New 5D Owner. Why can't I autofocus? [video included]

[voyager]

Hi Guys. Just moved up to a 5DMK3 from a 7D and have been using it for video (manual settings)

Recently flicked it over for some photography and I cannot get it to autofocus on anything. No matter what mode or what lens is on the front it won't work.

The only way I can autofocus is to put the live view screen on and autofocus that way (slow and painful!)

Here's a 60 second video of me explaining the problem. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

5D MK3 AutoFocus Fault (AF Problem)	Small | Large

[justsomedude]

Did you play with any of the button mapping, or try back-button focus?

Check C.Fn2, Custom Controls to make sure a half-button shutter press activates AF.  It may be deactivated for some reason.

[bdunbar79]

It may be a setting.  This happened to me with my 1Ds3.  Let me check.

[voyager]

Did you play with any of the button mapping, or try back-button focus?

Check C.Fn2, Custom Controls to make sure a half-button shutter press activates AF.  It may be deactivated for some reason.

Thanks for your reply. I have not adjusted these settings before but just checked again and it is definitely set to metering and focus on half press.

It may be a setting.  This happened to me with my 1Ds3.  Let me check.

Any advice you have would be awesome thanks!

[awinphoto]

Just saw your video... what AF mode setting do you have it set at... since the lens is engaging, it's obviously trying to get focus, but try in single point and or expansion modes... see if that helps? 

[canonian]

Are you sure you're outside the minimum focus distance for the lens you're using? 

In that video with the 50/1.8, it looks like you're fairly close to those pens/pencils.

 

[voyager]

Just saw your video... what AF mode setting do you have it set at... since the lens is engaging, it's obviously trying to get focus, but try in single point and or expansion modes... see if that helps?

Tried all focus modes and unfortunately it is the same.

Are you sure you're outside the minimum focus distance for the lens you're using? 

In that video with the 50/1.8, it looks like you're fairly close to those pens/pencils.

I wish that were the case but I posted this video after trying all my lens (X5) inside and outside and finally getting so fed up that I had to post the video. I even borrowed a mates 24-105L and when on my body it won't focus, but on his its fine.

[Wrathwilde]

Is it possible that something is gumming up the electrical contact connections between the lens and body?

[bdunbar79]

The 1Ds3 has a setting in C.Fn whereby the lens is first in Manual focus, then you can choose an option to, after taking the first picture, allow AF capabilities.  This would be useful for images where the subject is difficult for the AF to find, but once it does, it stays locked on.  If that is set, it will not AF on shot 1, but then you can do it for subsequent shots.  On the 5D Mark III I cannot locate such a function/capability.

[voyager]

Yeah it appears its proper rooted, and first time I've heard of this fault on a 5D

[Viggo]

And the mirror and/or focusing screen has no fingermarks on them of course?

Strange problem...

[chauncey]

Quick solution...at 8AM EST call canon customer support, 1-800-OKCANON.

[nda]

Have you tried powering the camera down and re-loading a fresh battery, does the AF-ON button focus?
If all else fails "Clear all camera settings" and try again!!!

[K-amps]

I would take it to the shop or call Canon. looks defective. Happens sometimes. The AF is being engaged, it is just not locking. This does not seem to be a lock or AF/MF setting related issue but a defect in the phase AF sensor. The Liveview uses contrast sensing and thus is engaging...

[Rat]

I've heard of this exact same problem once before here (Dutch language). In that case, it turned out to be a defect. So I suggest you get this baby to a dealer asap too.

(edited because a possible solution was not applicable, just saw the vid )