Autofocus (AF) systems in modern cameras are far more advanced than they were a decade ago.
However, many photographers don’t take full advantage of them because they don’t fully understand the AF zones, AF points, and AF cross-sections.
What Are Autofocus Settings?
These three components dictate how your camera focuses on a subject, but they function differently. If you’ve ever struggled with autofocus photography—whether it’s getting sharp images of fast-moving subjects or ensuring the right part of the frame is in focus—understanding how to use autofocus correctly can make a huge difference.
I’ve worked with autofocus systems on DSLR and mirrorless cameras for years, and while every brand has its own terminology, the principles remain the same.
Let’s break down these autofocus settings in a way that’s practical and useful.
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What Are AF Points?
AF points are the individual focus areas within your camera’s viewfinder or LCD screen. They determine where your camera can lock focus within the frame.
Most modern cameras come with a variety of AF point configurations, ranging from 9 points on entry-level DSLRs to over 1000 on high-end mirrorless cameras.
The number and type of AF points available depend on your camera model and sensor technology.
How AF Points Work
Each AF point acts as a reference point for your camera’s autofocus system. When you half-press the shutter, the camera analyses these points to determine which one should lock focus.
The selected point will typically light up in your viewfinder, showing where the camera is focusing.
AF points come in two types:
- Single AF Points – Focuses on one precise area, useful for stationary subjects.
- Multiple AF Points – Covers a wider area, helping track moving subjects or improve focus accuracy in unpredictable conditions.
How to Select AF Points on Your Camera
Most DSLRs and mirrorless cameras allow you to manually choose an AF point or let the camera automatically select one.
Here’s how to manually select AF points:
- Switch to AF Point Selection Mode – On most cameras, press the AF point selection button (often marked with a square or dot icon).
- Use the Directional Pad or Joystick – Scroll through the available AF points to select the one you want to use.
- Confirm the Selection – Half-press the shutter to lock in the selected AF point.
- This method ensures that you have direct control over which part of your subject the camera focuses on, rather than letting the camera decide.
Understanding AF Zones
While AF points are individual focus areas, AF zones group multiple AF points together. This allows the camera to focus on a broader area rather than a single point, which is useful for subjects that don’t stay in one place.
Most cameras provide different AF zone modes, allowing you to adjust how much of the frame the autofocus system considers when locking focus.
Types of AF Zones
- Single-Point AF (or Spot AF) – Uses one AF point for precise focusing, ideal for portraits and still subjects.
- Zone AF (Small to Large Area) – Activates a group of AF points, useful for action photography where the subject moves unpredictably.
- Wide-Area AF (Full Frame Coverage) – Uses almost all AF points available, letting the camera select the best point automatically.
How to Use AF Zones Effectively
For Static Subjects (Portraits, Landscapes)
- Use Single-Point AF to focus on key details, like a person’s eyes.
- Ensure focus is locked before taking the shot.
For Moving Subjects (Sports, Wildlife, Events)
- Use Zone AF to allow some flexibility in where the focus locks.
- Consider Continuous Autofocus (AI Servo / AF-C) to track the subject as it moves.
For Unpredictable Action (Birds in Flight, Racing Cars)
- Enable Wide-Area AF to let the camera track movement across the frame.
- Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion.
Mastering how to use autofocus zones helps in situations where manual AF point selection is too slow to keep up with the subject’s movement.
What Are AF Cross Sections?
AF cross sections (also known as cross-type AF points) are a more advanced feature of modern autofocus systems.
Unlike standard AF points, cross-type points are more accurate because they detect contrast in both horizontal and vertical directions.
Why Are AF Cross Sections Important?
Standard AF points only detect contrast in one direction (either horizontal or vertical), making them less effective in some lighting or texture conditions.
Cross-type AF points detect contrast in two directions, increasing accuracy and speed.
Many high-end DSLRs and mirrorless cameras have a mix of standard AF points and cross-type AF points, with the central focus points often being the most sensitive.
How to Benefit from Cross-Type AF Points
For Maximum Focus Accuracy
- Use cross-type AF points when focusing on intricate details.
- In low light, rely on these points to get sharper focus.
For Fast-Moving Subjects
- Cameras with multiple cross-type points can track subjects more effectively.
- Sports and wildlife photographers benefit from using cameras with a high number of cross-type AF points.
For Better Low-Light Performance
- If struggling to focus in dim conditions, switch to a cross-type AF point (usually in the centre of the frame).
- Combine this with a wider aperture lens (e.g., F/2.8 or F/1.8) for improved focus response.
- Some advanced cameras also include dual cross-type AF points, which detect contrast in four directions, further improving accuracy.
How to Optimise Your Autofocus Settings for Different Photography Styles
Portrait Photography
- Use Single-Point AF to focus on the subject’s eyes.
- Choose a cross-type AF point for better precision.
Sports and Action Photography
- Use Zone AF or Wide-Area AF for tracking motion.
- Set Continuous AF (AF-C/AI Servo) to adjust focus in real-time.
Landscape and Architecture
- Use Single-Point AF with Live View focusing for the best sharpness.
- Switch to manual focus for fine adjustments, especially with a tripod.
Low-Light Photography
- Select cross-type AF points for better accuracy.
- Increase ISO sensitivity to help the autofocus system lock on faster.
Final Thoughts
Understanding AF points, AF zones, and AF cross sections allows you to take full advantage of your camera’s autofocus system.
While modern cameras offer advanced autofocus photography features, knowing how to use autofocus settings effectively ensures better results in any situation.
By selecting the right AF points, using the correct AF zone mode, and leveraging cross-type AF sections, you’ll gain greater control over focus accuracy—whether you’re shooting portraits, action, or landscapes.
