Back Button Focus on Steroids! Only on Canon EOS 5D Mark IV - 12 Back Button Focus Options!

You've heard about back button focus - and maybe you've used it, but this is the BBF on steroids! 12x that is!
Call me crazy, but this one feature has just sent me over the moon with excitement. Sure, there was customization available on the 5D3 and Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and Canon EOS 7D Mark II and others, but this is just brilliant.
Now, just to set the playing field level, wouldn't it be great if Canon put even more innovation into the menu system? Maybe a GUI like Android or iOS? :)
If you're looking to buy - here's the B&H Link: planet5d.com/5D4
TallyWacker's full menu video: photography-on-the.net/forum/s...
This is a common question and I should have explained better in the video. Sorry.
IF you have the shutter set to Meter and AF, then to use the BBF on say the AF-On button, you have to HOLD the AF-On button (or * as you mentioned) which will override the settings on the shutter button because you pressed (and held it) first. The shutter button only activates the shutter at this point.
So if you want to be able to truly use the BBF and not have to hold the buttons down continuously, you definitely want to set the shutter button to metering only.

[@vflack4733]

I just bought a Canon 5d Mark IV and the set up was different from the 6d Mark II I previously owned, so was looking for a video showing me how to set up Back Button options. Followed this man's advice and set up my camera like he explained. On the 6d Mark II I could set up the smaller button next to the shutter button to do Auto Focus, but not on the 5d IV. After setting up the 5d IV as the video suggested, I just went out and took a bunch of pics. Wow, great advice and easy to switch some of the options if you are out and about. Thank you for video.

[@BrandonColePhotography]

Man, this is awesome. You never know what erractic movements you will run into. This is great.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thanks! Yes, it is a real blessing to be able to select different modes depending on the situation. The hardest part for me is still remembering how I have my settings LOL. There are now so many to remember!

[@javireyesnespral]

I've just upgraded from a 7D mk II to a 5d mk IV and I've been using the focus Ai servo button assign for two years. This tutorial that you have shared is fantastic!!!! A great upgrade to my shoot style. Now I don`t have to worry if something unexpected comes into scene. Thanks!!!!!

[@mitchaunger]

I'm so glad I could help!

[@scottabergermd]

One of the best most epic tutorials I have ever seen anywhere about anything. Canon should pay you for this!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you for your kind words! From your lips to Canon's ears :)

[@scotta.bergerm.d.1363]

I do have one question, if I may...since you have your shutter release button set to both focus and meter, even if you use say the AF-on button to focus the way you have it set, doesn't pressing the shutter release button again cause the camera to refocus again in a single point manner?

[@thankyoupagemagic8484]

Great question - That's why I made this comment in the description, but who reads descriptions? HAHA Not me... IF you have the shutter set to Meter and AF, then to use the BBF on say the AF-On button, you have to HOLD the AF-On button (or * ) which will override the settings on the shutter button because you pressed (and held it) first. The shutter button only activates the shutter at this point.

[@petitwhite6366]

just don't half press the shutter button so it won't refocus.

[@shesaidyesweddingfilmphoto5609]

Helpful and informative. I use these focus buttons for wedding photography. Priceless. First kiss - AF single spot single focus then shutter shutter... The couple starts walking up the aisle - hold STAR button expanded focus point and AI SERVO with shutter spam again.

[@j.adanga9787]

That's great. I knew about the custom mapping, but it's great to realise the Mark IV brings those extra levels of customisation. Really makes the instrument a versatile photographer's tool. Thankyou.

[@alyssaraney6863]

I can't help but smile when I watch this. So awesome! The info is exciting but just your excitement alone makes this video worth watching! Thanks for the smiles.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Wow, you've just made my day! Thank you for making time to reach out and make me smile as well.

[@russeli1941]

Okay, I want you to be the teacher dude for all things Canon 5D Mark iv! With you, I don't drift off to lala land then have to rewind to get what I missed. You really kept my attention! Thanks for this!!!

