How to Fix DSLR Lens Focusing Noises in Video Mode

Understanding the Problem

The focusing mechanism in a DSLR lens often uses small motors to adjust the lens elements, and these motors can generate audible noise. When recording video, the camera’s built-in microphone can pick up these sounds, resulting in distracting clicks, whirs, or buzzing in your audio track. Understanding the source of the problem is the first step towards finding a solution. Consider whether the noise is consistent or intermittent.

Different lenses produce varying levels of noise. Cheaper kit lenses tend to be noisier than higher-end lenses with advanced focusing systems. The type of autofocus mode you’re using can also affect the amount of noise produced. Continuous autofocus, while convenient, often results in more noise than single autofocus.

Solutions for Reducing Focusing Noise

There are several techniques you can employ to minimize or eliminate lens focusing noise in your videos. These range from adjusting your camera settings to using external equipment.

1. Using an External Microphone

One of the most effective solutions is to use an external microphone. An external mic, positioned away from the camera body, is less likely to pick up the sounds generated by the lens. This provides a cleaner audio signal.

• Shotgun Microphones: These are directional microphones that focus on capturing sound from a specific area, reducing ambient noise.
• Lavalier Microphones: Also known as lapel mics, these are small microphones that can be clipped to clothing, providing close and clear audio.
• On-Camera Microphones: Even an on-camera microphone that’s higher quality than the built-in mic can make a significant difference.

Connecting the external microphone to an external audio recorder can further improve the audio quality. This separates the audio recording process from the camera, eliminating any potential interference.

2. Manual Focus

Switching to manual focus is a surefire way to eliminate focusing noise altogether. This requires more skill and attention, but it gives you complete control over the focus point. You can prevent the camera from constantly hunting for focus and creating unwanted noise.

• Practice: Practice focusing manually to become comfortable and proficient.
• Focus Peaking: Many cameras offer focus peaking, which highlights the areas in focus, making manual focusing easier.
• Magnification: Use the camera’s magnification feature to zoom in and ensure precise focus.

While manual focus requires more effort, the resulting audio clarity can be well worth it, especially in situations where focusing noise is particularly problematic.

3. Adjusting Camera Settings

Some camera settings can help reduce focusing noise. Experimenting with different autofocus modes and sensitivity settings can yield positive results.

• Single Autofocus (AF-S): This mode focuses once and then locks the focus point, preventing continuous focusing and noise.
• Reducing Autofocus Sensitivity: Lowering the autofocus sensitivity can make the camera less reactive to minor changes in the scene, reducing unnecessary focusing adjustments.
• Silent Movie Mode: Some DSLRs offer a silent movie mode that prioritizes quiet operation, often at the expense of autofocus speed.

Carefully consider the trade-offs between autofocus performance and noise reduction when adjusting these settings.

4. Using a Lens with a Silent Focusing Motor

Investing in a lens with a silent focusing motor, such as those with ultrasonic motors (USM) or stepping motors (STM), can significantly reduce focusing noise. These lenses are designed to operate quietly, making them ideal for video recording.

• Ultrasonic Motors (USM): Canon’s USM lenses are known for their fast and quiet autofocus.
• Stepping Motors (STM): Canon’s STM lenses are designed for smooth and quiet focusing during video recording.
• Silent Wave Motors (SWM): Nikon’s SWM lenses offer similar benefits with quiet and accurate autofocus.

While these lenses may be more expensive, the improvement in audio quality can justify the investment, especially for serious videographers.

5. Stabilization Techniques

Camera shake can cause the autofocus system to work harder, leading to more noise. Using a tripod or other stabilization device can help minimize these movements and reduce the need for constant focusing adjustments.

• Tripods: Provide stable support, eliminating camera shake.
• Gimbals: Offer dynamic stabilization, allowing for smooth movement while recording.
• Image Stabilization: Some lenses and cameras offer built-in image stabilization, which can compensate for minor movements.

By minimizing camera shake, you can help the autofocus system work more efficiently and quietly.

6. Firmware Updates

Manufacturers often release firmware updates that improve camera performance, including autofocus. Check your camera manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware updates and install them to ensure optimal performance.

• Check Regularly: Visit the manufacturer’s website periodically to check for new updates.
• Read Release Notes: Understand what improvements are included in the update.
• Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when installing the update.

Keeping your camera’s firmware up-to-date can address known issues and improve overall performance, including reducing focusing noise.

Post-Production Noise Reduction

Even with the best techniques, some focusing noise may still be present in your recordings. Fortunately, post-production software offers tools for reducing or eliminating these unwanted sounds.

• Noise Reduction Plugins: Software like Adobe Audition and Audacity offer noise reduction plugins that can identify and remove unwanted sounds.
• Manual Editing: You can manually edit the audio track to remove specific instances of focusing noise.
• Careful Application: Use noise reduction tools sparingly to avoid negatively impacting the overall audio quality.

Post-production noise reduction should be used as a last resort, as it can sometimes introduce artifacts or degrade the audio quality. It’s always better to minimize noise during recording whenever possible.