D90 focus points

[hcho22]

<p>Hey Everyone, </p>

<p>Do anyone use focus points other than the center point on the D90? Lately, I've been having some problems with the points that are located on the left and the right. If you look at the attached photo, I focused on the baby's eyes and it totally missed it. It works perfectly when I use the center focus point, but when I use the left or the right points, it misses sometimes. Is this normal or do I have to get my camera calibrated?</p>

<p>Hyung</p><div></div>

[ShunCheung]

<p>The D90 uses Nikon's Multi-CAM 1000 AF module that has 11 AF points, but only the center one is cross type, which is sensitive to both horizontal and vertical lines with contrast. It is normal that the other AF points will sometimes miss the focus due to the lack of contrast in the direction they are sensitive to.</p>

<P>

I have a D200 that also uses a Multi-CAM 1000, and I have my share of frustration using that camera indoors for the same reason.

</P>

[hcho22]

<p>I see....thanks for the quick response Shun.</p>

[Peter_in_PA]

<p>I stick with the center point for static things, but have had GREAT luck with 3D tracking for kid sports.</p>

[mark_drutz]

<p>If you want to use one of the other focus points, set the AF to single shot. That way you'll get an in focus confirmation and it won't shoot if it's out of focus. Otherwise use the center point, lock the focus, and recompose.</p>

[peter_cohen]

<p>Interesting question, as I've had similar experiences and just chalked it up to my eye or sloppy technique. So, how do you deal with the issue of using the center point and recomposing when you're working on a tripod, as with a formal portrait where the central focus point doesn't fall on the eyes?</p>

[ShunCheung]

<p>If you are using a tripod and have plenty of time to fine tune your focusing, live view solves all problems. Unfortunately, sometimes we are shooting a changing scene and don't have the luxury to fine tune the focus.</p>

[mark_drutz]

<p>Peter, AF with the center point and then switch to MF and recompose. You can also MF using the focus confirmation diode as a focusing aide and then recompose.</p>

[peter_cohen]

<p>Great ideas, Shun and Mark. I'll try both techniques.</p>