[@Sergei__v]

This is what makes a 5dmk4 a true pro camera, designed for the working photographer. I wish Canon highlighted these awesome updates. It is truly remarkable how well canon knows their customers.

[@lynnm8081]

Thanks for the menu screen behind. Makes it so much easier.

[@cocatezz]

This is the best tip about this camera I have discovered so far!!!! So many possibilities!!!! Now I don’t have to be so intimidated by so many autofocus points that I’ve always wanted to use and so many other autofocus settings!! Thank you, thank you, thank you kind sir!!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Glad it was helpful!

[@meeteshtaneja]

Thank you for this valuable tutorial, this answers so many worries!

[@geesnapz52]

Thanks for your video. Moving up (waaaay up!) from a 6D, there is a lot to learn, espcially with all the AF menus. This was very helpful. One scenario I've been unable to solve is doing the "pre-focus then recompose" situation you mentioned at the beginning, but while in AI Servo mode. It's easy in One Shot Mode. Imagine a sprinter crouched in the starting blocks waiting for the gun. Pre-focus on him with the center point, then recompose, putting him towards the edge of the frame but still being covered by several focus points. When I recompose in AI Servo, the focus loses lock on the subject, even when having all focus points active.

[@spectremanLIVE1]

I enjoyed your enthusiasm. I'm excited about it too and am totally sold on making the 5D Mark IV my first full frame body. Thanks.

[@TomHamRomero]

So good. When I first bought my d5 4 a few months ago I tried watching this and it just went over my head, now it just went right in. This camera is MAD. Totally love it and it's unreal how much stuff it can do

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Great to hear @tom!

[@davidnaylor83]

I have had my 7D2 for maybe two or three years now. I thought I had gone through every single setting, but I had never seen this!! Mind blown, as you said! I only wish I could make it switch drive modes too when shifting to AI Servo, that would really perfect this feature!

[@Luuniem87]

Your enthusiam is the best!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you! I know some people aren't fond of it (my kids LOL), but that's just me :)

[@mehtaresponsible]

This is the first video about the camera where I learnt some new feature about this beauty. Rest all either repeat same old specs and others just keep cursing it for not being a 4K video camera. Thanks for sharing this interesting piece of information. Definitely getting my copy!!

[@TheCelluloseKid]

Oh yeah Mitch, I share excitement. Your enthusiasm is completely understandable. One more solid reason to get the IV.

[@drbubble33]

Very useful button options. I've been using this set up on my 1D bodies for years. Glad Canon finally brought it to lower trim bodies.

[@ksan7999]

Thank you so much for this wonderful video! I am getting into pet photography and my dog moves so much and I always miss focus. I am so happy to have discovered your video, Now I am going to play around with the settings!

[@crispaullopez8037]

i saw a lot of video, but this is literally amazing!

[@tremaincheerful4189]

My 7Dmark2 has this great function also. I did not discover this until seeing your video.

[@MarttiSuomivuori]

This setup solved the problem I had: Whenever somebody else tries to take pictures with a back focus camera, they get blurry pictures. Now they have a fair chance. Now I have to try this with the Tamron zoom, if I get faster and exact focus using AE-Servo to get the focus so about there and then nail it with the spot.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

Thanks for this. I just got my 5D4 and am trying to get a grasp on all the settings.

[@MC50000]

Great tips, I had missed the extra options via the info button so thanks for that, very happy with the iv now, have also subscribed hoping you will give us more great tips. cheers from the UK.

[@azeronephoto8755]

I was just as excited as you were by the end of this video, THANKS FOR THE GREAT INFO!!!

[@leelynch230]

Also available on 5Ds, just hooked my focus up with this great feature. Thanks

[@giulianocecatto5592]

I will try your settings tomorrow! Seems to be great! Thanks!

[@1701Starman]

Where do I get some of what he is on?

[@TomHamRomero]

Space Juice

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Well just stick around by subscribing, I've got plenty more :)

[@kit8072]

Thanks for the video, what a great idea! Having used BBF for years, the only drawback would be losing manual focus control. Like when shooting thru a chain link fence, or thru tree leaves framing a subject. But I may go back to dropping camera down to turn off auto focus, for the advantage of One Shot to Servo in an instant. Thanks again!

