Sony NEX-6 review – Autofocus
Sony describes the NEX-6’s AF system as hybrid, which means it uses a combination of phase and contrast-detection AF. The 99-point phase-detection array is built onto the imaging sensor and can be constantly at work to keep subjects close to focus. A press of the shutter activates the 25-point contrast-detection AF to perform the final autofocus. All the AF points are grouped in the centre of the frame, and for quick focusing over a wide number of shooting situations it is best to keep the subject within the central 99-point array.
For tracking objects, the camera uses a fixed centre point. I found the AF to be snappy in good light, and although less responsive in poor light it is still respectable. Flexible spot AF covers a wider area of the frame, making it handy for off-centre subjects, with 187 areas individually selectable. The camera includes an AF illuminator, which helps no end in low-contrast light, but will obviously not work for distant subjects. Manual focus offers a very handy focus assist, which magnifies the display for clear viewing.
