R2D2
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Forum Pro
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Posts: 26,528
Re: M50 AF question for AF nerds
5
I cannot speak to the specifics of the M50 as I don’t have one (I could go on all day about the M6ii ), but I do have some general recommendations for this kind of shooting.
First and foremost, no matter what body and lens you end up shooting with, I very highly recommend using DxO’s Photolab for post processing (shoot RAW and process the noise with its Deep Prime noise reduction). It’s as close to a miracle worker as you can get.
You won’t be able to avoid some very high ISOs. Try not to underexpose.
As you’ve been doing, find that balance between slow shutter speeds and acceptable keeper rates. The “edited” sample you posted is (truly) beautiful, but as you’ve been finding out, the slow shutter speeds will make it very hard to capture the fast action. For those jumps you’ll generally need a lot higher shutter speed (and commensurately higher ISO). Track as well as you possibly can.
One thing that will help the autofocus is for your subjects to wear very bright and contrasty clothing. I’ll often AF on a person’s jersey when shooting sports. Turning off Exposure Simulation can also give the autofocus a better/ brighter image to focus on. I like using Spot AF with my M6ii, as it’s faster to acquire focus, and holds onto subjects better than Face/Eye detect. The M50 may behave differently though.
You’re definitely better off with the larger sensors for this type of shooting. And the fastest lenses (ie fast primes) will allow you to keep those shutter speeds up. You may have to give up the flexibility (and some reach) vs your zooms, but the results will be far better. There’s a huge difference between f/1.4 and f/2.8. The Canon EF-M 32mm and Sigma EF-M 56mm spring to mind. Maybe a longer prime too.
This type of photography is about the most technically challenging as you can get. Shoot a LOT. Expect a little. Holler back with any questions.
R2