5D Mk IV – EF 70-200mm f/2.8L II – 1/200, f/4, ISO 100

I continued today with working on understanding the complexities of the 5D autofocus system. I am doing things now that I’ve never done. Today, I set up back-button focusing with the AF Servo mode. I then fine tuned that button with a specific use case, and that is what I based today’s shots on. In the past, I have shot almost predominantly with One-Shot mode where I focus and take the shot quickly (hoping the subject doesn’t move). This can work well when you are using a flash or strobe in low light conditions, or you are using a really fast shutter speed. However, if you can’t use a strobe or a faster shutter speed is impractical, then Servo mode is the only way to go, especially if the subject is moving or changing directions erratically. Servo mode is essentially continually focusing on the subject. So I need to use this mode when photographing kids, birds, dogs, other wildlife, etc.

The Photo of the Day was taken in Servo mode while the bird, he is a hungry little fellow, was flitting about. The focus appears to be spot on even considering that it was taken through a window.

The photo below is another similar shot. The photo of Mason was also taken in Servo mode even though he was not moving. What interesting is the ISO is a high 6400!