Benefits of Back Button Focus for Concert Photography
Creamery Station performing at the Windmill Bar - St. John, USVI | photo- ©2023, Chris Sidoruk
1. Introduction
In the fast-paced world of concert photography, capturing crisp and engaging images is no easy feat. With flashing lights, quick-moving performers, and a constantly changing atmosphere, focusing becomes a real challenge. This is where the technique of back button focus shines, offering photographers greater control and precision in capturing those high-energy moments. But what exactly is back button focus, and why is it so beneficial for concert photography?
2. Understanding Back Button Focus
What is Back Button Focus?
Back button focus is a camera setting that separates the focus function from the shutter button. Instead of half-pressing the shutter to focus and fully pressing to capture the shot, back button focus assigns the focusing responsibility to a button on the back of the camera, usually the AF-ON or AE-L button. This allows photographers to focus independently from taking the shot, providing more control over the focusing process.
How It Differs From Shutter Button Focus
The traditional method of focusing—using the shutter button—often results in a delay between focusing and capturing the image. This can be particularly problematic in dynamic environments like concerts, where performers are constantly in motion. Back button focus eliminates the need to constantly refocus when the shutter button is pressed, making it easier to track and capture moving subjects without losing focus.
3. Why Focus is Crucial in Concert Photography
Capturing Dynamic Scenes
Concerts are filled with energy, movement, and unpredictability. From sudden leaps and twirls on stage to rapidly changing lighting effects, there’s a lot happening that can throw off your focus. Being able to lock in on your subject quickly and accurately can mean the difference between a blurry shot and a stunning, sharp image.
Managing Low-Light Conditions
Concerts often take place in dimly lit environments, with only spotlights or flashing strobes illuminating the performers. In such conditions, a camera’s autofocus system can struggle to lock onto the subject. Back button focus allows for more manual control, helping photographers maintain sharp focus even in challenging lighting.
Dealing with Fast-Moving Subjects
Musicians rarely stay still on stage. Whether it’s a guitarist moving from side to side or a singer jumping into the crowd, you need a focusing method that keeps up with the action. Back button focus enables faster and more precise focusing, so you’re less likely to miss those spontaneous, exciting moments.
4. Advantages of Using Back Button Focus for Concert Photography
Faster Focus Lock
Since back button focus separates focusing from the shutter release, you can pre-focus on the area of interest and then quickly snap the photo when the moment is right. This reduces the delay in focusing, which is especially useful when dealing with unpredictable movement on stage.
Improved Accuracy in Low-Light Conditions
Concert photographers often struggle with autofocus in low-light settings, but back button focus helps combat this by allowing more consistent focusing control. You can manually lock in focus and hold it, ensuring that the camera doesn’t keep hunting for focus every time the shutter button is pressed.
Flexibility for Creative Shots
Want to get a little more creative with your compositions? Back button focus gives you the freedom to lock focus on your subject, then recompose your shot without worrying about the camera refocusing. This is particularly helpful for artistic, off-center compositions that capture the atmosphere of the concert.
More Control Over Focus and Composition
Because you control when and where the camera focuses, back button focus offers much greater precision. Whether you’re focusing on the lead singer’s face or the drummer in the background, you have full command over your shot’s focal point.
Creamery Station at Winter Wake Up Music Festival
5. How to Set Up Back Button Focus
Camera Brands That Support Back Button Focus
Most modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras support back button focus. Brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm all have options to customize your focus settings. Check your camera’s manual or online resources to confirm if your model supports this feature.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting It Up
Go into your camera’s settings menu.
Locate the focus settings.
Assign the AF-ON or AE-L button to focus.
Disable focus from the shutter button.
Test your settings by practicing focusing with the back button while using the shutter button only to capture images.
Customizing Focus Settings to Your Needs
Many cameras allow further customization beyond just assigning the focus button. You can adjust how long focus is locked, the sensitivity of focus tracking, and other settings to suit your style of shooting.
6. Common Challenges of Concert Photography
Low-Light Environments
The dim lighting typical of concerts can make it difficult for a camera to achieve accurate focus. This is especially true when performers are bathed in colored spotlights or backlit by strobes.
Constant Movement on Stage
Whether it's band members moving across the stage or pyrotechnics exploding, the stage environment is a whirlwind of motion. This makes it hard to keep your subject in focus.
Crowd Distractions
Concerts often have large crowds, and it’s easy for autofocus to pick up audience members instead of focusing on the performers. This can ruin a perfectly good shot if you're not careful.
7. How Back Button Focus Solves These Challenges
Consistent Focus in Low-Light
By manually locking focus with the back button, you prevent your camera from continually seeking focus in challenging lighting, ensuring sharp images even in difficult conditions.
Tracking Moving Subjects Efficiently
Back button focus allows you to track moving performers more effectively, as you don’t need to refocus with every shutter press. Once focus is locked, you can concentrate on framing the shot while the subject remains sharp.
Avoiding Focus Hunting
Focus hunting occurs when the camera struggles to lock focus, often due to low light or fast-moving subjects. With back button focus, you can lock focus on your subject and avoid this frustrating issue.
8. Best Practices for Using Back Button Focus
Pre-Focusing Techniques
Before the performance starts, take a moment to pre-focus on key areas of the stage where the action will happen. This will save you time and ensure you’re ready to capture key moments.
Using Focus Peaking for Precision
Many cameras come with focus peaking, which highlights the in-focus areas in your shot. This feature can be invaluable when using manual focus in combination with back button focus for greater precision.
Adapting to Different Concert Scenarios
Each concert presents unique challenges, from the size of the venue to the lighting. Being adaptable and using back button focus strategically will help you stay ahead of the game and capture memorable shots.
Creamery Station at Wormtown Music Festival.
9. Mistakes to Avoid When Using Back Button Focus
Forgetting to Release the Focus Button
One of the most common mistakes is keeping the back button pressed too long, which can cause missed focus. Get into the habit of releasing the button once focus is locked.
Over-Reliance on Autofocus
While back button focus improves autofocus, don’t rely on it entirely. There will be times when manual focus is necessary, especially in challenging conditions.
Not Practicing Enough Before an Event
Using back button focus takes time to master. Make sure to practice before your next concert shoot to ensure you’re comfortable with the technique when it counts.
10. Conclusion
Back button focus is a game-changer for concert photographers, providing more control, faster focus lock, and greater accuracy in challenging environments. By mastering this technique, you’ll be better equipped to capture the energy, excitement, and emotion of live performances. While it may take some getting used to, the benefits far outweigh the learning curve.
11. FAQs
Is Back Button Focus Suitable for All Camera Types?
Yes, most modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras support back button focus.
Can Beginners Benefit from Back Button Focus?
Absolutely! While it may seem advanced, beginners can quickly adapt and see improved results in their photography.
How Long Does It Take to Get Comfortable with Back Button Focus?
With regular practice, most photographers can master back button focus within a few weeks.
Can You Switch Back to Shutter Button Focus If Needed?
Yes, back button focus is reversible, and you can switch back to shutter button focus if it’s not working for you.
Does Back Button Focus Affect Burst Shooting?
No, back button focus works well with burst mode and can even improve your chances of getting sharp images during continuous shooting.
