Photo How To

Fast and precise focus is a primary goal of all photographers regardless of the type of images they shoot. Today's your lucky if back-button focus isn't part of your repertoire, because this tutorial from First Choice Photo will bring you up to speed on this game-changing technique in the next 13 minutes.

Instructor Mike Patterson is an award-winning pro with years of experience who says that this easy-to-master focusing method is one that "every photographer should know." Here's his goal for today: "I'll break down what back-button focus is, why it's essential, and how to set it up in your camera."

This technique is popular among experienced photographers for a variety of reason, whether they're shooting fast-moving subjects or they just want more control over their focusing points. Either way, Patterson promises that after giving back-button focus a try, "the results will blow you away."

This very effective approach involves assigning focusing to a button on the back of the camera, rather than relying upon the shutter button to handle this important task. As you'll see, there are several reasons for limiting the shutter button to capture the image while using your thumb on the back of the camera to lock focus whenever you want.

Patterson walks you through the step-by-step procedure for setting the camera correctly to work properly with this powerful technique. He also explains a few options for doing so to meet your specific needs. There are also a few custom settings that are worthy of attention.

One interesting trick involves using the back button in combination with Manual focus. Patterson admits that there are a few potential drawbacks when taking this approach and how how to avoid them. He also describes certain situations under which you may want to revert to the shutter button and not use back-button focus at all.

But with a bit of practice and experimentation it's likely that you'll jump on the back-button bandwagon from now on. Be sure to check out the First Choice Photo YouTube channel where you'll learn how to unlock other handy camera features.

And don't miss last week's gear guide from another accomplished pro who reveals what he considers 10 "must have" photography accessories that will significantly boost your enjoyment and success without breaking the bank.