Canon EOS 5D Mark III Manual

AF Setting Guidebook
Detailed explanations of how to use the
various high precision AF features

AF Setting Guidebook
Contents
New AF Setting Operability
4 Newly established AF tabs AF menu functions are in a separate tab
AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
06 Select from Case 1 - Select from Case 1 - Case 6 to match subject scenarios
08 Case 1 Versatile multi-purpose setting
10 Case 2 Continue to focus-track even when the subject momentarily moves from the AF points
12 Case 3 Focus instantly on subjects that move into the AF points
14 Case 4 Focus track subjects that accelerate or decelerate quickly
16 Case 5 Focus on subjects with erratic movement
18 Case 6 Focus on subjects with erratic movement and changes in speed
AF Configuration Tool [Parameters]
20
Tracking sensitivity This setting allows obstacles that pass in front of the subject to be ignored,
as well as focusing on new subjects
22 Accel./decel. tracking [+] is effective for fast sports which may include sudden stop-start motion
24
AF pt auto switching [+]setting is most effective for sports with lots of movement where the
subject can easily move out of the selected AF point
AF Area Selection Mode
26 AF area selection mode
28 Spot AF, Single-point AF Focusing on a small or narrow area
30 AF point expansion Fast moving subjects that are difficult to track with a single AF point
32 Zone AF Effective for capturing subjects within an known area
34 Auto selection of 61 AF points With AI Servo AF all 61 points can be used for automatic tracking
61-Point High-Density Reticular AF Cross-type Points
36 The 61-point AF has many cross-type points that support F/4 for great tracking performance
37 The number and placement of cross-type points used by the F/2.8 lenses
38 The number and placement of cross-type points used by the F/4 lenses
39 The number and placement of cross-type points used by the F/5.6 lenses
Setting the AF Shutter-release Characteristics
40 AF operation and shutter-release timing settings
Utilizing the AF
42 AF points can be set to switch automatically for horizontal and vertical shooting
44 AF points can be called instantly using Switch to registered AF point
46 Custom controls for effective AF related functions
61-Point High-Density Reticular AF
Improved AF performance capturing fast moving subjects
AF Configuration Tool
Simple selection of the best combinations of AF settings for any subject or scene
By combining the ultimate in AF
performance and easy of use, a
wealth of new photographic
possibilities are available.
The EOS 5D Mark III is equipped with a newly
developed 61-Point High-Density Reticular AF
making it possible to capture fast moving subjects
in situations where accurate focusing even with a
high performance autofocus is difficult. By
arranging the 61 AF points in a high concentration,
the level of composition freedom, and tracking
performance is greatly improved. Featuring 41
high precision cross-type AF points compatible
with f/4 lens and new algorithms, are used
together with AI Servo AF III to improve accuracy
for predictive AF, making it possible to focus
precisely when shooting subjects with extremely
fast movement, such as agile players with
unpredictable behavior.
The AF Configuration Tool makes it possible to set
the AI Servo AF features by simply selecting the
shooting scene from [Case 1] to [Case 6]. Should
you need to, it is also possible to adjust the
parameters separately. This AF Setting Guidebook
will introduce a variety of features and most
effective settings centered around the 61-point AF
and AF Configuration Tool, in order to take
advantage of the high performance AF functions
of the EOS 5D Mark III.
AF frame indicated in this information may differ from those interior indication and color of actual finder.

4 5
New AF Setting Menu
All AF-related menu functions now in a separate menu
The Various AF-related functions are now incorporated into an AF menu tab
Various settings for AF-related features can be made with AF menus [AF2] - [AF5]
AF-related setting items
in the AF menu
The AF1 tab is important when shooting moving
subjects using the AI Servo AF of the EOS 5D Mark III.
It is possible to effectively set AI Servo AF
characteristics by selecting the option that closely
matches the scene with the AF Configuration Tool.
The AF1 tab includes the AF Configuration Tool
The various AF-related settings that were
previously included in the custom functions
(C.Fn) menu, have been incorporated into the
new AF menu tab. This makes smooth access to
AF-related settings possible. In particular, the AF
Configuration Tool included in tab AF1 can be
used to easily match settings with the AI Servo
AF characteristics, making it an important feature
that takes advantage of the advanced AF
performance on the EOS 5D Mark III. By selecting
from six presets (Case 1 - Case 6), makes it
possible to set the AI Servo AF characteristics to
most accurately suit the subject's movement,
and scene conditions. It is also possible for fine
control to adjust each parameters separately.
(Refer to P. 7 – 25 for AF Configuration Tool
details.) Tabs [AF 2] – [AF 5] include a variety of
settings such as shutter-release timing settings, a
setting for the number of AF points that can be
selected and AF area selection method.
AF2 AI Servo
Settings related to the camera priorities when using
AI Servo AF
The [AF/2] tab includes settings related to cameras priority
concerning shutter-release timing when using AI Servo AF. [AI
Servo 1st image priority] and [AI Servo 2nd image priority] make
it possible to make focusing the priority slowing the shutter-
release timing, or prioritize faster shutter-release.
AF3 One-Shot
Settings related to focusing and shutter-release
timing when using One-Shot AF release priority
AF4
Includes general settings related to AF point
selection
Within the [AF3] tab, the [One-Shot AF release priority] settings
related to focusing and shutter-release timing when using One-
Shot AF release priority. The other options [USM lens electronic
MF] and [AF-assist beam firing], control the manual focus
operation of some lenses and the operation of AF assist function
of attached Speedlites.
Select which and how AF points are selected. This menu includes
settings related to [AF area selection mode] ([Automatic AF point
selection criteria], [Selectable AF points], [AF area selection
mode], [AF area selection method], and [Orientation linked AF
point]). In addition there is the [Lens drive when AF impossible]
option in this menu.
Within [AF5] tab are settings that control how AF points are
displayed in the viewfinder such as ([AF point display during
focusing], [VF display illumination], and [AF status in viewfinder]).
With the (Manual AF pt. selec pattern) the AF point selection can
stop at the peripheral AF point or instead loop back to the
opposite side of the AF area. For those who need to make fine
adjustments to the focus position [AF Microadjustment] is available.
AF5
Includes general settings related to display of AF points, etc.

