FighterControl

Getting used to picking my way around the Nikon D3200. Perfectly OK when attempting to get a focus lock on stationery aircraft but a bit hit and miss with the flyers. Using the Nikkor AF-S 55-300mm 1.45-5.6 VR lens. On some shots it just seems to go in and out of focus whilst hunting for but and by the time I get the light and beep to allow the shot its too late. Am I trying to get a focus lock whilst they are a little too far away?

As I say its been fine on some shots but I obviously want consistency before I really miss out on something I want a photo of.

Any suggestions? (Note to Canon users saying bin it and get a Canon isn't what I'm looking for..)

Thanks

Steve

Hi Steve .... For moving subjects you need to change your focus mode to AF-C ( Continuous Servo AF page 29 online manual ) in PASM shooting modes only . Half press and hold of the shutter release button will allow the the camera and lens to track the subject . Try setting it on Dynamic area AF and choose your AF point the shutter will only release when focus is confirmed in the viewfinder . Set it up and go outside and give it a go even on static subjects but there will be no focus confirmation beep...............hope that helps .
Cheers
Rich

One thing I would say is do not fully zoom into the aircraft, as this can cause the lens to "hunt". Start by being zoomed out then zooming in if you have continuous auto focus on, as apposed to zooming all the way in and then relasing its too late. You can always crop when you get home, but you cannot zoom out when you get home!

Thanks for the advice guys, much appreciated. Have had a quick go with the recommended settings on a couple of airliners flying over into Leeds Bradford and it seems to have done the trick.

Cheers

Steve