Auto focus on E-M 10 MkII

[Rusty69]

I am not a novice photographer, but as years go by and I don't update my gear frequently, new features turn up and leave me flumoxed. I recently replaced my Fuji HS10 bridge (super all purpose camera for travelling) with the Oly MFT. I have been trying to capture a hummingbird that frequents my back yard and to help in this process, I set my AF in tracking mode. I keep the camera handy close by the back door (still waiting for the little bugger to return). My question is, if I choose to suddenly take the camera and use it for an entirely static shot, am I right to assume that the AF tracking will not make a blind bit of difference to the outcome (assuming I set the green square on the target in the framing process at the outset)? If I am right in thinking this way, does it make sense to use this AF mode on a constant basis?

 

[LilSebastian]

I own your same camera and do not use the C-AF with Tracking mode for auto focus. There are other MFT bodies that have more processing power and features (e.g. Phase Detect AF in EM-1) that allow for more consistent tracking by the camera body. The E-M10 II relies only on the Contrast Detect AF or CDAF which is wonderful for fast and accurate single (S-AF) lock onto a subject but not tracking. C-AF is best left for video too, just stick with S-AF

To capture the hummingbird, I would suggest changing your AF point to a single, or small grid in the center of your view. This will speed up the camera by giving it less to consider across the frame. Additionally, try Anti-Shock or Silent modes in Low or High frame burst to increase odds of a sharp photos. Shutter Priority with a sufficiently high speed to freeze the motion of your bird could aid in your goals too.

Good luck.

 

[Rusty69]

This was just the sort of feedback I was hoping for LS. I love this camera, but found the options overwhelming. I will persevere. My Monarch captures have been terrific, so I know I am on to a winner.

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[LilSebastian]

This was just the sort of feedback I was hoping for LS. I love this camera, but found the options overwhelming. I will persevere. My Monarch captures have been terrific, so I know I am on to a winner. View attachment 773993

Great photo! You might look for tutorials online and YouTube for good core settings. I like @Rob Trek and Robin Wong to help demystify the powerful choices in Olympus menus. Keep going!

 

[Rusty69]

I took your advice and downloaded Rob Trek's videos. I had already followed Robin Wong, so I am slowly getting comfortable with my new "toy". I greatly appreciate the fact that there are people like you on this site, who care enough to give great advice without being judgmental. Many thanks for the great tips.

 

[ac12]

It is called the learning curve. And it happens most/all of the time when you change cameras.
That is why I am clumsy with a new camera; I am learning where the controls are and how to do X.
You have to learn the peculiarities of the new camera. Some are more fussy than others.

I am still learning how to configure/adjust the EM1-mk2 for various shoots.
And I still have not used the "custom" settings, though I really should.

 

[Strymon76]

This was just the sort of feedback I was hoping for LS. I love this camera, but found the options overwhelming. I will persevere. My Monarch captures have been terrific, so I know I am on to a winner. View attachment 773993

Wow, that is a fantastic shot! What lens did you use? (Am not subscribed to EXIF)....