Article ID : 00090906 / Last Modified : 09/06/2022Print

The camera does not focus using the auto focus (AF) setting.

    Autofocus does not focus well sometimes due to reasons such as distance from the subject and the environment in which you are photographing.
    Check the solutions as follows according to the conditions or environment.

    • Make sure you are not too close to the subject.
      The minimum distance from the subject in which you can photograph (minimum focusing distance) is determined by the individual lens.
      Photographs will not be in focus if you attempt to shoot at less than the minimum focusing distance. Please shoot at the focus distance or farther away from the subject.

      Minimum focusing distance is noted on the front or side of the lens.

      Example: For SAL1855 (DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM), minimum focusing distance is noted as "0.25m/0.82ft" in meters (m) and feet (ft).

    •  
    • Make sure the subject or environment does not inhibit focusing.

      • Subjects with no contrast, such as the blue sky or white walls
      • Situations where multiple subjects are at different distances within the focus area
      • Subjects with repeating patterns, such as building exteriors
      • Bright or backlit subjects
      • Shiny subjects, such as water surfaces, and glossy subjects
      • Fast-moving subjects

      Focus as follows for such subjects or in situations where it is difficult to focus.

      1. Compose the shot with the focus locked using a subject at the same distance (Lightly press the shutter button to keep a green frame displayed.)

      2. Switch the lens or camera body to MF (manual focus), and adjust the focus manually.

    • Check the following and try changing to the desired setting.
      • Focus Mode: The focus mode setting allows you to select the focusing method according to the movement of the subject.
      • Focus Area: Focus Area settings let you choose the area within the frame to focus on.
      Note: For details on how to check and change the setting, refer to the Help Guide. 
    • If photographs come out with only part in focus
      By narrowing down the camera aperture, you can shoot with the entire photograph in focus with little blurring in the background or foreground.
      • Photograph with the aperture opened (example: Aperture value of 2.8)
      • Photograph with aperture narrowed down (example: Aperture value of 16)

      Try the following operations.

      1. Turn the camera's mode dial to A (Aperture Priority mode).
        This mode automatically sets the camera so variables other than aperture are at optimum exposure.

      2. Increase the F-value with the dial.
        Increasing the aperture in dark locations reduces the amount of light received, making it easier for camera shake to occur. In such cases, use a tripod or similar mechanism to prevent camera shake.

    If using ILCA-77M2, SLT-A77V, SLT-A99V, or DSLR-A900

    If the issue is still unresolved, the product may need to be repaired. Go to Product Repair.