AI Servo, or Automatic Intelligent Servo, is a powerful feature on the Canon 60D that allows photographers to track and capture moving subjects with precision. AI Servo is particularly useful for shooting sports, wildlife, and other fast-paced activities where the subject is in constant motion. In this article, we will explore how to use AI Servo on the Canon 60D to maximize its capabilities and capture stunning action shots.
1. Enable AI Servo Mode
To begin using AI Servo on the Canon 60D, you first need to enable the AI Servo mode in the camera’s menu. Navigate to the AF (autofocus) settings and select AI Servo mode. This mode is designed to continuously adjust focus as the subject moves, ensuring that your shots remain sharp and in focus.
2. Select the AF Point
Once AI Servo mode is enabled, you can select the AF point or area where you want the camera to focus. The Canon 60D offers multiple AF points, allowing you to choose the specific area of the frame you want to track. For moving subjects, it is best to select the AF point closest to the subject’s anticipated path of movement. This will help the camera maintain focus on the subject as it moves across the frame.
3. Use Predictive Autofocus
The Canon 60D’s AI Servo mode includes predictive autofocus, which anticipates the subject’s movement and adjusts focus accordingly. This feature is particularly useful when shooting fast-moving subjects, such as athletes or wildlife. When using predictive autofocus, the camera will continuously adjust focus to keep the moving subject sharp, even as it changes speed or direction.
4. Consider Custom Functions
The Canon 60D offers a range of custom functions that allow you to fine-tune the performance of AI Servo mode. For example, you can adjust the tracking sensitivity to control how quickly the camera responds to changes in the subject’s movement. Additionally, you can customize the AF point selection to align with your shooting preferences. Experimenting with these custom functions can help you optimize AI Servo for your specific shooting needs.
5. Practice and Experiment
Using AI Servo effectively takes practice and experimentation. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the feature and testing it out in different shooting scenarios. Try capturing fast-moving subjects in various lighting conditions and environments to see how AI Servo performs. Through practice and experimentation, you can learn how to make the most of AI Servo on the Canon 60D and capture stunning action shots with precision.
In conclusion, AI Servo is a valuable tool for photographers using the Canon 60D, especially when shooting moving subjects. By enabling AI Servo mode, selecting the appropriate AF point, utilizing predictive autofocus, exploring custom functions, and practicing with different shooting scenarios, photographers can effectively leverage AI Servo to capture dynamic and compelling images. With the right techniques and familiarity with AI Servo, photographers can elevate their action photography and produce impressive and impactful results.
