Why Do Both My Sony Telephoto Lenses on My Sony A6000 Camera Focus Manually But Not Automatically?

Have you ever found yourself in the frustrating situation where your beloved Sony A6000 camera suddenly stops focusing automatically, despite having the latest firmware and no error messages? This article delves into various troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue, ensuring your camera performs as expected.

Common Causes and Solutions

Firstly, consider whether your problem might be as simple as a lens or camera setting being adjusted by mistake. Sometimes, camera settings can default to manual mode, causing the autofocus to fail. Here’s how to check and reset your settings:

Step 1: Check Lens Settings

The most common culprit is the lens itself. On Sony lenses, especially telephoto lenses, there might be a switch to manually switch from autofocus to manual focus. If you are unsure about the location of this switch, refer to your lens’ manual or look online for guides, as many manuals are available free of charge on the Sony website.

Step 2: Review Menu Settings

Even if the lens does not have a manual switch, the camera settings could be set to manual focus. Sony A6000 cameras are well-known for their detailed menu options. Check the ‘AF Mode’ setting in the shooting menu. This switch, though often easily overlooked, can be the culprit behind manual focus only issues.

Hardware and Software Reset

If changing the settings did not resolve the issue, it might be time to consider hardware and software resets. These steps might help in resetting the camera to factory settings and eliminating any software-based issues:

Step 1: Remove the Main Battery

One of the simplest yet effective ways to reset your camera is by removing the main battery. This action is crucial as it resets the camera’s software settings to their default values. Here’s how to do it:

Turn off the camera. Locate the battery compartment and remove the main battery. Wait for one minute. Reinstall the battery and turn the camera back on.

Be careful not to confuse the main battery with the spare or backup battery. Always refer to your camera manual for detailed instructions on how to locate the battery compartment.

Step 2: Reset Time and Date

After resetting the camera, make sure to set the correct date and time. These settings are crucial for the camera to function correctly and are often the forgotten details during a reset. Incorrect settings can lead to further camera issues.

Step 3: Advanced Troubleshooting

If the above steps do not resolve your issue, you might need to seek further assistance. Sony’s customer support can provide detailed guidance and troubleshooting tips. They can guide you through more advanced steps or take your camera for professional repair if necessary.

Conclusion and Final Steps

While troubleshooting this issue, it is important to remember that patience and attention to detail are key. If your Sony A6000 camera continues to exhibit autofocus issues, do not hesitate to contact Sony’s customer support for expert assistance. They can provide personalized support and ensure your camera is set up correctly for seamless operation.

When dealing with camera issues, it is always beneficial to have the owner’s manual and lens manuals handy, especially if you need to refer to it frequently. Additionally, keeping your firmware and camera settings in order can prevent many common issues from arising in the first place.