6 7
The best parameters for different subjects and shooting scenes are
combined into presets from Case 1 - 6
Hints & Tips
Case6
For subjects that change speed and move erratically
Case5
For erratic subjects, moving in any direction
Case4
For subjects that accelerate or decelerate quickly
Case3
Instantly focus on subjects suddenly entering AF points
Case2
Continue to track subjects, ignoring possible obstacles
Case1
Versatile multi-purpose setting
AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Select from Case 1 - Case 6 to match subject scenarios
Presets consist of three different parameters combinations
The AF Configuration Tool is
a function for set t ing AI
Servo AF characteristics.
Therefore, it’s settings will
have no function when using
[One shot AF].
[AF1] tab screen. By selecting an appropriate preset from the Case 1 - Case 6
icons on the left side of the screen, the most effective AI Servo AF settings for
different subjects can be made.
When the [AF1] tab on the EOS 5D Mark III is
opened, [Case1 Versatile multi-purpose setting]
a running man icon will be displayed. This is the
default option for the AF Configuration Tool.
Different presets to match the characteristics of
the type of subject and its movement, and the
shooting conditions, can be selected from Case
1 - Case 6. By simply selecting one of these
cases, settings for the AI Servo AF characteristics
that match the scene will be used.
,These six presets are combinations of the
following three parameters, [Tracking
sensitivity], [Accel./decel. tracking], and [AF pt
auto switching] (P. 20 - 25). Using the presets
sets the parameters in the most effective way.
However, if you wish It is also possible to
manually adjust the parameters individually.
A combination of parameters to best suit the characteristics of subject movement have been used to create the
presets from Case 1 – Case 6. By selecting the appropriate icon, the different AI Servo AF settings can be selected
to suit the subject.
Press the
INFO
button
Content
displays on
the help
screen
Moving the purple square over Case 1 – Case 6 will
display the name of each case, for example [Case1
Versatile multi-purpose setting]. If you want more
detailed information, you can press the INFO button.
This will display the help screen containing
information about shooting scene examples and
which settings to alter and when.
Pushing button while any of [Case] is
indicated in display, then text information of AF
Setting Characteristics or Shooting Scene
Example is indicated.

8 9
Parameter default settings
Subject tracking sensitivity [0]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking [0]
AF point auto switching [0]
Single-Point
Case1AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Precise and accurate focusing is possible for a wide
range of subjects - Versatile multi-purpose setting
The [AF Configuration Tool] [Case 1] is the basic
AI Servo AF setting on the EOS 5D Mark III. As
its name indicates, it is versatile and achieves a
high level of tracking performance in a wide
variety of scenes.
Equipped with AI Servo AF III, the EOS 5D Mark
III has improved flexibility in handling a variety
of moving subjects, and superior prediction of
movement for more accurate focusing. Even
with a variety of difficult elements such as
extremely fast movement, sudden changes in
speed, and interruptions by obstacles, AI Servo
AF III overcomes these and is able to capture
the subject.
Case 1 is the recommend setting to start
shooting with, Case 1 will provide great results
when shooting a variety of sports and moving
subjects. When more specific settings for
individual cases are desired, please try Case 2 –
Case 6 to match shooting conditions.
Case 1 can be used to great
advantage when shooting
moving subjects, making it
possible to accurately capture
fast subject.
AF on the EOS 5D Mark III
is equipped with a new
focus tracking algorithm,
AI Servo AF III. It supports
an even greater variety of
subject movement than
before, and by utilizing
the high level tracking
per formance of the AI
Ser vo AF III, and Case 1
configuration setting, it
can handle many different
shooting conditions.
AI Servo AF III makes it
possible to carry out
precise focus for
subjects in a wide
variety of conditions

