Manual focus is a method of adjusting a camera lens to achieve sharp focus by either rotating the lens mechanically or using a motorised mechanism, often by entering a specific distance on the camera. Many cameras provide focusing aids, such as a split-image viewfinder where two halves of the image align when in focus, or LED indicators that signal when the subject is correctly focused.
Understanding manual focus is important for photographers who require precise control over sharpness, especially in low-light conditions, macro photography, or when shooting through obstacles like glass. Mastery of manual focus allows for greater creative control and ensures critical areas of the image remain sharply defined.