Best Autofocus Settings for Small Birds | OM-1 Mark II

This video breaks down the autofocus settings I use for photographing small birds with the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II. One of the biggest challenges in bird photography is getting consistent focus on fast-moving, unpredictable birds — especially small subjects hidden in branches or moving quickly through cluttered backgrounds. In this video, I walk through the exact autofocus settings and techniques I use in the field, including real viewfinder screen recordings so you can see exactly how the camera behaves while shooting. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:35 Two Big Mistakes 01:25 Focus Mode 02:08 Target Area Size and Customization 05:13 Subject Detection and Tracking 08:16 Autofocus Settings 10:07 Practical Field Tips 13:39 Closing Thoughts Although this video uses the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II, many of these autofocus concepts can apply to bird photography with other camera systems as well. Camera Gear Used: OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II OM SYSTEM lenses for bird photography If you enjoy bird photography, wildlife photography, and OM SYSTEM camera tutorials, consider subscribing for more field-based photography content and real-world camera tips. OM System Mentorship: https://www.todddewaldphotography.com... Wildlife photography coaching: https://www.todddewaldphotography.com... Members get early access to videos, access to Field Notes Archive, and occasional behind the scenes content. Become a member here:    / @todddewaldphotography   OM SYSTEM Bird Photography Contest: Free to enter Runs May 1-26 2026 Open to all camera systems Thousands of dollars worth in prizes! Enter below: https://explore.omsystem.com/us/en/bi... 🔗 Useful Links 🌿 Website & Social Website: https://www.todddewaldphotography.com Instagram: @todddewaldphotography 📬 Subscribe to My Newsletter https://www.todddewaldphotography.com... 🎓 Private Guiding & Instruction Want to improve faster in the field? I offer personalized, hands-on wildlife photography instruction tailored to your skill level. 👉 Learn more: https://www.todddewaldphotography.com 🎥 Related Video How to Make Your Subject Stand Out in Wildlife Photos | Tips Tuesday 19    • How to Make Your Subject Stand Out in Wild...   📸 Gear I Use The footage for this video was captured mainly using the OM-1 Mark II and lenses below. Explore OM System https://www.jdoqocy.com/click-1014604... OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-1014604... M.Zuiko 150–400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-10146047... M. Zuiko 50-200mm F2.8 IS PRO https://www.tkqlhce.com/click-1014604... OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko Digital 8–25mm F4.0 PRO https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-10146... 👉 Full gear list (affiliate links): https://www.todddewaldphotography.com... These are affiliate links. They help support the channel at no extra cost to you. 🌲 About Me I’m a full-time wildlife and nature photographer based in New England. Through my photography and videos, I aim to share the beauty of the natural world and help others build a deeper connection to nature. @OMSYSTEMCameras #BirdPhotography #OMSYSTEM #OM1MarkII #WildlifePhotography