How To Use AF-On And Back Button Autofocus

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Try a better way to focus your DSLR! Using back button autofocus is a faster, easier, smarter way to get great AF results from your DSLR. This video will show you how AF modes work - and why decoupling autofocus from your shutter release can take your photography to a whole new level.
This method works both for camera with a dedicated AF-ON button or by reassigning a button on the back of your camera for autofocus.
Questions? See THIS PAGE:
www.backcountrygallery.com/pho...
NOTE #1: With newer Nikon cameras, VR activates when you press the Af-On button, with older models, it only activates with a half press of the shutter release.
NOTE #2: In order for this to work properly on a Nikon, you need to have your AF Priority Selection custom function set to "release", not to "focus". That is the default behavior for AF-C, so most won't have an issue. However, if your camera isn't firing when you focus, recompose, and shoot, that's probably why.
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[@RobertDuttonFineArt]

All this and more is contained in a great download pdf book by Steve in his latest book 'Secrets To The Nikon Autofocus System'. I've reached a part in the book were I'm nudged to this link to watch as back up what Steve has expertly written. You cannot ask for more customer 'focused" (pun intended) top class guidance by this well respected professional photographer. Thanks so much!

[@backcountrygallery]

Hi Robert - Thank you so much for the kinds words! I'm really glad you're enjoying the book and I appreciate your comments :)

[@rebekahlynnphotography2985]

enos218 - check out Steve's FAQ. I had the same issue and have the same camera as you. backcountrygallery.com/af-on-and-back-button-autofocus/ (first FAQ question answers your question).

[@maria.m_pe]

Hi Steve. I was looking for info about BBF and found your video and read you wrote a book. I'm still trying to figure out how using BBF would work in live music photography. I shoot rock concerts and never used BBF yet. I'm not quiet sure if it could help me or not, though I heard most music photographers use it. Could I find information about that in your book? Thanks

[@marilynottoy4616]

@@backcountrygallery hi I bought this book a while ago and never received the down load I think my email address wasn't right. I did email but did not get a reply. Can you help me get the auto focus download please. [e-mail]

[@backcountrygallery]

I'm very sorry about that. I just sent you an e-mail with your order info.

[@tenseigan3087]

FINALLY! After watching a bunch of tutorial about Back Button Autofocus, I finally understood how it works. Thumbs up to you sir!! Many many thanks!!

[@akashjoshi88]

Indeed...! Same experience here..!

[@HackingAxe]

Ditto

[@EireialCreations]

Same here, this guy explains it brilliantly! :)

[@sadbravesfan]

Same for me. Watched videos from several including Tony Northrup and Pierre McKinnon but was still confused on why it's better. I think they just over explained it while here he's just keeps it very simple.

[@desalvo55]

I'd been trying to understand why I have a AF-On button on the back of mu Lumix S1. Now I know!

[@andre-michelgoulet6933]

Every camera guy on KZbin tries to cover this concept... But here is one of the best explanations I have ever seen. Thanks, good show!

[@agneldsouza8484]

Totally agree with you!

[@phil1065]

Best back button AF explanation on youtube. Thanks for the info!

[@deanjones2525]

This is by far the best explanation of back-button focus I've had the pleasure of watching. It was clear, simple and a joy to listen to. Thank you so very much Steve.

[@MrYungComedy]

This is by far the best video that actually allowed me to understand what back focus is and how it works! Thank you so much!

[@Jabberwoc]

Thanks from the UK! Finally an AF back button video that made sense!!

[@lindabittner5496]

You're the first person that I was able to learn from in an effective manner. You speak well, good pace, real advice, practical tips...kudos!

[@prkravi]

There are tons of videos out there, on Back Button AF, and this one nailed it! With apt examples.

[@herminigildojakosalem8664]

Thanks! Best explanation of BBF I've ever watched/seen. Teach us more!

[@parsleylion6313]

this is (in my opinion) a fabulous video. Why? very good diction, very clear, very positive, (rehearsed?) concise, to the point, no waffle, no er, um, or other repetitions, good eye contact. It is well lit, well framed and you stand out against the background. Treating the viewer with respect, not condescending. Well done Steve, I enjoyed watching this, and of course, I have learnt a lot. Thankyou.

