WordGarden.ioautofocus
Pronunciation
UK
US
Meanings
Noun
an automatic focusing system or feature in a camera, lens, or similar imaging device
Verb
to focus automatically using an automatic focusing system
Beyond the definition
Imagine trying to take a perfect picture of a hummingbird—it's zipping around so fast! That's where autofocus comes in. It is a feature on cameras (and even smartphones) that automatically adjusts the lens to make your subject sharp and clear, without you having to fiddle with manual rings or settings.
Originally found only in professional equipment, autofocus is now commonplace. Think of it as the camera doing the work for you, constantly scanning and adjusting to keep things crisp. While it is a technical term, it is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a mind that can instinctively and instantly lock onto a goal, much like a computer locking onto a target.
Autofocus is a system used in optics—most commonly in cameras—that automatically moves the lens elements to achieve sharp focus on a specific subject. Before this technology existed, photographers had to manually turn a focusing ring until the image appeared clear in the viewfinder, which could be incredibly difficult with moving subjects or in low light.
The technology behind autofocus varies but generally involves sensors that detect the distance to the subject or analyze contrast, moving the lens accordingly. Modern cameras often feature sophisticated modes, such as "continuous autofocus" for tracking moving objects (like athletes or wildlife) or "eye-detection" to ensure portraits are perfectly sharp.
While primarily a technical term, "autofocus" occasionally appears in narrative or business language as a metaphor. Unlike standard "focus"—which implies effort—having "autofocus" implies an automatic, intuitive ability to zero in on what matters. Whether referring to the lens in your pocket or a state of mind, autofocus is all about achieving clarity and precision without manual delay.
Examples
- 1
Low light
My phone’s autofocus was slow in the dark, so the photo came out blurry.
- 2
Wrong subject
The camera kept autofocusing on the people in the background instead of on her face.
- 3
Manual focus
For this shot, the director turned off autofocus and focused the lens by hand.
See also
Similar
- automatic focus
- AF
Contrast
- manual focus
Used with (collocations)
- autofocus system
- autofocus mode
- autofocus points
- fast autofocus
Explore
- focus lock
- depth of field
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- autofocusnoun