How to select a Focus Mode (AFS/AFF/AFC)

Panasonic Lumix cameras offer different focus modes to suit different shooting scenarios. The three common focus modes found on Lumix cameras are AFS (Auto Focus Single), AFF (Auto Focus Flexible), and AFC (Auto Focus Continuous). Here's an overview of each mode and how to select them:

1. AFS (Auto Focus Single):

AFS is designed for capturing still subjects. In this mode, the camera focuses on a subject when the shutter button is pressed halfway down and locks the focus until the picture is taken. It's suitable for situations where you want to focus on a stationary subject and take a single shot. To select AFS:

Look for a button or switch labeled "AF Mode" or "Focus Mode" on your camera.
Press the button or flip the switch to cycle through the available focus modes until you reach AFS.

2. AFF (Auto Focus Flexible):

AFF is a hybrid focus mode that combines elements of AFS and AFC. It continuously focuses on the subject as long as the shutter button is held halfway down, but if the subject starts moving, it automatically switches to AFC. This mode is useful when photographing subjects that may be stationary at times but also move occasionally. To select AFF:

Access the "AF Mode" or "Focus Mode" button/switch on your camera.
Cycle through the available focus modes until you find AFF.

3. AFC (Auto Focus Continuous):

AFC is intended for capturing moving subjects. The camera continuously adjusts the focus as long as the shutter button is held halfway down, allowing you to track and capture subjects in motion. To select AFC:

Locate the "AF Mode" or "Focus Mode" button/switch.
Navigate through the focus modes until AFC is selected.

The exact method of selecting focus modes and the options available may vary slightly depending on the specific Lumix camera model you're using. Always consult your camera's manual for detailed instructions tailored to your camera model.

For more information on how to select an auto focus mode and applicable modes select your model from the list below

If your model is not listed below, click here to access our Operating Manual lookup to find more information

Select the model that you want to view more information on

For model DC-BS1H

To change the Focus Mode setting, select [MENU / SET] → [Motion Picture] → [Focus Menu] → [Focus Mode]

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-BS1H

For model DC-FZ1000M2

Applicable Shooting modes

To change the Focus Mode setting, set the focus mode lever to [AFS / AFF] or [AFC]

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-FZ1000M2

For model DC-FZ80

Applicable Shooting modes

To change the Focus Mode setting:

Press the AF/MF Button
Press [◄ / ►] to move to your desired focus mode and press [MENU / SET]

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-FZ80

For model DC-FZ80DK

To change the Focus Mode setting:

Press the AF/MF Button
Press [◄ / ►] to move to your desired focus mode and press [MENU / SET]

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-FZ80DK

For model DC-G95

Applicable Shooting modes

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-G95

For model DC-G9

Applicable Shooting modes

To change the Focus Mode setting, set the focus mode lever to [AFS / AFF], [AFC], or [MF]

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-G9

Watch this video for more information on focus modes.

Model shown in video is DC-G9.

For model DC-G100, DC-G100D

Applicable Shooting modes

To change the Focus Mode setting, press [MENU] → [Rec] → [Focus Mode]

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-G100

For model DC-GH5

Applicable Shooting modes

To select the focus mode, press [AF Tracking] and select your desired setting.

Click here to view more information on Focus Modes for model DC-GH5

For model DC-GH6

Applicable Shooting modes

Selecting a focus mode

Select the focusing method (focus mode) to match subject movement. It is also possible to customize the AF tracking features with [AFC]. To change the focus mode, set the focus mode lever to the desired setting

View page 160 in your model's operating manual for more information on [AF Custom Setting (Photo)]

[S] ([AFS])

This is suitable for recording still subjects. When the shutter button is pressed halfway, the camera focuses once. The focus stays locked while the shutter button is pressed halfway.

[C] ([AFC])

This is suitable for recording moving subjects. While the shutter button is pressed halfway, the focus is constantly adjusted according to the movement of the subject.

This predicts the movement of the subject, maintaining focusing. (Movement prediction)

[MF]

Manual focusing. Use this when you want to fix the focus or avoid activating AF. View page 195 in your model's operating manual for more information on recording using MF

For more information on Selecting the Focus Mode, view Page 153 in your model's operating manual

For model DC-GH7

Selecting a focus mode

View page 178 in your model's operating manual for more information on [AF Custom Setting (Photo)]

[S] ([AFS])

This is suitable for recording still subjects. When the shutter button is pressed halfway, the camera focuses once. The focus stays locked while the shutter button is pressed halfway.

[C] ([AFC])

This is suitable for recording moving subjects. While the shutter button is pressed halfway, the focus is constantly adjusted according to the movement of the subject.