What is manual focus in photography?

Manual focus in photography refers to the technique where the photographer takes control of the focus settings of their camera lens. This involves rotating the focus ring on the lens to achieve the desired sharpness on a specific subject. This method allows for greater precision and creativity, as the photographer can select exactly what they want to be in focus, particularly in situations where autofocus may struggle, such as low light, complex scenes, or when capturing subjects with similar tonal values to the background.

Using manual focus is especially beneficial for macro photography, portraiture, and any scenario where depth of field plays a critical role in composition. By controlling focus manually, photographers can enhance the storytelling aspects of their images and ensure that the focal point aligns with their artistic vision.