40D - AF-ON/AE Lock questions

[srand]

I'm a bit confused as to how the AF-ON and AE Lock buttons on the 40D actually work. I've read the manual and have experimented with C. FnIV-01 but I can't seem to figure it out.

Currently I use setting 1, and this works alright. With this setting pressing the shutter half-way starts metering and AF, then holding AF-ON locks the focus so I can recompose the scene. My question is this, is there a way to have AF-ON start and stop AF instead, so that I won't have to hold down the button?

Next question, after I press AE Lock, exposure is locked until I either change modes, or enter the menu. I know I can press it again to re-meter the scene, but how do I have it go back to automatic? I would have thought it would unlock after releasing the shutter, but it stays locked.

[Bagsjr]

Great question. I can't figure it out either. Waitig answer.

[notsotechie]

Hang on a little longer. An Answer is bound to pop up.
Why not reset all the function back to default value and reread the manul again.
I belive the cf is design for everyone use so some would like that funnction to be as input or other setting input.
experiment around what you feel is more comfortable for your need.
other wise wait a bit longer and some one will give you an input.

[notsotechie]

wow I can't belive their is no help here come on people let give this guy a hand Please.

[jfrancho]

is there a way to have AF-ON start and stop AF instead, so that I won't have to hold down the button?

Setting C.Fn IV-1 to 3 will do this.

[Max@Home]

Originally Posted by notsotechie

wow I can't belive their is no help here come on people let give this guy a hand Please.

notsotechie,

...there is plenty of help, but when a poster asks to basically 'rewrite the manual' on two VERY complex issues (AF and Metering) even *I* am reluctant to answer ...

Writing such a piece would take some precious time, the more as everything should be checked and verified.

...and then you end up with two 'manuals' with different wording, no guarantee that anyone would really benefit, as Manuals tend to not-got-read by many, and this would feel, look, and be worded like just another one...

I favour your earlier idea ('Why not reset all the functions back to default value and reread the manual again, experiment around what you feel is more comfortable for your need.') because then a poster gets truly involved in his camera, and learns by trail and error...

...but I'll try to cook something up this evening... no promise though...

...€0.02...

Kindest regards!

Max@Home

[srand]

Thank you all for the advice. I did spend some more time experimenting, and while I wasn't able to make AF-ON function exactly as I had hoped, I found the settings that work best for me. I also set a shortcut to C.Fn.IV on my menu, as I see how each option could be useful in different situations.

As for the AE lock, well I was wrong, it actually does turn off after I release the shutter. I do wish it would just toggle on and off when I press the button, but it is not a big deal.