Canon T3I focus using video

[darrell]

What's the trick to utilize auto focus when in video mode?  I can focus manually and have to keep re-focusing.  Help!   

[jfo]

The T3i doesn't autofocus while recording video; that feature is new with the T4i.

When in video / live view mode, though, you should be able to focus using the half-press of the shutter button.

Here's a good discussion (at another forum) about the how's and why's: http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/thread/3149814

[gah80]

When shooting video try to practice manual focus.

We filmed 2 videos using a Canon t3i with Magic Lantern firmware and were able to get some stunning results!

The first video was filmed in the souk of Beirut:

http://youtu.be/EZ5m1Q3oNHk

The second is a stop-motion shot at night with at least 4 seconds of open exposure and heavy laser play:

http://youtu.be/OuY_rjMwhSs

[JonKline]

In time, you can actually learn to like manual focus over auto.

If you want to make manual focus as easy as possible, you can use a follow focus system on rails.  You'll get much more precise and easy-to-adjust focus control.