5D Mk III Focus-How?

I just went from a 70D and a 6D to a Mk III in hopes of increasing my focus capabilities. Well, the good news is, it looks like I did, or at least the camera did.

HOLY MACKEREL!

Where do I start? I can't make heads or tails out of ALL these focusing options. MY GOD. I've never seen so many options! Last night, I couldn't even make it focus except in green mode! I did finally figure out that the back focus is the default on the Mk III.

HELP! Anybody got any suggestions for a total pro-cam newbie? I just need a starting point. This is obviously not my 6D or any EOS I've ever owned.

I hate when people say this but you should read the manual and at least get the basics in place

xpfloyd wrote in post #17686511
I hate when people say this but you should read the manual and at least get the basics in place

Agree with Xpfloyd...


Several times even...I would also suggest you go to youtube and their is a wealth of information pertaining to the 5d mark III. Here is a good starter...
https://www.youtube.co​m/watch?v=23-vnnbDKck


Canon website is also a very valuable tool. I understand where you are coming from insofar as being overwhelmed. I went from a 30d to the 5d markIII and using this camera has taught me so much about photography. Following the forums and reading here helps too. Takes time and patience.

good luck and remember there is NO dumb question.

I agree with others who suggest referring to the manual. I always read cover to cover. However, if you want to avoid the manual, Youtube also helps explain the basics:

Maybe start with Canon's own PDF: Canon EOS 5D Mark III AF Setting Guidebook from the Canon Europe website.

JWdlft wrote in post #17686696
Maybe start with Canon's own PDF: Canon EOS 5D Mark III AF Setting Guidebook from the Canon Europe website.

VERY nice. Thank you!

I found it a little confusing at first. I just read the manual a few times, practicing each option as I read it. The focusing guidebook is helpful too. However, you just have to take the time to study it.

paddler4 wrote in post #17687904
I found it a little confusing at first. I just read the manual a few times, practicing each option as I read it. The focusing guidebook is helpful too. However, you just have to take the time to study it.

Yea. I'm starting to get it. It was just a little overwhelming at first, but it's making a lot more sense now, especially thanks to the links posted here.

I know. RTFM. Yea 400 pages of it. I haven't read 400 pages since college.

I do think it's funny that cameras are about the only electronics these days that still come with a manual (though now it tends to be on disc). Recently got a new workstation...only paperwork was warranty info. For any specifics on hardware or setup, you have to find them on the web.

Once you get used to the 5D3 focus, you'll really appreciate it. I came from a 5Dc, and now I find it so easy to get what I want in focus. I personally think it's best just to keep the manual at hand, and just try out different settings. Even if it's just boring stuff around the house, it's easier and better to learn by experience.

WilsonFlyer wrote in post #17686489
I did finally figure out that the back focus is the default on the Mk III.

No wonder you have problems, since what you found out isn't even true.
Default is that both trigger button half-press and AF-ON does the same, i.e. start metering and focusing.

apersson850 wrote in post #17689594
No wonder you have problems, since what you found out isn't even true.
Default is that both trigger button half-press and AF-ON does the same, i.e. start metering and focusing.

The camera was/is used with <5k clicks. I had not reset it to factory defaults yet either. Focus was OFF on the shutter release when I pulled it out of the box. I had assumed the guy I bought it from reset it prior to sending it to me. Bad assumption.

Then that isn't default

I thought it was at the time. I tried to explain that.

You guys pick the strangest things to browbeat. I made a mistake and a bad assumption. Get over it.

I always try to reset my cameras when I sell them, I know how confusing an non-reset camera could be for a new owner. I also know pretty quickly when I get a camera that hasn't been reset if I don't hear the beep. I think that is one of the first things that get changed by an owner when they get a camera.

There's nothing to get over. Some of us just happen to be the best browbeaters on the planet. In any case, hopefully the videos and links we've provided help toward a better understanding.

Just note that half-press shutter button focus is ALWAYS the default on EVERY DSLR. In terms of troubleshooting, if you've identified that as an issue then start with consulting the manual and resetting to factory default. Who knows what other custom settings the previous owner applied to the camera?

If you haven't already set back to factory default, then I suggest that you do so.