10 11
Case2AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Continue to focus-track even when the subject
momentarily moves from the AF points
Effective when shooting scenes with fast moving subjects, or when an obstacle
momentarily appears in front of the subject tarily appears in front of the subject
Parameter default settings
Subject tracking sensitivity [-1]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking [0]
AF point auto switching [0]
Example of a fast
moving subject
where the focus
has shifted to
the background
(photo2). By
selecting Case 2
for situations like
this, it will be
easier to focus
track the subject.
Try selecting Case 2 when
shooting a tennis player with
fast side to side movement.
The subject will be tracked
even when they move away
from the AF points.
Case 2 is an effective setting for shooting fast
moving subjects when they move away from
the selected AF point, or when obstacles may
momentarily obscure the subject. Sometimes
when the subject moves from the selected AF
point, focus can shift to the background
(resulting in an out of focus subject), similarly
when an obstacle obscures the subject, focus
can shift to the obstacle. By selecting Case 2 in
situations like these, focus will attempt to
continue to track the desired subject. When a
subject moves away from the AF points for an
extended period (such as swimmers doing the
butterfly stroke, or sports where the subject is
hidden for intervals), even better performance
may be achieved by manually setting the
[Tracking sensitivity] parameter to [-2].
1 2

12 13
Case3AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Focus instantly on subjects that move into the AF points
Effective when you want to continuously photograph targeted athletes one after the other
Parameter default settings
Subject tracking sensitivity
[Responsive: +1]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking [+1]
AF point auto switching [0]
Case 3 is the ideal setting for situations when
you want to focus quickly between subjects in
the AF points. In Case 3, the [Tracking
sensitivity] parameter is set to [+1]. As a result,
subjects that come into the AF points will be
focused on more quickly. This setting is most
effective when subjects appear suddenly in the
frame (for example photographing skiers in an
alpine skiing downhill race,). Other shooting
situations, this setting can be extremely effective
is when switching between different subjects
you want to shoot (for example, at the start of
a bicycle road race, when you want to shoot
continuously and switch from cyclist to cyclist
while focusing).
When set to Case 3, if the subject moves away
from the AF points, the camera may quickly
refocus on a different subject or background, in
contrast to Case 2. Therefore, it is recommended
that you use this setting only when you have a
particular objective as indicated above.
A scene with cyclists coming towards
the camera. While focusing on the
lead cyclist you may wish to switch
focus to the other cyclists whilst
continuously shooting. In this
situation, by selecting Case 3, you
can l achieve the desired focus on
each subject.
2. Focus on the lead cyclist 3. Focus on the right side cyclist 4. Focus on the left side cyclist
1. Shoot the whole group while
focusing on the cyclist in the center

14 15
Case4AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Focus track subjects that can accelerate or decelerate quickly
Effective when a subject's speed changes rapidly, or in sports where subjects
stop or change direction
Parameter default settings
Subject tracking sensitivity [0]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking [+1]
AF point auto switching [0]
Continuously track players as they suddenly slow down and speed up
When shooting sports, there are many
situations where it will be necessary to deal
with fast moving subjects. Subjects suddenly
going from static to moving or sudden stopping
can occur in various sports and situations and it
can be difficult for the AF system to judge
accurately, In these situations, Case 4 is most
effective. With the [Accelerate / decelerate
Tracking] parameter set to [+1], the AI Servo AF
will work to focus track any changes in speed,
including sudden stops and acceleration. This
makes Case 4 the most effective setting for
shooting soccer, rugby, basketball or sports
where there is a lot of running and stopping, as
well as changes of direction. It is also effective
for cornering during motor sports (sudden
deceleration and acceleration).
For example in soccer.
A player dribbling at
high speed stops
suddenly in front of
a defender, changes
direction and then
begins to sprint
again. By using Case
4 the AF system reacts
to sudden changes
in speed, allowing
continuous and
accurate focusing.

16 17
Case5AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Focus on subjects with erratic movement
Suitable for sports and fast action where traditionally AF systems have difficulty tracking
Parameter default settings
Subject tracking sensitivity [0]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking [0]
AF point auto switching [+1]
Case 5 is most effective for subjects with large
amount of movements which could occur in
any direction. This setting works in 61-point
automatic selection AF, Zone AF, and AF point
expansion modes only. In Case 5, [AF pt auto
switching] is set to [+1], when the subject
moves away from the manually selected AF
point (AF points focused on initially with Zone
AF), focusing automatically switches to other AF
points that contain the subject. As a result, even
when the subject continuously leaves the
selected AF point, it is possible to increase the
ratio of photos that are in focus. This setting is
most effective when shooting subjects with
erratic movement such as figure skating,
skateboarding, and inline skating.
Using Case 5 when
photographing a
figure skater making
a big jump (the AF
area selection mode
is set to [AF point
expansion]). It is
possible to track the
skater's movements
by letting the camera
switch between AF
points.
Inline skating on a half-pipe. Capturing the moments when the skater is jumping and
twisting is easier with Case 5.
It is possible to focus on subjects that move erratically
and could move in any direction
Blue color of focus point is for explanation only, and actually there is no blue indication available.

