5DMk3 at wedding receptions

[wickidwombat]

In dim receptions try using just the center point, and learn to focus from the af-on button in the back instead of just pressing the shutter button. You need to go into your custom functions to set it up so you can only focus from your af-on but once you do its far superior, you always get the shot. Plus you should be using a flash with focus assist.

i always use back button focus

 

[cpsico]

So, I get that that Mk3 AF is very advanced vs. the Mk2, etc... what I am finding, however, is that during low light wedding receptions (dancing) the AF takes a second or so longer to lock on that the Mk2 or Mk1 did. I've changed the settings to release priority vs. focus priority so I can at least get the shot even if focus is not locked, but I am somewhat stunned that this advanced AF takes so long to lock in these reception situations. First, I am wondering if there is a setting I am missing, and also is anyone else seeing this? My second shooter and I are both having the "problem", so I thought I would ask. Thanks all!

Which lens are you using? Is it f/2.8 or f/4.0? Is the focusing motor a USM? Have you tried different lenses?

My rig during receptions is generally the 70-200 f/2.8 II, 24-70 f/2.8 and 16-35 f/2.8, mixing in an 85 1.2 occassionaly. I am now shooting 600EX-RT flashes on my Mk3 and Mk2 bodies with a 3rd off camera (these flashes rock, though can't wait for the 1DX to come out so that I have two "now" bodies to capitalize on all the flash functions on both bodies). I generally shoot at 2.8-3.5, sticking at 3.2 mostly, and not that it matters for AF at iso 2000 on the mk3. I have the slow AF lock on pretty much all lenses in low light. I shoot one shot most of the time. Next weekend I'll roll AI servo some, but then won't even know if it's locked. I just don't trust it in light of its slow lock. In good light... AMAZING!

Its nice to have some pictures and those aperatures but you might be safer with a lot more 5.6 shots. There are a lot more keepers at that aperature. Esp with moving people!!

 

[jennyjohn]

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[RLPhoto]

Try AF expansion. Avoid single point AF in extremely low light and Its worked good for me.

 

[bseitz234]

Try AF expansion. Avoid single point AF in extremely low light and Its worked good for me.

Hopefully upcoming firmware fixes all of this, though...

 

[awinphoto]

Try AF expansion. Avoid single point AF in extremely low light and Its worked good for me.

I second the AF expansion especially for low light. In my weddings I haven't noticed too much of a drop off... Also, on certain lenses, the center column has double cross points... Not sure if that means they can go any faster or just more accurate, but something to play with... But if your struggling, do a few test shoots in similar lighting situations and try different modes and AF scenarios until you find a system that you like best.

 

[Schruminator]

There is a massive thread on the issue, but I believe the 5D3 focuses much slower with the 600EX-RT flash or the 580 flash attached to it as opposed to no flash unit at all (or something along those lines).

I don't have either flash, so I haven't followed the discussion that closely, but I want to say Canon said they'd hopefully be fixing it soon.

Here's the loooong topic on the issue if you have time to burn
http://www.canonrumors.com/forum/index.php?topic=10275.0