Autofocus
The large sensor and wide-aperture lenses allow shallow depth of field in the shots
The single-point AF selection provides a choice of four AF point sizes and a potential 165 positions across the frame for accurate positioning. It is a shame this doesn’t extend right to the edges of the frame, but this will not be an issue for most users. The multipoint modes are limited to within a central area with either 15 or 35 points, but are ideal for larger subjects in the frame. Contrast-detect AF systems are no longer the painfully slow experience they once were on the first DSLR live view systems.
The NX200’s advanced AF certainly sees another step forward, but despite its potential 100ms focus speed I found it required a high-contrast edge to find focus. Also, at times it showed a green AF point to confirm focus before it was ready to shoot, causing a perceived shutter lag. In terms of speed, it compares well even against rapid Olympus E-P3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 models, but suffers equally in lower contrast scenes. Continuous focus mode isn’t particularly fast to react, so is more suited to video use than fast-moving subjects, and there is no AF tracking mode.
Using the camera in manual-focus mode is a surprisingly pleasant experience, thanks to the magnification of the image on the rear screen. However, the magnifier only works on the central area and cannot be moved around the frame (except with the manual override of the 60mm macro), making off-centre focusing on a tripod a little tricky without adjusting the composition. Most of the lenses use an electronic connection between the focus adjustment on the lens and the barrel, but the movement is still very smooth allowing for precise correction.