[@Laladeduh]

I am a pure beginner. This was the very first video on Auto-focus I watched, 2-3 months ago. The comments of others prompted me to purchase the ebook. After becoming fairly proficient with Steve's explanation and shooting hundreds of photos while practicing, I thought I'd try out the "old" method, just for the sake of knowing how. Holy Molly! I couldn't wrap my head around this half-click mode, switching between S and C modes, and trying to keep it all straight. Why isn't what Steve recommends the default way of shooting, is beyond me. Best 30 bucks I spent in this new hobby. (I'm in Canada so the book costs a little more.) Thank you Steve, the rest of your videos are on my to-view list. Great instructor!

[@backcountrygallery]

Wow - thank you so much!!

[@pappumurthy9462]

The best video on back button focus by far. I have seen many but never able to understand. But now I did. Thanks for the intermediate cartoons to explain how all this works plus the setting up basics.

[@Znine_Z9]

Cheers mate!! Best explanation to this feature on the web!

[@davidw5802]

the best explanation of why you should use back button autofocus, well done, great video.

[@amandajgillen]

I have been trying to learn about BBF all day long and have watched SO MANY videos and ready even more articles. Your video was BY FAR the most detailed and informative. I truly can not thank you enough!!

[@raviputcha]

There are many vids and articles out there on back button focusing but THIS one nails it. After watching this I'm not confused anymore. Thanks a lot for the time and effort you spent making this vid. Cheers!

[@Az-fotosDe]

"How To Use AF-On And Back Button Autofocus !" Excellent youtorial by Steve Perry. Thank you Steve ! best regards from cologne, andreas

[@Ionuteodorescu]

Beautiful explanation, perfect pace and intonation, good quality video and audio... For me it's a GO! 👏 Thank you.

[@catfish252]

Thanks Steve -- I had never heard about the AF-C mode and AF-On button press combination and how it works in conjunction with press and release for single focus with recompose and press and hold for continuous focus. That absolutely makes everything so much easier.

[@philwolsey]

Wonderfully lucid, economical tutorial. After reading multiple explanations and watching videos until they're coming out of my ears, this is the one that nails it. Thanks a million and I'm not even a Nikon user.

[@dsdigitalgallery2940]

Great job man. I was looking for such a tutorial all over the place. They way u explained was awesome. Thanks.

[@blb5111951]

Putting afa to afc was the key I missed in so many tutorials!

[@divs5123]

I've watched a few different videos to understand how the back button focus works and yours has been the most comprehensive. Thanks for creating this video

[@jj952]

Divya Paul

[@JJNSP3]

BEST video I have viewed (and that's over ten, watched multiple times) on the "real-life," how-to of this method. Thanks!

[@rickt.223]

Best explanation out there on the back button AF function. I enjoy your videos. Thanks Steve...

[@HagertyHigh]

Concept explained clearly. YEA!

[@IAMBRIDGEFORTH]

I just got a 7d m ii and I’ve been watching bb focus vids for 3days now and you’re the first person to thoroughly explain to where a somewhat beginner can understand. Liked, favorite and subbed!

[@alexandragodfrey5189]

Best descriptive video I have found so far, to help me properly understand the depths of these settings for my Nikon! SO HELPFUL

[@cvcalex1]

Thanks for walking us through this so clearly.

[@ahurtig3719]

Awesome and thanks Steve......great instructional video and now I am in the know for Back Button AF on my Nikon d7100

[@steveross2786]

Am a total novice had a Nikon Camera for 1 week these videos are really simple and informative for a beginner keep up the good work . Thanks

[@michaeldl49]

Nice tutorial. In addition to AF-ON back button autofocus, I assign the shutter release button to AE/L on half press and lock the exposure on my D800E separating focus and exposure. Works great.

[@kellievans4166]

oh my god - I finally get it! Thank You!

[@defenseengineer6485]

This is one of if not the best photography video tutorials. The information is incredibly useful, it's presented in a easy to understand manner, and it's a professional quality video. Well done, sir! Mahalo!

[@Dominguezucv]

I just wanted to say THANK you for taking part of your time and doing this videos. They are amazing and very very helpful.

[@lizthacker4495]

Just got my D750 and its so easy using this method. I had watched many videos about this but your guide was by far the easiest to follow. Thanks

[@jazzman1626]

Aha! I tried this before on my D3200 which does not have a dedicated AF-On button. But I did not know that I had to switch auto focus mode to AF-C . Thank you for so clearly explaining this method. I will give it another go.