[@PeterNasello]

This is an awesome tip! I don't know why Canon reps don't bring this to our attention when giving an overview of a new camera

[@RobertoLicardie]

HOOOOLLY COW!!!! This is amazing! Tysm! This is killer especially for weddings and portraits sessions.

[@traumaj]

Ahhh man! this was super helpful! recently upgraded from a 70d and learning all about the 5d, full frame etc. Switching from shooting objects to birds etc will be so much easier with the back button focus now set to ai servo! Thanks for a great video explained so well. Subscribed! :)

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you for making time to comment - much appreciated!

[@omeshsingh8592]

I heard about this but didn't really understand what all the fuss was. HOLY COW it's awesome!

[@amartinro]

I customized my own focus settings using what you teach in this video, it's amazing!!! thank you thank you thank you

[@nirvanalks]

Sir, you just saved me from smashing my brand new 5d iv against the wall, for i couldn´t focus my lens on a single af point in the middle, i just wanted that, and even if english ain´t my main language, you explanation was enough clear to understand how AF works, thanks.

[@lifetimesofamultiplemediam1003]

I'm glad I found this video again, this is so mind blowing and powerful, yet many shooters I come across still don't know about it. I'm wondering if it will be possible on the new Canon RP, with the three custom modes. If so, that's reason enough to upgrade my M50.

[@adajonnie7487]

Thank you so much for this tutorial. I will use this for my 5Div.

[@eatpomegranate]

Man, I love your energy. This was really helpful.

[@genericuser77]

Great explanation Mitch! But...did you know that the 7DII introduced these very same capabilities and Custom Menu options two years ago! And the 5DS/5DSR also included them 1.5 years ago! I found that they were described "way back then" in the camera guide "Canon 7D Mark II Experience" and then also the similar 5DS/5DSR guide. (I imagine the new "Canon 5D Mark IV Experience" guide will cover it as well.) Another small note: when you are showing how to set the AF-ON Button to Case 1, and then also setting for "One Shot," there is no need to actually set it for Case 1, because the Cases don't apply unless you are using "AI Servo." So the "AI Servo AF Characteristic" option should really have just been left blank there, in order to avoid confusion. The "Switch to Registered AF Function option" is basically the same as you demonstrated, but it could use a little explanation to show how instead of assigning a Case, you have to basically "recreate" a Case by manually choosing those settings (Tracking Sensitivity, Acel/Decel Tracking, AF Pt Auto Switching). Plus the "Switch to Registered" option enables you to register additional AF settings and shooting settings BUT doesn't allow you to select AI Servo vs One Shot. It is an odd limitation and inconsistency, where Canon should simply allow you to use any of these buttons to assign a wide variety of settings, rather than offering you two different, and differently limited options, of the "Metering and AF Start" option you are showing vs. the "Switch to Registered AF" option.

[@markham56]

Thanks for the tips! I just realized I needed this flexibility.

[@ettodk]

Great video, you are a super fun and smart person with lots of good tricks for my new IV👍😊

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Hey +Charlotte - thank you so much for making the time to let me know it helped. I'm psyched you enjoyed my passion for this one :)

[@Multidoogan2]

Superb! What a difference this will make! Thank you.

[@asketchylady7220]

Just like that "bingo bango" I have learned something helpful. Thank you

[@feridunkizgin3636]

Finally someone can explain very well !! Thanks again !!

[@htb868]

Thanks for making this so easy to understand ... GOT IT and absolutely awesome ...

[@cristianmihaila]

Beside the info in the video, I really like your enthusiasm :) Awesome!

[@nynty5]

What a great video! Guess what! I check my 5DSr and it has the same settings!!!! Just programmed it. Thank you so very much!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you so much for making time to say something so nice!

[@GaryBonar]

You my friend are simply my new hero!!!! This vid is tremendous!!! Hats off sir!

