Setting the Focus:
In order to set the focus on a studio camera zoom in all the way on your subject. Make sure that you are zoomed in as far as the camera will let you and slowly begin to roll the focus control until your subject becomes clear, now you are in focus.
When setting the focus on a person, it is recommended to use their eyes as a target.
Once you have set the focus you should not have to reset the focus unless the subject moves closer to or further away from the camera. If the distance does change during the production be sure to reset the focus when the director is on another camera.
Setting the focus during sporting events:
Unlike most interview situations sporting events is never a one and done, you will constantly be readjusting or rolling your focus to achieve the sharpest image. A good rule of thumb is to focus on an object which is farthest away from the camera. For example, during a basketball game, zoom into the hoop which is the farthest away, focus, zoom out. All objects in the foreground should now also be in focus.
Rolling your focus:
You may have to readjust, or roll, your focus at different times when you are shooting. For example: during a volleyball game, the director may ask you to zoom in on the coach, you may need to roll your focus, then the director may ask you to zoom in on the server, sometimes just that the difference between across the court for the coach and then the server affects your focus.
“Soft” this term refers to the state of focus. If the director tells you that you are soft that is in reference to being out of focus – ie: not sharp. Keep a close eye on your focus, don’t get caught going live when your are “soft”