G3 Focus

[drisley]

I recently upgraded from a Canon S30 to the G3.
Overall I am happy, but one thing I notice is that the G3 seems to have a more difficult time autofocusing than my S30 did.

This is expecially noticable in low lights, and on smooth surfaces.
I think my S30 did a better job. Either that or the G3 is more picky about what situation in will give the "green light".

[roncor]

I, too, just recently got a G3. I've noticed that it has a hard time focusing in low light situation even though it has a built-in focus assist light. My EOS 650 with a 420EZ flash focuses much better. I can focus in total darkness with the EOS/420EZ because of the focus assist light built into the flash. I expected the same performance with the G3. Too bad the G3 does not meet that standard.

[jpmccormac]

I'm quite happy with my S30 also, though its low light AF ability is also pretty lame, IMO. I'm a long time (15+ years) Canon user, but until AF is improved on the G cameras I see no reason to throw good money at this equipment (yes, I know how to use hyperfocal settings and pre-focus to mitigate this problem).

Film based cameras like the EOS series are still king when it comes to AF speed and AF support from the EX series of flashes.

[1koolkat]

I have read on numerous forums to turn off constant autofocus, and use single autofocus. That way the camera isn't constantly updating its focus.

[PacAce]

To RONCOR:

Have you tried attaching the 420EX to your G3 and shooting that way? I understand all the features of 420EX (including the focus assist) works with the G3.

[drisley]

PacAce wrote:
To RONCOR:

Have you tried attaching the 420EX to your G3 and shooting that way? I understand all the features of 420EX (including the focus assist) works with the G3.

Really? I always heard that the flash focus assist lamps didnt work with the G3?
Here is an email I got from canon tech support:

"Dear Valued Customer.
Thank you for your E-mail inquiry regarding your G3.

As you are aware certain Speedlite functions may not operate when the flash
is mounted to the PowerShot G3. The AF assist beam is not listed as an
available function. This applies to all Speedlite flashes when used with
the PowerShot G3. I apologize for any inconveniences this may cause."

[roncor]

PacAce, I have the 420EZ. I have not bought the EX yet, although I will. But, I've been led to believe that the focus assist lamp on the EX flash does not work on the G3. Have you tested it yourself? That would be great if it does.