[@PhilStein]

dude this is huge, thanks so much! even more important in movie mode where shutter focus is a complete design flaw.

[@libraw.173]

Will try

[@DigbyPixels]

Very clear and concise instructions and a really helpful tip. I have been using auto-focus since it was invented (looooong time) and never thought to switch from the shutter release to the AF-On button. Will definitely try this out - sounds promising.

[@Luigiz28]

This is hands down the best explanation of back auto focus. I've recently switched over and I like it way better. Awesome video!

[@AlanKSportsHawaii]

Great knowledge, thanks Steve. I'm a old timer always depressing half way and going give it a try. I always cover action sports and will check your style out. I do lose some shots, but will try your idea's.

[@bullsharkreef]

Wow, why didn't I learn about this 10 years ago? Thank you for sharing.

[@libraw.173]

Same feeling

[@GregLewisUT]

By far the best explanation I've seen on KZbin of why to use back button focus and how to use it with continuous focus. Thank you.

[@anvar221603]

By far the best explanation of the Back Button Focus method I have seen. Many thanks Steve.

[@jwgfoto5419]

I tried it and hated it. Then after watching one of your videos I tried again and stuck with it ever since. So don't try it just once and give up. Try it again if you don't like it the first time. It is great!

[@dennisamos-sam7367]

Thank you!

[@starvingweasel2222]

Yes, first explanation of back button focus that made sense!

[@castironwood]

Thank you Mr. Perry! I bought your book Secrets To The Nikon Autofocus System last night and am now getting my head wrapped around the auto focus on a few of my Nikon cameras. Your information delivery system is concise and easy to follow. My new best friend is the BBAF. Good job

[@SuperRatfink]

You did an excellent job on explaining this. Thank you

[@Acadien56]

Thanks Steve! You made it easy to understand why I should not go back to the standard technique for acquiring focus. I am just starting out with wildlife photography and this makes so much sense for so many reasons. Again, thanks so much!

[@seabreezeof]

No why your tutorial on BBF is the best, because you explain the mechanics. Example press and release to lock focus, or keep pressed for continuous focus. Every other video out there on the subject just explains what BBF is, and how it works.I do have one question, when you continuous focus, do you keep it depressed, when you press the shutter button, or do you release as you press the shutter button.

[@coalakida]

Making the change, thank you, for those using the Canon 70D a quick way to turn off the half shutter focus is to be in P or M and use the Q menu button and to right is the change controls , the first one its highlights is the change half shutter focus and change it to meter only, And Bam your ready to learn a new trick .

[@maijo2597]

There are many videos on You Tube about back button focus, but this is one of the best, if not the best, that I have seen. Very clear explanation of why to use it and how to use it. I like the comment at the end; "When you are getting used to it, practice on some shots that don't matter that much to you". Sound advice! Many thanks for this really helpful video.

[@69tubeB]

Steve thanks a lot for explaining such confusing matter so clearly. I have gone through the D800 user manual so many times but never realize the proper use of AF-ON button. While watching you video I have changed my camera Focus setting to AF-C and AF Activation OFF, now it is working correctly. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@secksy77]

Hi Steve. Thanks for this awesome tip. Works great on my D5100. Steve when you use this method with moving subjects, do you find better results using single point AF or something like dynamic area AF? Many thanks Andrew

[@backcountrygallery]

Andrew Seck Hi Andrew - LOL - I just made a video all about what modes to use! It's brand new, posted a couple minutes ago: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lX_Ck62ef6Z-o9U

[@secksy77]

Steve Perry A case of great timing. :-) From Australia, thanks again Steve

[@MaxRiley]

great explanation, thanks. just one question please: once I reassign the back button to work as af-on, how do I AE lock? just not possible or...? thanks

[@lylestavast7652]

what particular camera ? There's usually something under controls in the menu where you can assign the function to a different button - maybe the depth of field button under the middle finger, on the front for instance. I have two buttons on my d700 - I use AF-ON for setup for the focus as Steve does it, and I assign the AE-L/AF-L to be AE and keep it locked until I press it again - quick one button AE lock for many frames if needed and thumb then works the AF-ON for BBF. My d750 I use the DOF preview button on the front for AE Lock and the single AF-ON for the BBF. BBF is my BFF. :)

[@kukrejasanjay]

@@lylestavast7652 how do we assign this on bodies like d5300, where we have got only one button which is assigned to BBF ..how do we lock exposure then ??