[@kieran6419]

FYI - This was also possible using the 5dmk3. You lack the ability to assign specific AF cases to the buttons but you could still do spot/zone focusing using Shutter/AF-ON and then when combined with DOF preview setup as Servo/Single Shot you have the ability to also track or not. It's not a widely known feature and it was never documented in any canon manuals. Google it though and you will see that it is possible.

[@webvamsi555]

Love the tutorial, very nice and friendly.

[@shahwaqas216]

simply awesome. solved my issue while wedding photography

[@josephjackson7351]

You little beauty, i have found out my Canon 7D Mark 2 has the same setting, for someone like me who shoots birds and wildlife this is fantastic, Thank you, great video.

[@ajschot]

This is an amazing feature! I heard something aboud switching between AI Servo and One Shot but that was on my 6D alteady but this is amazing!

[@shornby]

Bravo! Excellent find. Excellent tutorial. Many thanks!

[@scotta.bergerm.d.1363]

Amazing tutorial thank you. I just rented a 5D mark iv to see if I wanted to switch from Nikon D810. Your tutorial may make my decision a reality.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you for your kindness. Smart move renting before buying! You can always reward me by using my B&H or Amazon link :) -- planet5d.com/bh or planet5d.com/amazon

[@johnbivins]

Great video, had Back button set for my 5d m2 but it was a pain to figure on the 5d iv

[@karissagrantham6142]

you rock!! I love this!! Thanks. I'm just as excited as you are. :)

[@lorianadur9716]

hey mitch, you are a really good entertainer! i love your positive energy ! and thanks for these great hints

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thanks for the kind words :)

[@heinzebakedbeanz]

Mitch, you are awesome!

[@bernielowry4499]

Thank you so much for the information you just made my day.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

My pleasure - and thanks for making time to comment (and hopefully subscribe :)

[@Just-SomeGuy]

Not sure your settings would work for me, but the variety of options is good. I prefer to use the shutter button for exposure lock, as the focus point might be a really bright area which would throw off the metering. I don't always want to take my exposure in the same place as I focus. Personally, I use exposure lock for the shutter button, BBF and then I have the DOF button for AI servo on or off. Changing the focus points mode isn't that difficult, I just press the top right button on the back and then the small button to the left of the shutter button to cycle through focus point modes. This is on a 5D3 as well no need for a 5D4. Not knocking your pointers though, everyone has different ways they like to use their camera.

[@colinleonard1487]

Thanks for your time on explaining these, thanks so much- Bingo bango indeed!

[@forsterl.stewart414]

pro grade cameras like the 7d mii, 5d miv,5ds,5Dsr,1dx,1dx mii and 1dx miii. All have this feature. Plus the depth of field preview may be used as well. Depth of Field preview button. Select the first option after you press SET. Here your options are limited. You can't control Ai servo or one shot, case numbers or breaking down focus points. But you can choose how the focus points are used in speed or tracking plus prioritise each one. So you can have quite a bit of control with this method. I find that I use one shot the most but servo comes in handy. And single focus points are more accurate as well as small clusters being faster at focus grabbing. Using the full auto focus cluster and all focus points is great when a erratic moving subject is in my viewfinder then this,what I call my "oh shit" switch can be very useful.

[@javiaea737]

Thanks Mitch! I´m going to try it right away

[@KevinSwan10200]

Thanks I am as excited as you were

[@kell_alves]

you helped me A LOT! Thanks so much!

[@marknicoll5893]

I use the back button mainly on my SL, just ordered a 5Dmkiv so this will be usefull thx

[@TheNewMexicoMan]

Mind blowing! Thank You!

[@smigielski.studio]

your enthusiasm is amazing!!! :)

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you - I'm so used to seeing negativity in the last weeks, I'm thankful you made the time to say something so positive. Bless you!

[@marcgosselin945]

thanks for the video! love your energy!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thanks +mark! (why oh why won't youtube let me mention people by name? Silly tool :)

[@davejames7981]

WTF this is amazing :O i have had mark iv since release never knew this !!!!!! thank you

[@GarryBurgess]

It's a big different on the 6D mark ii, but it still helped me customize a lot of this.