18 19
Case6AF Configuration Tool [Presets]
Focus on subjects with erratic movement and changes in speed
Effective when shooting sports that feature lots of quick movements
Parameter default settings
Subject tracking sensitivity [0]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking [+1]
AF point auto switching [+1]
Case 6 is a setting that combines features of
both Case 4 (support for sudden changes in
speed), and Case 5 (support for erratic
movement in any direction). [Accel./decel.
tracking] and [AF pt auto switching] parameters
are both [+1].
Therefore, Case 6 is an effective setting for
subjects that stop and start suddenly, but also
have erratic movement which could happen in
any direction, it works during Auto selection
61-point AF, Zone AF, and AF point expansion
only.
Shooting subjects that are most appropriate for
this setting include rhythmic gymnastics which
includes large movements with complete stops.
A rhythmic gymnast
making sudden big
jumps can be captured
when shooting with
Case 6 which can
focus on subjects with
sudden movement,
and erratic movement.
Continuous focusing
is possible for large
movements and
changes in speed.
Blue color of focus point is for explanation only, and actually there is no blue indication available.

20 21
[Locked on : -] [Responsive : +]
20 21
Subject tracking characteristicsAF Configuration Tool [Parameters]
This setting allows obstacles that pass in front of the subject
to be ignored, as well as focusing on new subjects
[Locked on] can be effective when an obstacle crosses in front of the subject and when
focus jumps to the background,
With the AF Configuration Tool on the EOS 5D
Mark III, not only can you select from Case 1 -
Case 6, but three parameters for each can be
adjusted individually.
[Tracking sensitivity] is the parameter that can
be set to track a subject that the AF point had
been following until a different subject (or
background) got in the way.
The [Locked on: -2/-1] setting excludes subjects
that come into the AF point as obstacles, and
continues to focus on the original subject .
Selecting -2 results in the targeted subject being
tracked for a longer time before focus changes
to subject now in the AF point.
The [Responsive: +1/+2] setting determines that
subjects that come into the AF point are new
subjects to be focused, and quickly focuses. It is
also effective when you want to quickly focus
on subjects that are hidden and appear
suddenly.
An example where [Locked
on: -2/-1] is more effective
When another player, or a
referee crosses in front of the
subject and focus can shift to the
foreground/background
An example where
[Responsive: +1/+2] is
effective
When you want to focus on an
athlete who appears suddenly in
the frame.
Example where the referee momentarily
appears in front of the player being
tracked, then the player appeares again.
With the [Locked on: -1] setting, the
referee in the foreground is not focused
on, and the AF system continuously tracks
the player.
Example where a skateboarder appeared
suddenly from the far wall. In a situation
like this, setting to [Responsive: +1/+2]
makes it possible to focus even quicker on
the skater that just appeared. (Photo top
left, shown to illustrate scene prior to the
skateboarder appearing,)
Choose any of
[Case] and push
button for
Tracking sensitivity,
then adjust level
with5
button.

22 2322 23
[0] [+1]
Accelerate / decelerate Tracking characteristicsAF Configuration Tool [Parameters]
Set tracking for subjects that move or stop suddenly
[+1/+2] is effective for fast sports which may include sudden stop-start motion
[Accel./decel. tracking] is a tracking setting for
subjects that experience significant changes in
speed, move or stop suddenly. The default
setting is [0], which is suited for shooting
subjects that move at steady speeds, .
[+1/+2] is suited to shooting subjects that stop/
change direction suddenly or accelerate/
decelerate suddenly, enabling it to continue to
focus on the subject. +2 can handle greater
changes in speed than +1, however, it can also
be more prone to be affected by slight
movements of the subject causing temporarily
unstable focus accuracy.
Other parameters are the same, so first try
shooting with default settings, then increase
the setting to [+1] and then [+2] settings when
more effective settings are desired.
Examples where the [0]
setting is effective
Examples where the [+]
setting more effective
A track and field example where an
athlete is running directly towards the
camera. [0] is most suitable for taking
shots of subjects in this situation.
Track and field events where
constant speed is common
Sports where athletes movement
sudden stop or start
Example of a long-jump landing. As a
result of the athlete suddenly decelerating
as they land, a normal setting may not be
able to capture it, however, it is possible
to continue focusing on the athlete with
[Accelerate / decelerate Tracking] set to
[+1].
Choose any of
[Case] and push
button for
Accel. / decel.
Tracking, then
adjust level with5
button.
Blue color of focus point is for explanation only, and actually there is no blue indication available.

