EOS Rebel XS won't take photo

[34]

When I press the button to take a photo it the image stabilizer ONLY turns doesn't take a photo. It is at half battery... It is a EOS Rebel XS Thanks for any awnsers.

[ebiggs1]

??

[cuda719]

What type of camera are you using and what are the settings your trying to use

[benetta]

canoneos 50d

[Waddizzle]

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@benetta wrote:

canoneos 50d

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I suggest that you start a new thread.

[TCampbell · Accepted solution]

A camera will not take a photo if it is in "One Shot" focus mode and the auto-focus / manufal focus switch on the lens (labeled "AF/MF") is in the auto-focus position AND the camera is unable to lock focus.  

A camera might not be able to lock focus is the lighting is poor and/or if the subject has very poor contrast (a plain featureless subject -- for example if you point your camera straight up into a clear blue sky on a cloudless day -- that would fail to focus even though there is enough light.)

But another reason a camera can fail to focus is if the focusing motor on the lens is malfunctioning.

BUT... if you switch the lens to "manual" focus mode (set AF/MF switch to the MF position) -or- if you change the focus mode to "AI Servo" in the camera, THEN a camera sould take the shot as soon as you press the shutter button completely and it will do this whether it was able to focus or not.

This means we may solve one problem... but reveal another.  Usually switching to manufal focus or focus mode to "AI Servo" solves the problem of the camera refusing to take the shot... but then you're stuck with a camera that wont auto-focus.  

Mostly when the lens can't auto-focus, if there is enough light and the subject has plenty of contrast (it's not featureless) then it means there's a problem with the focus motor on the lens.  You could test that by trying a different lens.

[34]

Thank you so much... I understand now sorry I could not reply earlier, Very Helpful!

[Kazussah]

problem still persists. the shutter is released but it won't take any picture

[John_Q]

Hello Kazussah,

Have you tried a different lens and memory card in the camera? There are some troubleshooting steps that can be done to further narrow down what the issue could be. I would suggest giving our phone support representatives a call. If you would like to speak with a Canon representative, please contact our Technical Support Team at 1-800-652-2666, Monday through Friday between 9:00 am to 6:00 pm ET.