INTRODUCTION

With the powerful, fast, and flexible Multi-CAM 2000 autofocus module found in the Nikon D2x/D2Hs cameras, air shows are quite popular as subjects. Like shooting almost any high speed subject, a fast camera/lens combo is required.

Don't we all enjoy airplanes and wish that we could fly like the birds? For many of us, photographing high speed planes is a great thrill, and puts us close to the aviation we love. The sounds, smells, and excitment of the crowd are all very appealing.

Let's examine how we can use our Nikon digital cameras to capture striking air show images.

AUTOFOCUS MODES

Air shows are a lot like photographing flying birds, except that the "birds" are bigger and move much faster. I like to use my Group Dynamic AF settings in the cross-shaped "Pattern 1" (custom setting a3). This allows me to select the center AF sensor to focus and follow the airplane, and it allows the plane to move around in the viewfinder without leaving the focus area.

It would be a bit hard to use AF-S or Single Servo autofocus unless you are shooting planes still on the ground. AF-C or Continuous Servo autofocus works much better, because it allows your camera to track and adjust as needed. Even though I like to shoot air shows with Group Dynamic AF in Pattern 1, you might want to experiment with other settings to see if you like them better. If you are unsure of how D2x autofocus works, and how to interpret the manual for all the AF selections, please review the article Understanding Multi-CAM 2000 Autofocus. Several headings in this article relate directly to the use of the various features of the Multi-CAM 2000.

By Nikonian Patrick Godfrey (pateod)

Learn to use the powerful autofocus modes of the D2x/D2Hs for best air show results. The Multi-CAM 2000 article should make them much easier to understand.