What AF mode do you use

Can someone explain what each AF does? I'm not too sure on what to use so I leave it on 'one shot' AF all the time.

Thanks

One shot focuses once, then stays there no matter what (until you release and refocus).
AI Servo will continuously focus on your target as long as you're holding down the focus control.
In Manual, you focus, and use your eyeball to make sure the image is sharp.
AI-AF focuses on the subject assuming that it should be in one-shot, then if it thinks the subject's moved it'll shift over to servo tracking. Usually it takes too long making up its mind, and you miss focus. In other words, it's the worst of both worlds. It's the one mode I never use (if you asked the converse of your question, it'd be the clear winner).

Did everyone miss the "...and why" in the question. I think the OP wants to know under which criteria you would choose each of these modes.

Jon, The Elder wrote in post #4181872
Primoz is right, in that this is a pointless question for anyone other than a first-day-noobie.

And that's what I am. I will tell the mods do delete this post since people are getting their panties in a bunch

I now know to use all three depending on what's being shot. Thanks to those people who helped.

Sad, very sad ;(

I use one shot most of the time, and servo when shooting moving subjects. I don't even know if I've ever used the 2nd option.

Donte wrote in post #4183763
And that's what I am. I will tell the mods do delete this post since people are getting their panties in a bunch

I now know to use all three depending on what's being shot. Thanks to those people who helped.

Generally the people who post here are more than willing to help with some typically good tips and suggestions.

One suggestion would be to think through what you are trying to learn, and ask more pointed questions. Any question that leads to a natural response of, "It depends." is not going to get you much useful information. An open ended question asking in what type of situations is AI Servo best used will more likely get you better information and people willing to help you become a better photographer.

PhotoGeek wrote in post #4183997
Generally the people who post here are more than willing to help with some typically good tips and suggestions.

One suggestion would be to think through what you are trying to learn, and ask more pointed questions. Any question that leads to a natural response of, "It depends." is not going to get you much useful information. An open ended question asking in what type of situations is AI Servo best used will more likely get you better information and people willing to help you become a better photographer.

Good advice and well put.

I also believe that sometimes rather than give a vague answer to a vague or generalized question we should ask the OP to be more specific. Given the international flavour of this forum.

Use whatever is needed to get the shot!

troutfisher wrote in post #4184102
Use whatever is needed to get the shot!

Good example, troutfisher.