Does Nikon D5600 Have Autofocus?

Autofocus is a useful tool, especially for beginner photographers who are just starting to learn the ins and outs of their cameras. The Nikon D5600 is a great DSLR for those who are new to photography. However, does the Nikon D5600 have autofocus?

We’re here to break down the answers on how to make the autofocus better, which AF mode to use for Nikon cameras, the difference between single and continuous AF modes, and what the AF ON button does.

How do I make my Nikon autofocus better?

To answer the first question, No, the Nikon D5600 does not have an autofocus motor built into the camera body. If you want your D5600 to have autofocus, use the AF-P and AF-S and some of the AF-P type lenses which have the autofocus motor built-in to the lens itself. Nikon has several camera series that do not have autofocus motors built-in, and unfortunately, the D5600 is one of them.

While the D5600 has no built-in autofocus, there are other Nikon cameras that do have autofocus, such as the D7XXX series. No matter the camera, how can I make my focus better?

Make sure both your lens and your camera are switched to autofocus (AF). 

Unlock your back dial. The dial should always be pointed at the camera icon. 

Check the AEL/AFL buttons. You may have accidentally locked your focus. To unlock, click the AE-L and AF-L buttons. 

Double-check your lens. If your lens or sensor is dirty, you’ll have trouble focusing your shot. Use a clean cloth to clean your lens.

What AF mode should I use in Nikon?

Depending on your subject, there are different autofocus modes to use.

AF-S: this mode is best for static subjects, such as landscapes.

AF-C: if you’re tracking something moving, like birds flying or sports, you’ll want to use this mode.

AF-A: for both still and moving subjects in the frame, try this mode. 

AF-F: if you shooting video, this mode is perfect to use. It will automatically track whatever subject is moving and put it in focus.

What is the difference between single and continuous autofocus AF modes?

Now that you know about the different autofocus modes and which to use when what’s the difference between single and continuous AF modes?

Single AF Mode: if you are taking a picture of something static, like a landscape, still life, or portrait–you’ll want to use single autofocus. Once you lock focus on your subject, it will stay in focus unless your subject moves suddenly.

Continuous AF Mode: if you are shooting a moving object, continuous autofocus is your best bet. If, for example, you are trying to photograph a skateboarder in motion; with continuous AF mode, your camera will lock on to your subject and try to keep it in focus while the subject moves.

Related: Best Lenses for Nikon D5600 in 2022

What does the AF ON button do?

On most modern digital cameras, there is an AF ON button. This stands for autofocus on. If your camera has autofocus, it will automatically focus your shot when you half-press the capture button. 

For Nikon cameras, you can reprogram your autofocus, so that it can focus when you click the AF ON button instead of half-pressing the capture button. This is called back-button focusing. 

To do this, go to Custom Settings Menu > Autofocus > AF Activation.

You’ll find two options, “Shutter/AF ON” and “AF ON only”. Choose “AF ON only” to enable back-button focusing.

While the Nikon D5600 does not have autofocus, there are plenty of other great cameras that do, like the Nikon D7XXX series. 

If you have a camera with autofocus, you now know how to fix your autofocus and make it better, which AF modes to use, the difference between single and continuous autofocus modes, and what the AF ON button does. 

If you have any more questions about autofocus, please comment down below. We love to hear your questions and experiences as a photographer!