How to Use Canon EOS 80D Face Tracking and Autofocusing

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Canon EOS 80D Face Tracking and Autofocusing

The Canon EOS 80D introduces an advanced feature: face tracking autofocusing, which aims to enhance still photography and video recording by automatically identifying human faces within the frame. Despite its potential, some users may encounter difficulties with the face tracking and autofocusing capabilities of the Canon EOS 80D.

The camera defaults to face tracking mode for both video and photo modes, actively seeking out human faces to focus on. However, the following guidelines can assist those experiencing challenges with this feature.

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Step 1.

Aim your camera lens directly at a human face to initiate face tracking.

Step 2.

Press and hold the shutter button or the AF-On button on your camera. This action should secure the focus on the face.

Step 3.

A focus frame will turn green, signaling that focus has been achieved. The camera will emit a beep, indicating it’s ready to capture the image.

Common Challenges with Canon EOS 80D Face Tracking Autofocus

While the face-tracking autofocus feature of the Canon EOS 80D simplifies the photographic process in many scenarios, users might still face some obstacles. Here are tips to overcome these challenges:

Locking focus with Face+Tracking can sometimes be difficult. Follow the steps outlined above to ensure success.
For effective face detection, ensure that subjects are facing towards the camera, as the system relies on identifying key facial features like eyes, nose, and mouth.
The camera might mistakenly focus on objects that resemble a human face.
Face detection can falter if the face-to-background size ratio is imbalanced, the shooting angle is skewed, poor lighting conditions, or the face is obscured. Adjusting the zoom, repositioning for better lighting, or ensuring the face is unobstructed can mitigate these issues. A DSLR monitor might enhance face tracking by providing a larger view for detailed inspection.
Face+Tracking Autofocusing may not engage if the subject is too close to the frame’s edge. If a gray indicator replaces the usual white focus frame, increase the distance between the camera and the subject or adjust the framing. After securing the focus, you can then recompose the shot as desired.

Leveraging the Face+Tracking Autofocusing feature of your Canon flip screen DSLR can significantly enhance your photography, offering automated focus and exposure adjustments for shots featuring human subjects.