Cover photo by masa
※ cizucu-certified writer masa contributed to this magazine.
For younger photographers in the smartphone era, the term “focusing” might not feel very familiar.
Today, digital cameras, including smartphones, dominate photography. Autofocus (AF) is used in most situations, automatically focusing on the tapped area. As a result, the risk of out-of-focus shots has significantly decreased, and the barrier to photography has been greatly lowered.
However, precisely because we live in such a convenient age, let’s consider the meaning of deliberately shooting with manual focus.
Embracing Imperfection
Manually adjusting focus is more challenging than you might imagine. Even if you carefully turn the focus ring to align the focus on your intended spot, you might find it slightly off and out of focus when you check the developed image or screen. This is a common experience.
Photo by mame
Such imperfections are something that autofocus, which won’t let you take a shot unless the focus is locked, can never produce. That’s why we should embrace these imperfections as part of the charm unique to manual focus and approach photography with a sense of enjoyment.
Taking Time to Connect with Your Subject
The advancements in autofocus technology in recent years have been remarkable, allowing focus to lock almost instantaneously. It’s now possible to capture the exact moment you see without missing it.
On the other hand, shooting with manual focus takes time. You need to carefully turn the focus ring and meticulously adjust the depth of field for each shot.
Photo by mame
During this process, you naturally spend more time connecting with your subject. It’s in the slow process of focusing that you discover expressions and moments that leave a deep impression on your heart.
The Appeal of MF Lenses
While it’s enjoyable to manually operate autofocus lenses, the true charm of manual focus shines when using MF-specific lenses.
The biggest feature is the tactile experience. Designed for manual focusing, the torque of the focus ring feels satisfying, allowing precise adjustments through your fingertips. Additionally, without the autofocus mechanism, these lenses are often lighter and more compact compared to autofocus lenses with similar specifications. Furthermore, with a mount adapter, you can enjoy legendary lenses from the film era, commonly known as “vintage lenses.”
Photo by RYUURI
Why not challenge yourself with manual focus and bring a new rhythm and discovery to your photography?