[@forsterl.stewart414]

What a character. Love your enthusiasm. I watched the whole thing I rarely watch these helpful videos. You could sell ice cream to Eskimos. Thanks for sharing.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

thank you for your kind words!

[@salvamando1]

Love the energy!

[@TDTIRPAN]

Thank you Mitc. Very very useful info.

[@sunbingms]

awesome. It's a really good idea, thanks for your share.

[@carolinajaramillomodelo]

thanks mitch!!! keep posting!! it was great

[@WindUpBird573]

This is terrific! Thanks!

[@nicks.7296]

That is so cool! Thank you for sharing!

[@AMEERICA12]

this is amazing!!! what a fantastic set of tips! also your energy is fantastic and i want to be your friend.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thank you so much!

[@lannynagler2916]

Correct me if I am wrong but if you leave the shutter button to do both focus and metering once you go to take the shot the camera will refocus. I would suggest that you set the shutter to metering only and focus with the AF On or the * button. I have been doing this with the 5D3 for a while. There is a new button on back of the 5D4 AF area selection which is what I thought you were referring to. As far as I can tell it acts like the multi function button but in s less awkward location.

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

I've updated the description to discuss the shutter button... but yes, it will refocus. For the back buttons, you need to hold them down if you're using focus on the shutter.

[@joshgeelen7596]

Thanks Mitch, I wish I had known this earlier.

[@ArvindVallabh]

Thanks for this info and had a question about setting a button as a Exposure Bracketing?

[@danielthomas7747]

Oh my god, I love your enthusiasm! Fantastic review. I have decided to follow you... I have a question , do we have face detection that allowed us to assign a button? Thank you...

[@kassner33]

For what it's worth, you can only customize focus in the way he describes with the af on button and the * button. Depth of field preview, for example lets you switch to servo mode, but that's it. Similarly, the new button, that diagonal one, can switch to servo mode, but that's it. In summary, you now have two buttons, af on and * that can be customized to make autofocus work exactly the way you want it to.

[@susmorvi]

WOW amazing love your energy!

[@rick535xi]

Thanks for all of this info...

[@paristo]

Interesting that Canon is closing that what Olympus did since 2008/2009 with MySets. And now with Custom Buttons 1-4. It is always interesting to learn when Canon does get things (like this with 7Dmk2).

[@Hellgap50]

Well I like that your helping everyone I’ve been hooked with back button focus going on 4 plus years it’s by far faster and better I’ve now watched your vid and several others about my new 5d iv and might do things slightly differnt in thecustom setting in my menu other than that ide like to ask one question if your using the 5 point expanded af point why not just use the star button as your focus button your metering stays on the shutter button reason why is when you release the star / being the focus button it then becomes single shot for static images just asking

[@jagvillsesolen7373]

Nice Camera so good

[@jamescampbell27]

If you leave both focus and metering on the shutter button won't the camera refocus when it is pressed to take the shot even after you set up BBF on the AF On or the * button.

[@Gdrama13]

Too many focus options, my head hurts. Great video👍🏼

[@johngerlach2493]

Hi Mitch! Great video and now I have my AF-On button and star button set up to autofocus using different focus patterns so I can switch to them quicker. I do have one question that is off-topic. I noticed you can show what appears on the LCD of your camera on the computer monitor. You mentioned what you were using, but I was not able to pick it up. Could you pass along what cord I need to be able to do this. Thanks so much and keep up the great work!!!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Company is called Aputure - it is a box with an HDMI cord. VConverter A810 is the name of the unit. Sadly, B&H says it is no longer available - but maybe you can find it somewhere... www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1114777-REG/aputure_v_converter_a810_v_converter_hdmi_extra_scope.html/BI/2975/KBID/3910

[@binumathew3436]

Superb dear brother

[@outdoortechtrekguy1029]

Great video :)

[@eitanlitner7207]

crazy funny dude.. love this video man

[@HeroPrinny]

Wow, this is crazy! Thanks!

[@ThankYouPageMagic]

Thanks for making time to comment

[@77.88.]

Thank you well understood.