Sony A7R II: Configuring Autofocus + Eye AF
See my Sony mirrorless wishlist at B&H Photo.
I recently reported on autofocus accuracy with the Sony A7R II and the Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM, using conventional spot-focus AF-S, which is normally the way I shoot just about everything when not using manual focus.
I also tested with the Eye AF feature and found similar results (not published as they were similar).
However, yesterday and today my ad-hoc testing with the
feature shows that it has serious potential for improving results any time the subject or photographer is moving, even a little.The
feature is well hidden by the Sony menu system and it apparently cannot be coupled to the shutter release (at least I have not found any way to do so)—it requires a separate button to invoke. Nor does it work with the Sony wireless remote control, a pity, since it would be a great way to do selfies. What a great way to render a good feature less useful! It’s almost as if Sony doesn’t want the feature to be used.I’ve revamped my Sony A7R II setup pages as follows, this first page details recommended autofocus configuration, including how to configure to use
as well as the button the GM lenses:- Autofocus Configuration for Sony A7R II and Siblings: Buttons and Eye AF
- Custom Function Menu Customization for Sony A7R II and Siblings
- Button Customization for Sony A7R II and Siblings
- Important Settings for Sony A7R II
James K (NYC pro photographer) writes:
I just completed a series of head and shoulder portraits on our roof patio. Shade, f/2 1/2000 ISO 160.
I used the GM Focus Hold button with Eye Focus. I nailed eye focus on every photo (14). This function is fabulous. I could never have achieved this any other way. I am absolutely delighted with the lens.
The button makes the system really sing. Handling and feeling are great. Highest portrait hit rate ever.
DIGLLOYD: DSLR autofocus is dead.