24 25
Change the level of “Accelerate / decelerate Tracking” and “AF point auto switching”
to appropriate for shooting result.
Tip for AF setting
24 25
AF pt auto switching characteristicsAF Configuration Tool [Parameters]
Set how rapidly the AF point switches to a new AF point
for moving subjects
[+1/+2] setting is most effective for sports with lots of movement where the subject can
easily move out of the selected AF point
The [AF pt auto switching] parameter is used
for setting characteristics of AF point switching
when the subject has a lot of movements. This
parameter is only for switching between
multiple AF points, so it is unavailable when
using AF area selection modes [Single-point
Spot AF] and [Single-point AF]. The [0] setting is
a standard setting for moderate switching of AF
points. The [+1/+2] settings are used when
shooting subjects with erratic movement which
could happen in any directions. When a
manually selected AF point (AF point being
focused during Zone AF) leaves the subject, it
will rapidly switch to surrounding AF points to
capture the subject. Use the [+] setting when
you want the camera to automatically decide
(switch) to use a new AF point, and the [0]
setting is used when you want to place
emphasis on manually selected AF points to
track the subject.
[0] [+1]
Examples where [0] is most effective, Sports with comparatively big
movements, and are not very fast
Examples where [+] is effective, fast moving sports with big movements,
where the AF points can lose the subject easily
Example of a golf
bunker shot. The
[0] setting is
recommended
when shooting
subjects that do
not move signifi-
cantly.
A rhythmic gymnast
showing lot s of
movements in all
directions. Use the
[+1] setting in
order to capture
the movement by
taking advantage
of rapid shifting
AF points.
“Accelerate / decelerate Tracking” and “AF point auto switching” are absolutely some part of Camera’s automatic
functions. Therefore it is not always possible that these automatic functions reflect 100% of your intended idea. If
you feel uncomfortable with shooting result, try to change the effect level of their functions.
Blue color of focus point is for explanation only, and actually there is no blue indication available.
Choose any of
[Case] and push
button for AF
pt auto switching,
then adjust level
with5
button.

26 27
AF area selection modes
Change the AF point selection to match your
the shooting style
Choose whether only one AF point is used, or select from a vast array of AF selection options
The AF area selection
modes make it possible
to set how many of
the 61-point AF are
available to be used.
Set the selection
method of AF points
that best matches
the subject and
shooting conditions.
It is p ossible to
fo cus on a very
narrow areas
with a single
manually selec-
ted point.
The default sett-
ing. With this mode
it is possible to
fo cus with a
single manually
selected point.
After pressing the Sbutton, each time the button is pressed, the [AF area selection
mode] changes. By setting the menu [AF4] tab's [AF area selection method] to [S-> Main
Dial], after pressing the Sbutton, you can switch the mode with the Main Dial if you
prefer.
AF modes can be
selected to match
the subject and
conditions
Single-point
Spot AF
Single-point
AF
Focus using one
m a n u a l l y
selected point
assisted by 4
other AF points
(up, down, left,
and right).
Focus using one
manually selected
point assisted by
the surrounding
points.
AF point expansion
(four surrounding
points)
AF point expansion
(eight surrounding
points)
The 61 AF points
are divided into
nine zones, and
focus is made
with the AF po-
ints in the s el-
ected zone.
All AF points are
use d with this
mode, and the
camera selects
and focuses auto-
matically.
Zone AF 61-point
automatic
selection AF
Using only one AF point
Press the Sbutton
How to set the AF area selection mode
Using multiple AF points (zone)
The mode is changed each time the button is pressed
The EOS 5D Mark III is equipped with 61-point
AF. Not only can all these AF points each be
selected individually, but by also automatic
switching between multiple AF points to track
the subject, using all 61 AF points. The [AF area
selection mode] setting allows the selection of
these AF point modes.
The two types of modes that you can manually
select a single AF point to focus with are
[Single-point Spot AF] and [Single-point AF].
The four modes that can switch automatically
between multiple AF points to capture moving
subjects are AF point expansion (Manual
selection, 4 points [Up, down, left, and right]),
AF point expansion (Manual selection,
surrounding 8 points), Zone AF, and Auto
selection of 61 AF points (during AI Servo AF).
Mode features are explained from P. 27 - 35, so
you can select the mode best suited to your
subject's characteristics and shooting scene.
There are six AF area selection modes to choose from
Single-point AF is an easy to use mode for still
life photos etc. in One-shot AF
Single-point AF is a mode where one manually selected AF point is used to
focus. For experienced photographers or when it is easy to track the subject
with a single AF point, AI Servo AF can be utilized when continuously
shooting moving subjects, however, this mode is more effective for shooting
still life and landscapes with One-shot AF mode.

28 29
AF area selection mode [Spot AF]
Focusing on a small or narrow area
It is possible to focus on pinpoints such as the eye when a helmet is being worn
When set to [Single-point spot AF], a small rectangle is
displayed inside the manually selected AF point.
Snapshot of a BMX
rider wearing a
helmet. Focus was
pinpointed on the
eye using [Single-
point spot AF].
[Single-point spot
AF] is effective when
there is something
like the edge of the
helmet, or visor near
the eye you want to
focus on. With
standard AF systems
this can result in the
AF system focusing
on these edges
rather than eye of
the subject.
[Single-point spot AF] mode can be used to
focus on a small area of the subject. This option
makes it possible to focus on the exact area
even when there is an obstacle near the area
you want to focus on. A common example
when shooting sports is when you want to
focus on the eyes of a rider wearing a helmet
(see photos above). With normal settings, the
AF point can easily get caught on the edge of
the helmet near the eye, resulting in the camera
focus this edge. In situations like this, [Single-
point Spot AF] makes it possible to focus more
accurately on the rider’s eye. As [Single-point
Spot AF] only focuses on one very small area, it
is not really suited to capturing fast moving
subjects when set to AI Servo AF and may take
longer to focus than other AF area selection
modes.
All focus points are superimposed on image because of explanation purpose only.

