Troubleshooting Camera Focus Issues On A D5100

If your Nikon D5100 camera is not focusing, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can try. First, check that your camera is set to autofocus mode and not manual focus mode. Next, ensure that the lens you are using is compatible with the D5100 for autofocus; the D5100 only autofocuses with AF-S and AF-I lenses, and some non-Nikon lenses may not autofocus at all. If your lens is compatible, try cleaning the lens contacts and ensuring that the lens is properly attached to the camera. You can also try resetting your camera to the factory default settings or testing with a different lens to help pinpoint whether the issue is with your camera body or your lens.

Check the lens is set to autofocus

If you're having trouble with autofocus on your Nikon D5100, it's important to check that your lens is set to autofocus. Here are some detailed steps to ensure this:

• Locate the focus mode switch on your lens: Depending on the type of lens you have, there should be a slider, switch, or button that allows you to choose between autofocus and manual focus. On some lenses, this may be indicated with 'AF' for autofocus and 'M' for manual focus. Ensure that your lens is set to autofocus.
• Check your camera settings: In your camera settings, make sure that autofocus is turned on. You can usually find this setting within the camera's menu system. Toggle it to the "on" position if it's not already enabled.
• Set the focus mode: In your camera settings, find the focus mode option. Change this setting to "continuous mode." This will ensure that your camera continuously focuses on your subject as you shoot.
• Try different lenses: If your camera still won't autofocus, try using a different lens if you have one available. This will help you determine whether the issue is with the camera body or the lens itself. If autofocus works with a different lens, then you may need to adjust your settings or consider repairing or replacing your original lens.
• Check your shutter release button: If autofocus still isn't working, the problem could potentially be with your shutter release button. Try using a remote shutter release to see if the issue persists. If the remote doesn't trigger autofocus, it's likely an issue with your camera body and you may need to take it to an authorised service centre for further diagnosis and repair.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your lens is properly set to autofocus and troubleshoot some common issues related to autofocus on your Nikon D5100.

Check the camera is set to autofocus

If your Nikon D5100 is not focusing, there are a few things you can check to ensure the camera is set to autofocus.

First, check the lens itself. There should be a slider control or a button that can switch between autofocus and manual focus. Ensure this is set to autofocus.

Next, check the camera settings. In the settings, you should be able to switch the autofocus "on". Additionally, set the focus mode to "continuous mode".

If these settings are correct, your camera should be able to autofocus. If it is still not focusing, there may be an issue with the shutter release button or the shutter itself. Try using a remote shutter release to see if this helps with focusing.

If none of these steps work, you may need to take your camera to an authorised service centre for further troubleshooting.

Check the back dial is not locked

If your Nikon D5100 camera is not focusing, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to address the issue. One important step is to check that the back dial is not locked. The back dial, also known as the Focus Selector Lock switch, is located on the back of some Nikon cameras and allows you to select AF points using the multi-selector.

Here's how to check if the back dial is locked:

• Locate the back dial: The back dial is usually found encircling the multi-selector, which is typically located on the back of the camera near the thumb grip.
• Check the dial position: The dial has two settings: a dot and an "L." The single dot setting allows you to actively select AF points, while the "L" setting locks the multi-selector and prevents it from working. Ensure that the dial is pointed towards the dot and not the "L" setting.
• Try adjusting the dial: If the dial is set to "L," gently flick it towards the dot setting. Sometimes, the dial can be accidentally bumped, especially if you frequently use back-button focusing.
• Test the camera: After adjusting the dial, try using the autofocus function again to see if it is now working. Take a few test shots to ensure that the autofocus is functioning correctly.

It's important to note that even if the back dial is locked, your lens should still be able to focus. However, you won't be able to switch focus points, which can limit your ability to compose your shots effectively. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that the back dial is unlocked and set to the correct position for optimal camera performance.

Check the focus isn't locked

If your Nikon D5100 camera is not focusing, there are a few things you can check to see if the focus is locked.

Firstly, check the lens itself. There should be a switch on the lens that allows you to toggle between autofocus and manual focus. Ensure that the switch is set to autofocus, which is usually indicated by an "AF" or "A" on the switch.

Next, check the camera settings. Make sure that autofocus is turned on in the camera settings. You can also try setting the focus mode to "continuous mode", which will keep the subject in focus as it moves around the frame.

Another thing to check is the AF Area Mode. The D5100 has an Auto Area Mode, which allows the camera to automatically select the AF point. If you are accidentally changing the AF point with your palm, this mode might be useful. However, the camera will focus on whatever it deems appropriate, which may not always be your desired subject.

If you prefer to have more control over the focus point, you can try using the Single Point mode. This mode allows you to select a specific AF point using the multi-selector, and the camera will only use that point to focus.

Additionally, you can try using back-button focusing. Instead of focusing with a half-press of the shutter button, you would use the AE-L/AF-L button on the back of the camera to focus. This might help if you are accidentally changing the focus point with your palm while holding the camera.

Finally, if none of the above solutions work, there might be an issue with the camera body or lens. Try changing the lens to see if the problem persists. If the new lens also doesn't autofocus, then the issue is likely with the camera body. In this case, you may need to take your camera to a service centre for further troubleshooting.

Check the lens for issues

If your Nikon D5100 camera is not focusing, it is a good idea to check the lens for issues.

First, check that the lens is on the correct setting. The lens should be set to autofocus, not manual focus. On the lens, there should be a slider control or a button that can be moved to switch between auto and manual focus. Make sure this is set to autofocus.

If you have the older 50mm f/1.8D lens, it won't autofocus with the D5100. The newer 50mm f/1.8G will autofocus as it has a focusing motor built into the lens itself.

If the lens is set to autofocus and you are still having issues, try another lens. If the autofocus works with a different lens, then the problem is with your original lens and you will need to buy a new one.

If multiple lenses are having the same issue, then the problem is likely with the camera body. In this case, you should take your camera to a service shop.

Another thing to check is that the lens contacts are clean and the lenses are correctly fitted. If the lens contacts are dirty, gently use a brush to clean them.

If you are still having issues with autofocus, check the camera settings. Make sure autofocus is turned on in the camera settings and that the focus mode is set to "continuous mode".

If you have tried all of these things and are still having issues with autofocus, the problem could be with the shutter release button or the circuitry.

Frequently asked questions