The Camera Doesn't Focus Automatically

IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.

The situations below may cause the camera to have issues with auto focus:

• The lens is fogged due to dust, fingerprints, etc.

  If the lens is dirty, wipe it gently with a soft cloth such as a cleaning cloth. Then, check if the issue is resolved.

  IMPORTANT: Don't expose the product to chemicals such as those in paint thinner, naphtha, alcohol, disposable wipes, insect repellent, insecticides, or sunscreen when you wipe the lens. These products may cause the lens coating to become scratched.

• The lens is fogged due to condensation

  Turn off the camera and leave it in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Then, wait about an hour for the moisture to evaporate, and check if the issue is resolved.

• The focus mode is set to manual

  If the focus mode is set to manual, switch it to the auto mode. Then, check if the camera will focus. For details, refer to the camera manual. Manuals are posted on your model support page.

• If you are trying to shoot a subject that is difficult to focus or under conditions in which it's difficult to focus

  Condition under which it's difficult to focus	How to resolve the problem
  The subject is too close to the camera.	Each lens has a minimum shooting distance. The camera will not focus unless you maintain a certain distance from the subject. If the subject is too close to the camera, move away from the subject.
  Darkened conditions such as a nighttime scene, illuminations, or fireworks	Set the focus to the manual mode, and then focus on the subject.
  A subject with poor contrast, such as the sky, a beach, or a lawn
  A subject that changes constantly, such as waves or a waterfall
  A subject whose brightness is very different from its surroundings, such as the sun or a light bulb
  A subject with a continuous pattern, such as the exterior of a building
  A fast-moving subject	If your camera is equipped with the following functions, try using them: Tracking focus (Lock-on AF): The camera tracks and maintains the focus on the subject. Face Priority function: When shooting human subjects, the camera focuses on detected faces with higher priority.
  Subjects in the focusing area with different focal distances

If the procedures didn't resolve the issue, or none of the above conditions apply, repair may be required.  Go to Product Repair.