Canon AI Focus vs AI Servo: Which Autofocus Mode Should You Use?
When you’re out with your camera, chasing the perfect shot, getting the focus right is everything. If you’re a Canon shooter, you’ve probably seen these autofocus modes on your camera: AI Focus and AI Servo. But what do they actually do—and which one should you use?
Let’s break down the differences between AI Focus and AI Servo in plain English, with real-life examples to help you understand when to use each mode for best results.
AI Focus – The “Auto Decision Maker”
AI Focus is Canon’s hybrid autofocus mode. It automatically switches between One Shot AF (for still subjects) and AI Servo AF (for moving subjects) based on whether your subject starts to move.
How it Works:
- When you half-press the shutter, the camera checks if the subject is still.
- If the subject stays still, it locks focus like One Shot AF.
- If the subject moves, the camera tries to switch to AI Servo and track the movement.
Real-Life Example:
Let’s say you’re photographing a child standing still in a park. You half-press the shutter to focus. Suddenly, the child starts running towards you. With AI Focus, your camera should detect the movement and switch to tracking (AI Servo) automatically. Sounds handy, right?
The Catch:
AI Focus sounds great in theory, but in practice, it can be a little slow or unpredictable. Sometimes the camera hesitates to switch to AI Servo, which can result in missed focus, especially in fast-moving situations.
AI Servo – The “Action Tracker”
AI Servo is designed specifically for moving subjects. When you half-press the shutter, the camera continuously tracks and adjusts focus as your subject moves.
How it Works:
- You half-press the shutter.
- The camera never locks focus—it keeps adjusting as long as you’re holding the shutter and the subject is moving.
- Perfect for subjects moving toward or away from you, or side-to-side.
Real-Life Example:
You’re photographing your dog running across a field. With AI Servo active, you start tracking the dog with your shutter half-pressed. The camera constantly updates the focus, keeping your dog sharp even as it runs toward or away from you.
This mode is ideal for sports, wildlife, or any fast action. It’s reliable, fast, and gives you full control over focus tracking.
Which Autofocus Mode Should You Use?
| Scenario | Best Mode | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Portraits (still subject) | One Shot | Locks focus for stationary subjects |
| Casual family photos (mixed) | AI Focus | Tries to handle both still and moving subjects |
| Sports, wildlife, kids in motion | AI Servo | Tracks motion consistently and accurately |
| Birds in flight | AI Servo | Must track fast, erratic movement |
Pro Tip:
For reliable results in action photography, many photographers skip AI Focus altogether and choose AI Servo when they anticipate movement. It gives you more consistent control and faster focus adjustments.
Hands-On Learning: Master Autofocus in Real Life
Understanding autofocus modes is one thing—putting them to use in real life is where the magic happens. That’s exactly what we offer in our Omnilargess Outdoor Photography Workshops in Abbotsford.
Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate photographer, our hands-on workshops will help you:
- Master autofocus modes like AI Servo for action photography.
- Practice manual exposure in real outdoor settings.
- Learn composition and lighting tips for stunning images.
- Get one-on-one coaching from experienced instructors.
Upcoming Workshops:
- Beginner Outdoor Photography Workshop – April 5, 2025 (Mill Lake Park, Abbotsford)
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- Intermediate Outdoor Photography Workshop – May 3, 2025 (Fish Trap Creek Park, Abbotsford)
- Advanced Outdoor Photography Workshop – June 7, 2025 (Fish Trap Creek Park, Abbotsford)
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right autofocus mode can make or break your shot—especially when your subject isn’t standing still! Understanding the strengths (and weaknesses) of AI Focus and AI Servo can help you capture sharp, dynamic images with confidence.
So next time you head out with your Canon camera, think about your subject. Is it still or in motion? Pick the right AF mode—and watch your photography improve, one sharp image at a time.
And if you’re ready to level up with hands-on practice, we’d love to see you at our next Omnilargess Outdoor Workshop!
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Ted and the Omnilargess Team