[@mikepelliccia7158]

Great video Steve.Thank you for reminding us that one must set the camera to AF continuous before assigning the AE-L /AF-L to AF-ON for back button focus

[@caribeno188]

Great explanation. Out of all of the videos I have watched related to this topic, yours is by far the best one. Keep it up !

[@Sean_Coyne]

Added: I ran into some problems on my D7200 using the AE-L/AF-L back button for autofocus. I have to use my left eye on the viewfinder, as I cannot close only my left eye (I have the same problem aiming a rifle). Also, I have a mild cataract on my right eye, so it's not as sharp or bright. With my left eye on the viewfinder, I found that this layout was too cramped and uncomfortable for me on the D7200, trying to use that back button for focus. I then switched to using the lower front Fn button with my right ring finger, and the problem was solved. Any left eye shooters may want to try this alternative, as it works just as easily.

[@GernotWinklerMD]

Sean Coyne I'm an ophthalmologist. Get cataract surgery!! Seriously.

[@Sean_Coyne]

Thanks for your concern. My ophthalmologist is monitoring it and I will probably get it fixed after summer here. I don't want to be out of action flying RC planes during the good weather. I'll also get my hip replaced then too. Getting old has it's drawbacks, but not compared to the alternative. ;-)

[@donrumsey816]

does this negate the AE lock function (d7100)? upon further investigation I've RE-Assigned my Pre-View button to perform the AE-Lock function. Steve, as a suggestion for future videos: 1) Pre-View function - why/how/when to use 2) AE-Lock feature why/how/when to use

[@vk4vsp]

As a lot of other people have said, there are plenty of videos out there that tell you how to set your camera for BBF, but this is the only one that explains what it does and how you actually use it. Thanks for that.

[@tonyvid3148]

Omg! Why have I never heard of? I'm love. I watched you video and tried it in my house on my dog, and I fell in love instantly

[@williamriach2261]

Best explanation. You clearly explain how to switch from One Shot to AI Servo - something every other video I watched did not demonstrate. THANK YOU!!!

[@raquelcook51]

Mind BLOWN! Lol! I have been doing photography for years and have just recently come across this. Great tutorial, even though I shoot with a Canon. I really just needed to see/hear/watch someone explain this to me rather than reading it from the manual. Thanks!!

[@BVRainer]

Thank you. This episode has proven to be one of the most helpful I've watched on You Tube. After I got used to the back button auto focus format, it's been great.

[@xman2229]

I have to say, your videos are the best. I like your direct, concise, no nonsense style.Most others are either screaming at you (we're NOT deaf) or LOVE to hear themselves talk so it becomes a rambling, superfluous, verbose delivery that bores me to tears. Keep up the good work.I bought your wildlife book.

[@P_Anthony876]

I am a amateur photographer, thanks for all the lessons you gave. I tried back button AF, went back to shutter, watched your video again. All my cameras are now set to back button AF. I am a nikon shooter. Thanks again, Steve.

[@cindyblacklock9764]

This is the best explanation, by far, that I have heard. Thank you for your clear and concise tutorials. They have been a great help to me.

[@TonyPhillips]

That was the best and most thorough explanation of BBAF I have ever heard, I have been meaning to switch over to this method for years but never really understood it, so just never did. I am definitely giving it a try now.

[@yourt00bz]

Been shooting 30 years - even early adopter digital. But your easy style and comprehensive no assumptions no nonsense writing persuaded me to try this , subscribe etc thanks KZbin algorithm

[@minervahammond2754]

life saver. very thorough and easy to understand, unlike many explanations I've read

[@n1k1george]

You are so right about the versatility of using back button AF. It is the way to go - the best of both Single and Continuous worlds in one button. My AF frustrations of always being set to the wrong AF mode are over.

[@Mr_Spock512]

I started using this method a few days ago ... man, what a difference it makes. Wish I had found this video a few years ago. I'm also experimenting with assigning the AE-L(Auto-Exposure Lock) function to the Preview button on the front of my D7100.

[@amylouisesmithart]

🎉 Thank you for this! I went out today and was trying bbf. I was little frustrated with how it was working, so I watched some videos when I got home. Yours is the best! I didn’t have my focus mode set to AF-C. Oh! In your video you described exactly what how I was wanting it to work, then you showed me how to use it! Thank you. Many videos show how to change the menu, but not the how to use it. Awesome.

