Master AI Servo AF Control with Canon EOS 6D Mark II Tutorials

Master AI Servo AF Control with Canon EOS 6D Mark II Tutorials

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. AI Servo AF Control
   1. Custom Function 1: Tracking Sensitivity
   2. Custom Function 2: AI Servo AF Tracking
   3. Custom Function 3: AF Point Auto-Switching
3. Release Priority
   1. Custom Function 4: First Image Priority
   2. Custom Function 5: Second Image Priority
4. Other Custom Functions
   1. Custom Function 6: AF Assist Beam
   2. Custom Function 7: Lens AF Drive
5. Conclusion

Article

AI Servo AF Control

When it comes to autofocus control, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II offers extensive options. In this tutorial, we will dive deep into the custom functions menu to explore the AI Servo AF capabilities of the camera. If You are familiar with higher-end Canon cameras like the 5DS or 7D Mark II, you will recognize many of these functions. However, if you are transitioning from an older EOS DSLR or an entry-level camera, this guide will provide you with valuable information.

Custom Function 1: Tracking Sensitivity

The first custom function we will discuss is tracking sensitivity. This function determines how the camera reacts to sudden changes in focus during continuous tracking. By default, the camera provides a small cushion of time to allow you to find your subject again if an obstruction briefly interrupts the tracking. However, you can adjust the tracking sensitivity to give yourself more time (Locked On setting) or to Refocus immediately on any new subject (Responsive setting).

Custom Function 2: AI Servo AF Tracking

Excel D cell tracking, covered by custom function 2, instructs the servo focusing system on what Type of movement to expect from the subject. At the default zero setting, the system anticipates relatively continuous and steady movement. This setting works well for subjects that maintain a constant speed, such as a person walking or a Formula One racecar. However, if you are photographing wildlife or sports where the action starts and stops or varies in speed, you can set the tracking to plus one or plus two. This adjustment allows the AI Servo AF to react quickly to changes in subject speed.

Custom Function 3: AF Point Auto-Switching

If you are using an AF area setting with multiple focusing points, custom function 3, AF point auto-switching, comes into play. The camera automatically switches the focus points when necessary, Based on the selected AF area mode (automatic point selection, large zone AF, or zone AF). By default, the camera smoothly transitions from one focus point to another when a subject moves across the frame. However, you can speed up the switching action by selecting the plus one or plus two setting.

Release Priority

Next, let's explore the custom functions related to release priority. These functions determine how quickly the camera fires the shutter.

Custom Function 4: First Image Priority

Custom function 4, first image priority, determines whether the camera fires the shutter immediately when you fully press the shutter button, or if it allows time for the focusing system to confirm sharp focus. The default setting provides a cushion of time to ensure sharpness. However, you can adjust it towards release priority to expedite the shutter release, or towards focus priority to ensure that the first shot is as sharp as possible, even if it means waiting a bit longer for the camera to fire.

Custom Function 5: Second Image Priority

Contrary to its name, custom function 5, second image priority, focuses on continuous shooting. It controls the rate at which the camera fires in a continuous sequence after the first shot. If you require the fastest frame rate possible, the camera can fire at a rapid pace. However, if you want to maintain focus accuracy between shots, you can set it to slow down, allowing the AI Servo AF more time to confirm sharp focus.

Other Custom Functions

While the previous functions primarily focused on AI Servo operations, there are two additional custom functions that relate to autofocus:

Custom Function 6: AF Assist Beam

Custom function 6 deals with the AF assist beam when using a speed light in one-shot autofocus. It allows you to control whether the camera emits the AF assist beam or simply alerts you in the viewfinder when it can't achieve focus.

Custom Function 7: Lens AF Drive

Custom function 7 determines the behavior of the lens's autofocus drive during focusing. If you are focusing on a subject that is too close or lacks Detail, you can specify whether the AF system should continuously drive the lens to find focus or notify you when it can't achieve focus.

Conclusion

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II offers a range of custom functions that allow you to fine-tune your autofocus system to match specific shooting situations. Whether you are capturing fast-moving action or dealing with challenging subjects, these functions provide the flexibility to achieve precise focus. As you become more familiar with your camera and encounter various shooting scenarios, don't hesitate to explore and experiment with these custom functions to unleash the full potential of the EOS 6D Mark II.

Highlights

• Extensive autofocus control options on the Canon EOS 6D Mark II
• Transitioning from older EOS DSLRs or entry-level cameras? This guide is for you!
• Custom Function 1: Tracking Sensitivity - Adjust how the camera reacts to sudden changes in focus
• Custom Function 2: AI Servo AF Tracking - Fine-tune the focus system's response to subject movement
• Custom Function 3: AF Point Auto-Switching - Control the switching of focus points in multi-point AF
• Custom Function 4: First Image Priority - Choose between immediate shutter release or focusing confirmation
• Custom Function 5: Second Image Priority - Balance burst speed with focus accuracy in continuous shooting
• Custom Function 6: AF Assist Beam - Manage the use of the AF assist beam with a speedlight
• Custom Function 7: Lens AF Drive - Decide how the AF system handles difficult focusing situations
• Fine-tuning your autofocus system for better results with challenging subjects

FAQ

Q: Are these custom functions exclusive to the EOS 6D Mark II? A: No, many of these custom functions are present on higher-end Canon cameras, but they can also be found on the EOS 6D Mark II.

Q: Can I reset the custom functions to their default settings? A: Yes, the camera provides an option to reset all custom functions to their factory default settings.

Q: How do I access the custom functions menu on the camera? A: To access the custom functions menu, go to the camera's menu, navigate to the "Custom Functions" tab, and select the desired function.

Q: Can I use these custom functions with any lens? A: Yes, these custom functions are applicable regardless of the lens you are using on the EOS 6D Mark II.

Q: Is it necessary to adjust these custom functions for everyday photography? A: For most everyday photography situations, the default custom function settings should suffice. However, adjusting them can enhance your focus performance in specific shooting scenarios.