30 31
AF area selection mode AF point expansion
For fast moving subjects that are difficult to track
with a single AF point
This mode is ideal for sports photography
Shooting with AF
point expansion
(up, down, left,
and right)
AF point
expansion
(surrounding
points)
Viewfinder display of
[AF point expansion].
The manually selected
AF point lights up
red.
[AF point expansion] mode can be used for a wide range of sporting events with erratic movement. [AF point
expansion (Up, down, left, and right)] was able to accurately track the dribbling soccer player.
As switching of the AF point takes place centered on the selected AF point with [AF point expansion], this mode
makes it easy to obtain the desired composition. This high jump athlete was captured with [AF point expansion
(surrounding)].
[Up, down, left, and right] and [surrounding] can be selected according to the difficulty
of reading the movement, and the relative importance to the central AF point
Hints and tips
When shooting subjects which might be difficult to determine movement, select [surrounding] mode,
and when you want to focus on the area the covered by central (manually selected) AF point best to
select the [Up, down, left, and right] mode.
[AF point expansion] is an [AF area selection
mode] that is best selected when shooting
sports. Using this setting shifts the focus point
used from a manually selected AF point, to an
adjacent (up, down, left, and right, or
surrounding) AF point, to aid focus tracking.
When using this setting it is easier to obtain the
desired composition as the subject is captured
centering around the manually selected AF
point. Based on the subject's movement
characteristics, (i.e. likelihood of subject moving
from the selected AF point) and the size of the
subject within the frame, select either [AF point
expansion] or [AF area selection mode]. In
addition, when the subject has a lot of
movement, setting Case 5 or Case 6 from the
AF Configuration Tool is also recommended.
All focus points are superimposed on image because of explanation purpose only.
Blue color of focus point is for explanation only, and actually there is no blue indication available.

32 33
AF area selection mode [Zone AF]
Effective for capturing subjects within a known area
For larger subjects or subjects that subjects moving over a larger area
A photo of a moment
of action in fencing
shot with [Zone AF].
In order to focus on
the fencer's facial
area, this shot was
taken by selecting
the upper right zone.
The selected AF points display in [Zone AF].
The 61 AF points are divided into three blocks, left, center, and right, and each
has upper, central, and lower zones, and the desired location can be selected
from these nine zones.
Selection can be made from nine focusing zones
With the [Zone AF] mode, one of the nine
focusing zones can be selected, and the AF
point is automatically selected from within that
zone. Zone AF differs from [AF point expansion]
with it’s manually selected AF point, which AF
tracking is based around. With Zone AF the
camera decides where to focus on the subject
within the zone, rather than targeting the
subject (area) that you want to follow closely.
This is more suited for situations where pinpoint
focusing is required (the subject has no
obstacles that may block the AF points). This
mode is easy to use when you want to focus on
areas of the subject that are a larger size,
making it possible to easily capture the
appropriate area.
All focus points are superimposed on image because of explanation purpose only.
Blue color of focus point is for explanation only, and actually there is no blue indication available.

34 35
AF area selection mode Auto selection of 61 AF points
AI Servo AF with all 61 points used for automatic tracking
Ideal for moving subjects that the old AF systems struggle with
Shooting started by pinpointing focus on the
leader of a cycling road race with a manually
selec ted AF point. While taking continuous
shots, the camera was moved to the left so the
following cyclists on the left of the leader are
rendered beautifully out of focus in the
background.
When using [One-Shot AF], a single AF point is selected automatically from the
61 points. When using [AI Servo AF], AF starts from the manually selected AF
point and then selects the most appropriate from all 61 points.
One-Shot AF AI Servo AF
Capture the subject with an AF point near
the center, and then by moving the camera
to the left, you can compose a photo with
space on the left side of the frame.
Hints and tips
With “AI Servo AF” mode, the shooting starts
from one AF frame that is optionally selected.
So selec t one of any frames covering the
position where object capturing starts. In
addition, it will be easy to continue tracking
thence very convenient, if the same start
position is selected for Single Point AF and
then AF area is switched to 61 Point
Automatic Selection AF.
When using [Auto selection of 61 AF points]
during [AI Servo AF], focusing will start from
the manually selected AF point, the camera will
the automatically change the AF point selecting
from all 61 points as the subject moves. The AF
points are arranged in a wide area so it is useful
for capturing and tracking of subjects, however,
depending on the shooting conditions or if the
subject is small, tracking may not be possible so
caution is necessary. [Auto selection of 61 AF
points] is effective when shooting subjects with
movements that cannot be captured with [AF
point expansion] or [Zone AF] (figure skating
jump scenes for example).
Another effective use is when you want to take
action images for publication/articles with lots
of space in the composition for text etc. In the
examples above shooting began by capturing
the targeted cyclist first with a manually
selected AF point (in the center etc.). From
there, while continuous shooting and moving
the camera (lens) to the left or right, it is
possible to position the lead cyclist off to one
side and include a lot of background (focusing
continues to track the cyclist by automatically
switching AF points).
All focus points are superimposed on image because of explanation purpose only.

