Focus on remote?

[Syborg1211]

Is there a way to make my D600 autofocus when I use the ML-L3 wireless remote? I need a way to practice lighting setups using myself as the subject, but I can't use autofocus by pressing the shutter button half way down because then I wont' be sitting in front of the camera. Right now, when I use the ML-L3 remote it does not focus at all and just snaps the shot. What setting do I need to adjust to make it so that the remote trigger will autofocus before taking the shot?

 

[blastingcap]

Is there a way to make my D600 autofocus when I use the ML-L3 wireless remote? I need a way to practice lighting setups using myself as the subject, but I can't use autofocus by pressing the shutter button half way down because then I wont' be sitting in front of the camera. Right now, when I use the ML-L3 remote it does not focus at all and just snaps the shot. What setting do I need to adjust to make it so that the remote trigger will autofocus before taking the shot?

Not sure if the new WR-R10/WR-T10 can do it or not. Google it if you are interested. ML-L3 is older tech and the newer remote is pricier but apparently more feature-rich.

 

[Munky]

Doesn't the camera autofocus before taking the shot? I use the ML-L3 remote with my Nikon D40, and don't have any issues with autofocus.

 

[slashbinslashbash]

I have a Canon remote that autofocuses on a half-hold-down, just like the normal shutter button. Don't know if it works the same way with Nikon remotes.

But your best bet is probably to set the camera to Manual Focus. You're not going to be moving the subject (your chair/stool) and camera around much, right? Get the focus right once, then set it to manual.

 

[slashbinslashbash]

I have a wired Canon remote that autofocuses on a half-hold-down, just like the normal shutter button. I even have a cheapy $15 eBay wireless remote that does the same. Don't know if it works the same way with Nikon remotes.

But your best bet is probably to set the camera to Manual Focus. You're not going to be moving the subject (your chair/stool) and camera around much, right? Get the focus right once, then set it to manual.

 

[blastingcap]

haven't used my ML-L3 remote in ages but I think it autofocuses on a half-press... OP should try that first

 

[Syborg1211]

I didn't realize the ML-L3 supported half presses as it feels like a simple plastic dome press button. I'll play around with it some and get back to you.

As for getting the focus right once and leaving it on manual focus, how do you dial it in without a subject? Trial and error? I tried this briefly, and it was just frustrating, especially when I can't fully tell perfect focus from the LCD.

 

[blastingcap]

I didn't realize the ML-L3 supported half presses as it feels like a simple plastic dome press button. I'll play around with it some and get back to you.

As for getting the focus right once and leaving it on manual focus, how do you dial it in without a subject? Trial and error? I tried this briefly, and it was just frustrating, especially when I can't fully tell perfect focus from the LCD.

Try ye olde hyperfocal distance trick. Modify it to suit DX... the make smartphone apps for this, too. And cards.

 

[IronWing]

Does the D600 have a "sports" mode that tells the camera to track and continuously autofocus?

Edit: Looks like the shutter has to be halfway depressed to use it.

 

[Syborg1211]

Figured it out - the camera will autofocus when you use the ML-L3 by default. However, if you ever press the camera's shutter button to focus, the camera will no longer autofocus on remote triggers. So just need to be careful to never touch the camera's shutter button after setting it to remote mode. Sheesh that's gonna be tough lol I always do that by habit.