Focusing: The Eyes Have It
It is through the eyes that we allow ourselves to connect on a human-to-human level. This is why it is extremely important to put the focus on your subject’s eyes (Figure 5.9). If your subject is positioned at an angle, try to focus on the eye that is nearest to the camera, as that is where we naturally tend to look first (Figure 5.10).
As you recall from Chapter 1, the 6D has 11 AF (autofocus) points, as well as an Auto setting that allows the camera to choose the AF point. In my experience, the best option for portrait photography is choosing the AF point yourself. This allows you to focus on the proper part of your subject, rather than relying on the camera to know where you would like to focus.
Setting the AF Point
1. Press the AF Point Selection button (A), and look in your viewfinder.
2. Use the Multi-Controller to move the red focus point to the area you want to focus on. (To set it directly in the center, press the Set button. Press the Set button again to return to automatic selection.)
3. You can also make these changes by using the Quick Control screen. Press the Q button on the back of your camera, and then use the Multi-Controller to scroll to the AF point selection icon (B). Press the Set button to enter the AF point selection menu, and then use the Multi-Controller to select an AF point.
Catchlight
A catchlight is the light that reflects off a subject’s eyes (Figure 5.11). To achieve this look, position your subject in front of a light source, such as the sun or your flash. This light will then reflect off the surface of the eyes as bright highlights.