36 3736 37
EF24mm f/1.4L USM EF24mm f/1.4L II USM EF28mm f/1.8 USM EF35mm f/1.4L USM EF35mm f/2
EF50mm f/1.0L USM EF50mm f/1.2L USM EF50mm f/1.4 USM EF50mm f/1.8 EF50mm f/1.8 II
EF85mm f/1.2L USM EF85mm f/1.2L II USM EF85mm f/1.8 USM EF100mm f/2 USM EF135mm f/2L USM
EF135mm f/2L USM + Ext EF1.4x EF135mm f/2.8 (with soft focus) EF200mm f/1.8L USM
EF200mm f/1.8L USM + Ext EF1.4x EF200mm f/2L IS USM EF200mm f/2L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF200mm f/2.8L USM EF200mm f/2.8L II USM EF300mm f/2.8L USM EF300mm f/2.8L IS USM
EF300mm f/ 2.8L IS II USM
EF400mm f/2.8L USM EF400mm f/2.8L II USM EF400mm f/2.8L IS USM EF400mm f/ 2.8L IS II USM TS-E45mm f/2.8*
TS-E90mm f/2.8* EF16-35mm f/2.8L USM
EF16-35mm f/ 2.8L II USM EF17-35mm f/2.8L USM EF20-35mm f/2.8L
EF28-70mm f/2.8L USM
EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM
EF14mm f/2.8L II USM
EF20mm f/2.8 USM
EF24mm f/2.8
EF24mm f/2.8 IS USM
EF28mm f/2.8 IS USM
EF24-70mm f/2.8L USM
EF28mm f/2.8
41-point cross-type AF points and 5 Dual Cross -f/2.8 AF points can be used with many lenses
f/2.8 and f/5.6 cross-type AF
(dual-cross AF)
f/5.6 cross-type AF
f/5.6 (horizontal-line focusing) AF
f/4 (vertical-line focusing) + f/5.6
(horizontal-line focusing) cross-type AF
f/2.8
cross-type AF
f/4.0
vertical-line
focusing AF
f/5.6
vertical-line
focusing AF
f/5.6
horizontal-line
focusing AF
Lens
Major lenses
Major lenses
EOS 5D Mark III 61-Point High-Density Reticular AF Cross-type Points
The 61-point AF has numerous cross-type points for
great tracking performance
Multi-point cross focusing is possible even using lenses with a maximum
aperture f-number of f/4
This diagram shows the
distribution of the 61-point
cross-type AF points in the EOS
5D Mark III. The five AF points at
the center operate as dual cross
type AF points at f/2.8, 41 cross-
type AF points are available for
f/2.8-f/4 lenses and the centre
21 AF points serve as cross type
with f/5.6. This makes it possible
to focus with high precision and
high tracking performance with
the many AF points.
AF focusing is possible with 61 points. All
AF area selection modes can be chosen.
EF400mm F2.8L IS II USM EF85mm F1.2L II USM
*The colored AF points are for illustrative purpose only. This does not represent the
actual viewfinder display.
Up to 41-point cross-type AF with f/4 lenses, enabling superior tracking performance with most lenses
Group A
41-point cross-type AF, with five f/2.8
dual-cross AF points at the center
Group D
31-point cross-type AF, with one f/2.8 dual-cross
AF point at the center
Group B
41-point cross-type AF, with one f/2.8 dual-cross
AF point at the center
By increasing number of AF points greater
freedom of composition is possible. The large
number of cross-type AF points improves
tracking performance. And as a result of two-
line AF sensors in a zigzag pattern, tracking
performance is improved for low contrast
subjects as well.
Newly developed 61-point AF sensor
The AF system of the EOS 5D Mark III has many
attractive features such as the high level of
composition freedom with 61 different AF
points, AF area selection modes that utilize the
merits of the multi-point AF system, and
implementation of the AF Configuration Tool
which takes advantage of the improved AI
Servo AF. In addition to these, is the high
precision and improved tracking performance
Most large-aperture lenses with a maximum
aperture of f/2.8, (or lower f-number values) are
in Group A. With this group, the five f/2.8 dual-
cross AF points, and the left and right f/4 and
f/5.6 cross-type AF points (20 points) can be
of each AF point to capture the subject. With
the EOS 5D Mark III AFfocusing system, most
f/2.8 - f/4 lenses can utilize the high-
performance 41-point cross-type AF points. As
Canon produce a large number of high
performance f/2.8 and f/4 AF points, this makes
it possible for larger aperture lenses to achieve
an even higher level of focusing precision with
these AF points than ever before.
used. There are a total of 41 cross-type points
including the f/5.6 cross-type points. Lenses
with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 in Group B,
will only have a single f/2.8 dual-cross AF point
in the center.
61-point AF (1) The number and placement of cross-type points used by the f/2.8 lenses
AF focusing is possible with 61 points. All AF area selection modes
are available.
AF focusing is possible with 61 points. All AF area selection modes
are available.
* Focus confirmation light works during manual focus (without any tilt or shift movements).
“Ext EF1.4x” is an abbreviation of various EF 1.4x Extenders.

