Autofocus subject tracking is designed to keep focusing on a selected subject as it moves through the frame. Eye detection is a more specific feature that attempts to identify an eye and focus on it. Some cameras combine the features; others offer separate modes or different names for them.

What subject tracking does

Subject tracking helps a camera stay with a person, animal or object as it changes position. It can be useful for a presenter walking across a room or a creator filming an activity without a camera operator. The camera may use colour, shape, face or other scene information to decide which subject to follow.

Tracking can lose the subject if it leaves the frame, becomes obscured or looks similar to another object. A camera may also switch to a different subject unexpectedly.

What eye detection adds

Eye detection can make the focus more precise when filming a person, particularly when the subject’s face moves slightly. It is still only a focusing aid. It may choose the wrong eye, fail under difficult lighting or behave differently when the subject turns away.

Test your camera’s mode

Manufacturers use different names and provide different options, so read the manual for your model. Record a short test with the subject moving through the same area as your planned shot. Check that the camera stays with the intended person and that focus changes look natural.

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