Switching from auto to manual focus

Probably a problem with the af/m switch so that even though switching to manual moves the connector out of the way (pulls it into the mount) the af motor continues to run. Remover the bottom and then the front cover and check the switch.

You did not say which lens or lenses you are using, but most auto-focus lenses have a switch for selecting manual or auto-focus. First, check your camera's menu settings to make sure auto-focus is enabled and then your lens to make sure you did not accidently leave it in the manual focus position? If it is in the auto-focus position and still not taking sharp pictures, switch it to manual and see if you can get it to focus correctly. It is also possible that your auto-focus alignment is out because your camera was bumped, jolted or dropped. If realignment is necessary, you can send the camera and lens to Nikon for repair or find a knowledgeable camera repairman.

Make sure the auto-manual focus switch on your camera is set to auto (A) and also make sure the auto manual focus selector on the lens is in auto (A) as well. If your lens contacts are dirty then this will affect the function of the lens as well. Clean those with either a lint free type cloth and alcohol or methylated spirits.

Not sure if this will help, but according to the manual, to use manual focus, push the button down until the red portion is visible, and turn the manual focus control dial until the image appears in focus in the viewfinder. Then, take the photo as normal. To return to autofocus, just return the switch to its normal position.

Putting the camera in manual mode still doesn't change the focus routine. If you want manual focus, there is a switch near the lens on the left allowing AF (auto focus) and MF(manual focus).

You may have put the camera on manual focus. Two ways to do that.
1. There is a switch on the lens which allows you to select auto or manual focus. Be sure the switch is set on A or A/M. If it's on M, you are on manual focus.

2. In you menus, there might be a mode which is manual focus. Look in your manual index under Focus, manual. There might be a setting in the Focus Mode menu.

You can also try resetting your camera. This will put most things back to factory default mode, including the focus mode.

When playing around with controls, go step by step through the manual and try things out. Be sure to set the control you were playing with back to default unless you really understand that setting.

On the front of the camera body, below the lens release button you should find a two position switch labeled "AF" & "M" This is the "Auto Focus - Manual" selector switch. Make sure the selector is set to "AF" for auto focusing.

Your lens may have a similar focus selector switch on its barrel. There are two types of switches used - depending on the lens. The first is labeled "M/A" and "M" The "M/A" position indicates it is in "Auto Focus" mode with a "Manual" focus over ride capability. You can simply twist the focus ring to change the focus to a point other than that chosen by the camera's auto focus system. The "M" position is Manual Focus mode. No focusing operations will be performed by the D80 auto focus system - focusing must be done by the photographer.

The second type has "A" & "M" positions. These represent Auto and Manual focus. The difference between this type switch and the "A/M & "M" switch is that when in "A", the camera will no allow the focus to be changed manually. There will be opposition to twisting the focus ring in the position. Forcing it will likely result in damage. The selector switch must be changed to "M" to change the focus.

If either switch is set to manual, the auto focus system will be disabled, so it is very important to have them both set to "A" or "A/M".

I hope this helps. Please rate my reply - thanks!

My HTsi Plus never seems to be able to Auto Focus on a subject, so when you push the shutter button half-way, it just flashes the focus indicator (telling you it is unable to focus). Try switching over to the "Manual Focus" mode. On the front of the camera there is a button labeled "AF/M". Push that button to switch to manual focus. If the camera is in manual focus, the external LCD screen will say "M.Focus". Now try to snap a shot. If that still does not work, there may be something wrong with the camera or the lens. So, try using a different lens in manual focus mode. If it still does not work, then I would say the problem is with the camera itself.

On the side of your lens, there is a switch that can be set on either A or M. Click it to A.

Have you tried switching the mode dial to a flower icon?

The mode with the flower icon is the macro mode, you can shoot up to 5 cm from the subject.

Also, if you are very close to the subject, then the auto-focus may not function properly if the targeting area is not centered on the subject.

When I shoot macro with my FZ7K, I use manual focus, the auto-focus generally has trouble focusing up close.

I would suggest trying manual focus.