Autofocus (AF) enables the camera to focus on the subject automatically. This feature is standard on most digital cameras. Multiple AF methods are available, and supported modes vary by camera model. Select the appropriate mode based on your shooting scene or subject.

Autofocus Modes

This section describes AF modes for the Alpha series cameras. AF-S and AF-C are the two primary autofocus modes, featuring different focus behaviors after half-pressing the shutter button.

AF-S (Single-Shot Autofocus)

Autofocus activates upon half-pressing the shutter button. Once the subject is in focus, the focus locks. This mode is ideal for stationary subjects such as landscapes and snapshots.

AF-C (Continuous Autofocus)

Autofocus runs continuously while the shutter button is half-pressed, with constant focus adjustments. It suits moving subjects, including sports events and railway photography.

AF-A (Auto AF)

When the shutter button is half-pressed, the camera automatically detects whether the subject is moving and switches between AF-S and AF-C accordingly. Use this mode when shooting multiple subjects or to avoid manually toggling AF modes.

Direct Manual Focus (DMF)

You can fine-tune focus manually after autofocus completes. This achieves faster subject focusing compared to starting entirely with manual focus, and it is especially convenient for macro shooting.

Manual Focus (MF)

Manual Focus (MF) allows photographers to adjust focus manually instead of relying on the camera’s automatic control.

Autofocus (AF) shooting is prevalent on digital cameras, yet MF performs well in scenarios where autofocus struggles, such as macro photography. In MF mode, adjust the focus position by rotating the focus ring on the lens. Refer to your camera’s guide or manual for instructions on switching to MF and detailed operations.

The image above shows the SEL24105G lens, with Section A marking the lens focus ring. When the camera is set to MF mode, rotate this ring to adjust focus manually.

The sample photo above is captured with the SAL50M28 macro lens. The focus lands on the water drop in the front left, with heavy defocus on both foreground and background. MF is recommended when precise focusing on a tiny area is required, as shown in this example. MF also works when autofocus fails to achieve your intended focus position.

Focus Magnifier and MF Assist

When shooting in Manual Focus (MF), Focus Magnifier and MF Assist help verify sharp focus on the subject. Availability and detailed functionality differ across camera models. Some devices support only one of these features, which magnifies the target focusing area for fine manual focus adjustment. Consult your camera user manual for supported features and configuration details.

By assigning Focus Magnifier and MF Assist to custom buttons, the focus magnification duration can be set to [Unlimited], which is practical for tripod-based macro photography and astrophotography.

Peaking Function

The Peaking Function highlights edges within the focused area during MF or DMF shooting. It overlays color on focused regions for easier visual confirmation, and users may select the display color.