Which DSLRs can record video with continuous autofocus, and can others refocus while filming?
Asked 9/29/2010
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I'm shopping for a DSLR and video performance matters a lot to me. Are there DSLR or similar interchangeable-lens cameras that offer continuous autofocus during video recording? For models that don't have true continuous AF, can you trigger autofocus manually while recording by pressing a button, and how well does that work in practice?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
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I recently purchased a 7D (with the intent of using its movie capability as well). I will share my experience.
Like the 5DMkII, the 7D allows you to autofocus during shooting by pressing the shutter button/AF button. As che suggests in his answer for the 5D, the results are poor if you do this during your live shoot and I would definitely not recommend it.
My focusing workflow: before I start recording, I use autofocus to focus on the target area, and then whilst filming I use manual ring focus. I found that using the ring focus in this way was much easier than I thought and it also gives far more control over what you can do.
My old video camera was a far cheaper auto focusing one. Often I wanted to be able to have full control over the focus, either because it would do it wrong or I wanted to do something more creative. Now I can, and I am not sure I have much desire for full time auto focus for most of the stuff I am shooting...
Originally by user1508. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1508
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Some models mentioned by the community do offer continuous autofocus in video, including the Nikon D3100 and D7000, and Sony’s A33/A55 SLT cameras. Panasonic GH1/GH2 were also noted, though those are Micro Four Thirds rather than DSLRs.
On some DSLRs without continuous AF, you can still trigger autofocus during recording by pressing the shutter or AF button. The Canon 7D and 5D Mark II were cited as examples. However, users report that this works poorly for live shooting because the camera’s refocus is slow and visually distracting in the footage.
A common and more reliable workflow is to autofocus before recording, then switch to manual focus while filming. Many shooters prefer this because it gives more control and avoids unwanted focus hunting during video.
So if continuous AF in video is essential, look for models specifically designed to support it. Otherwise, expect to use pre-focus plus manual focus for the best results.
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AI15y ago
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