Focus on the raccoon not the branch

[Doowhat]

I could not get this poor little guy into focus no matter what I did. I even tried walking around the yard. He was just sitting there watching me like "dude what are you doing". So my question is can someone give me a tip on how to focus on the raccoon and not the branch in front of him. Thank you

 

[Big Mike]

The problem was likely that your AF point was too large for you to easily keep it on the critter. Plus, the branch is nice and bright (as a lot of contrast), which is what AF tends to pick up.

The solution here would have been to switch to manual focus.

 

[Gaerek]

Are you using a DSLR or a Point and Shoot? If you're using a P&S, depending on the model, it might be very difficult to do what you want, since they will usually focus on whatever is closest and near the center of the frame. If you have a DSLR, look in your manual and learn how to change your focus point. If you change to just your middle focus point, then you can put that point on the raccoon, half press the shutter, then re-compose the shot to your hearts content. If you have the ability to manual focus (DSLR only, usually, some P&S can do this) you can do that and get the little guy in focus. Hope this helps.

 

[KmH]

A scene like that presents difficulties to any camera, including yours, that uses a phase-detection auto focus system.

Does your Canon camera allow you do manually select a focus point?

 

[Doowhat]

that the thing I'm offshore and i don't have the camera with me. so i I honestly don't know. guess I should have waited till I was at home with my camera to make this post.

 

[Big Mike]

Do you know if your camera is a DSLR or not? Can you take the lens off?

If you don't have a DSLR, you may not have a choice for manual focus.

 

[Gaerek]

Do you know the make/model of the camera? It'd be pretty easy for us to tell you the capabilities of the camera if you know those.

 

[Doowhat]

yes its a Canon PowerShot SX20 IS. and its a point and shoot

 

[Tony S]

Next time us a .22..... they are nasty little pests that spread diseases when they get around homes, pets, and pet food.

 

[Doowhat]

Naw man he was just looking for a place to sleep. This was back when they opened the spillway. Besides my wife wouldn’t let me that and i never saw them again