[@MikeCambpell]

Thanks!!!! This has to be the best explanation of BBF that I have seen out there. Great video!!

[@Iris421989]

this is great. perfect video. no extraneous information, straight to the point, quick guide on how to set it up. examples of how it works and why you want it. great

[@martinfinnerty3344]

I have watched a bunch of you tube videos on back button focus, and this is the only one that made any sense. Cheers Steve.

[@AllorNone23]

I'm a "newish" photographer and this is the best tip I've received yet! The first time I tried it it felt completely natural. Thanks!

[@davidessery2629]

A very good video explaining back button focus, I have been using this button recently and find it much easier but kept forgetting that I had set it up over shutter button and wondered why the camera wouldn't focus,but like it better now so will stay with it.

[@TharakeshKrishnan]

Crisp, clean. Explanation cant get better than this. You nailed it.

[@noasamoa]

I checked this out a few months ago and switched my camera over. After Steve's little warning at the end of this video, I was certain I was going to find back button focus annoying and challenging to get used to. Well...nope! I LOVE shooting this way. It took me all of 30 minutes to get used to and I cannot imagine switching back to the default shutter release method. So clearly explained from concept to actually setting up your camera to make it happen. Thanks for such a clear, smart tutorial!

[@xg__garbled]

this is the best COMPLETE explanation i have found for this topic. clear, concise, and on point. thank you so much!!

[@alirezanajafian]

You’re an awesome teacher who explains complex questions with simple answers!

[@michaeldaystarstewart8895]

Thank you Steve for your great teaching skills about photography. My keeper rate has improved greatly after practice using Back Button auto focus and reading your ebooks. God bless you!

[@denissharp2307]

A few people have tried to explain this to me, this is the best explanation on the web...thank you !

[@BK-bh6jr]

Its been more than 3 years to have purchased Nikon D750. I have gone through a lot of tutorial and tips video. But the ease of using through your said tricks are so simple after being customized to really shoot. Thanks a lot. To me, your channel is the best channel for twists and tweaks of setting for Dslr till now

[@janlasalle8845]

I just started using this method and really liked it. I did a shoot on a stationary dancer subject and because there was no contrast my af had trouble focusing so I focused on a close edge and re composed...I had to do this over and over as we were working on a demonstration manual...it was driving me nuts so I was determined to try this much better way and the job was so much easier,,,I was at f 11 so even if the subject moved a bit it worked out fine...I want to keep practicing this method and will give it a go at a dance performance...love these tricks! Thank you for the clarity of your teaching!

[@sweetblueman]

Thank you. Your education on camera functions are awesome..

[@aretasartchannel5169]

Hoooray!! Finally, an explanation of the function that makes sense - to me. I have watched many on this topic. Your graphics gave a good demo. thanks

[@tomelifeisjustonebig]

Awesome. This is the best explanation of why to do it, when to use it and HOW to use it. Bravo.

[@artbymasimartas.2891]

Four years later, but now I am watching this video for the first time to understand my new a7riii, and it's still amazing!! I watched another videos trying to explain the back button focus and I didn't understand it totally. Now I do it, I understand how it works and I can see why is it so interesting! Thanks so much! I will practice with it for the next weeks :)!

[@PilgrimofIthilien]

Very clear explanation, and excited to try this out! Thanks!

[@eyewaves...]

Best explanations about back button focusing... You made it Cristal clear with those great examples. Thank you.

[@Firefromthenorth]

Thank you so much. This is the first time I have been able to understand Back Button autofocus. Looking forward to trying it out now.

[@travelsphotographywithmike6812]

Thanks so much for the awesome tips, Steve. I am liking the back button focus more and more now !! Merry Christmas from Georgia!

[@Ronin760]

Perhaps the best explanation for BBF. Good relevant examples. Thanks!

[@cristianmitran]

I agree with you, Steve, Back button AF is great. I can't imagine to have the AF ever set on shutter again since years.

[@nikkikeldsen4246]

Thank you! This just solved the problem of my AF in my D7100 not working at all! This is perfect! And this seems like I’ll get much better/sharper images in the long run. Thank you!

[@dvdexpert]

Thank you so much for this. I often link to this video to explain back button autofocus to others. Yesterday I provided this link to a deaf person who couldn't get the most out of this video. I wanted to pass the request to have this captioned up the ladder to you.