Another "trick" AE Lock

[JSPhoto]

Well I guess it's time for another tip. The AE lock allows you to use the * button for controlling the AF. Many cameras, from the Rebel 300D to the pro 1D series bodies have the feature, although the 1D models at least have an actual custom function to give various different ways to use AE Lock.
Canon recomends Partial or Spot metering when using AE Lock. I use Spot Metering most of the time, and usually the center spot. I may use right or left side spot metering for motorsports when panning at some tracks however.

I will use for the AE lock for several reasons, one because it uses less battery to operate the AF, two it saves wear and tear on the system as you are not constantly focusing as the you follow a subject. And three, it's really simple.
With most cameras that have the ability to use AE Lock you can use your thumb to control the AE Lock button, very convienant (sp?). Since I shoot all sports with both eyes open, and use AE Lock if I see a player or official coming into view before taking a shot of my intended subject I can let off the AE Lock button as they pass and still be focused or close to it and can get back to the subject quicker. It's a great asset and one you should try out and get used to using.
I'm off to shoot volleyball, back later if there are any questions...

JS

[masdog]

I started doing this a few weeks ago. I like the feature because I can focus without having my finger on the shutter button, but now I need to train myself to keep my finger off the * button while composing.

[JSPhoto]

I started doing this a few weeks ago. I like the feature because I can focus without having my finger on the shutter button, but now I need to train myself to keep my finger off the * button while composing.

It does take a little getting used to, but once you get it you can't beat it. You will more keepers as well.

JS

[hesaias]

Since I shoot all sports with both eyes open,

I thought I was just weird. Is there anyone else that does this? I find it helps with basketball shots a lot.

[JSPhoto]

I thought I was just weird. Is there anyone else that does this? I find it helps with basketball shots a lot.

I learned to do this for survival shooting races, if I didn't shoot with both eyes open I'd have been killed a year ago last August. A USAC Midget car hit the catch fence right where I was standing. I saw him go airborne and I hit the dirt, looking up the car was above me. but a cable kept it from coming down on top of me. One photographer got a shot of it and you see me under the car. I couldn't shoot the rest of the night... too shakey!
Anyway, sports shooters should always keep both eyes open, AND always have a way out if something does happen.

JS

[livin4lax09]

wait, so how do you work it?

[JSPhoto]

wait, so how do you work it?

Depends on the camera Livin... I have to select it as a CFn... CFn-04 to be exact. There are 4 possible choices on mine.
0: AF/AE lock
1: AE lock/AF - focus one location and obtain AE lock at another and shoot. Press * to auto focus then push shutter button half way to AE lock
2: AF/AF lock, no AE lock - AI Servo mode you can stop AF momentarily - works for spors too
3: AE/AF, no AE lock - used for subjects that start and stop repeatedly. Used in AI Servo mode to start and stop AI Servo each time you push *. This is the mode I tend to use.

JS

[livin4lax09]

I have a 300d. I don't know what to do with it. I'm so confused.

[JSPhoto]

With the 300D you simply push shutter button down half way and hit the "*" button. You can also push the * and then go half way on the shutter button.

JS

[masdog]

With the firmware hack, I think you can enable that custom function on the 300D.

[JSPhoto]

Mine isn't hacked and it works.... it's listed in the manual in fact.

JS

[masdog]

Well...shows how much I know.

Actually, I had a 300D for over two years I don't think I read the manual once.

[JSPhoto]

Yeah, it's easier to get on the forum and ask there than to read the manual.... the pictures are better here than the manual too

JS