38 39
Group F
21-points cross-type available, total of 47 AF
points available to select
Group G
15-points cross-type available, total of 33 AF
points available to select
EF 50mm f/2.5 compact macro + life size converter EF EF100mm f/2.8 Macro USM
EF400mm f/5.6L USM EF500mm f/4.5L USM EF300mm f/4L USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF300mm f/4L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x EF400mm f/4 DO IS USM + Ext EF1.4x EF500mm f/4L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF600mm f/4L USM + Ext EF1.4x EF600mm f/4L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x EF200mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF2x
EF200mm f/2.8L II USM + Ext EF2x EF300mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF2x EF300mm f/2.8L IS USM + Ext EF2x
EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM + Ext EF2x EF400mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF2x EF400mm f/2.8L II USM + Ext EF2x
EF400mm f/2.8L IS USM + Ext EF2x EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM + Ext EF2x EF500mm f/4L IS II USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF600mm f/4L IS II USM + Ext EF1.4x EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF2x EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM + Ext EF2x
EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM + Ext EF2x EF70-200mm f/4L USM + Ext EF1.4x EF70-200mm f/4L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM EF70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM EF70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM
EF70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 DO IS USM EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
EF50mm f/2.5 Compact Macro EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM EF300mm f/4L IS USM
EF200mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF1.4x EF200mm f/2.8L II USM + Ext EF1.4x EF300mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF300mm f/2.8L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x EF300mm f/2.8L IS II USM + Ext EF1.4x EF400mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF400mm f/2.8L II USM + Ext EF1.4x EF400mm f/2.8L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF135mm f/2L USM + Ext EF2x EF200mm f/1.8L USM + Ext EF2x EF200mm f/2L IS USM + Ext EF2x
EF8-15mm f/4L Fish eye USM EF17-40mm f/4L USM EF24-105mm f/4L IS USM
EF70-200mm f/4L USM EF70-200mm f/4L IS USM EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM + Ext EF1.4x EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM + Ext EF1.4x EF500mm f/4L IS USM
EF500mm f/4L IS II USM EF600mm f/4L IS USM EF600mm f/4L IS II USM
38 39
EF180mm f/3.5L Macro
USM
EF180mm f/3.5L Macro
USM + Ext EF1.4x
EF1200mm f/5.6L USM
Lenses
EF800mm f/5.6L IS USM
EF35-350mm f/3.5-5.6L
USM
Major lenses
Major lenses Major lenses
EOS 5D Mark III 61-Point High-Density Reticular AF Cross-type Points
41-point cross-type AF points can be used
Majority of lenses can make use of the central 21-point cross-type AF
EF70-200mm f/4L IS USM
EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM
EF 17-40mm f/4 L USM
EF70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM
In Group C, 41-point cross-type AF points can
be used with lenses having an f/4 maximum
aperture (or f/2.8 maximum aperture lenses
using the EF 1.4x Extenders). Of these, the 20
points on the left and right are f/4 and f/5.6
With the exception of a small group of lenses
(groups F and G), almost all lenses that have a
maximum aperture of f/4 or greater are
included in Group E, and can use the 21-point
cross-type AF providing even higher precision
focus in these areas than with previous cameras.
Some macro lenses with a maximum aperture
of f/2.8 are also included.
cross-type AF (f/5.6 cross-type) in the central
area. Many f/2.8 maximum aperture large
aperture telephoto lenses when used with the
various EF 2x Extenders will fit into this group.
61-point AF (2) The number and placement of cross-type points used by the f/4 lenses 61-point AF (3) The number and placement of cross-type points used by the f/5.6 lenses
AF focusing is possible with all 61 points.
All AF area selection modes are available.
AF focusing is possible with 61 points. All
AF area selection modes are available.
AF focusing is possible with 47 points (61-point AF is not possible).
All AF area selection modes can are available.
AF focusing is possible with 33 points (61-point AF is not possible).
All AF area selection modes can are available.
"Ext EF1.4x" an abbreviation of various EF1.4x Extenders
Group C
41-point cross-type AF points available,
and they can be used with a high level
of tracking performance
Group E
The central 21-point cross-type
AF can be used
On the EOS 5D Mark III equipped with a full size sensor, an extender is often used for sports
photography etc. where longer focal lengths are required. When many large aperture
telephoto lenses (200 - 400 mm f/2.8 class) are used with the Extender EF 1.4x attached, the
maximum aperture will become f/4 and these combinations therefore are included in Group C.
High performance AF can be utilized with the 41-point cross-point AF Therefore, offering new
possibilities to use an extender.
Many f/2.8 maximum aperture lenses using a 1.4x extender can utilize 41-point AF
f/2.8 and f/5.6 cross-type AF
(dual-cross AF)
f/5.6 cross-type AF
f/5.6 (horizontal-line focusing) AF
f/4 (vertical-line focusing) + f/5.6
(horizontal-line focusing) cross-type AF