Page 11 - Learning How to Photograph with your DSLR Camera 2nd Edition Jan 2021

Manual (M) and Autofocus (AF) Switch

Most camera lenses you see today have a switch on the side of the lens. The switch is
marked M/AF or something similar for Manual focusing and Autofocusing. When
switched to Manual (M), you can grab the focus ring and manually focus the lens. This
might be important for difficult to focus shots, or to prevent the autofocusing system
from refocusing once you half press the shutter again (generally tripod, landscape
photography). Switched to autofocus the focusing system of your camera is focusing
the lens. If for any reason you seem to be having trouble with your autofocusing, ensure
the switch is activated to AF.

Vibration Reduction (VR) Image Stabilization (IS)

Optical Stabilization (OS) Switches

Depending on the lens manufacturer your lens may come with a switch
for Vibration Reduction (Nikon), Image Stabilization (Canon) or Optical Stabilization
(Sigma). You will see these on many newer DSLR lenses. They all mean the same thing.
When the switch is activated it can allow you to use a slower shutter speed that

Figure 3 Nikon Vibration Reduction Switch

would normally cause motion blur from camera shake. This is a great option although it
may add to the cost of your lens. The Normal and Active switch on this Nikon lens
above is part of the Vibration Reduction system. Activating the switch can allow you to
shoot 2-3 Stops slower and still have focus. The Normal switch is for camera shake as
you are holding it while the Active switch is for shooting from a moving car or some
other unstable platform.

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