So far have used auto focus exclusively. Manual focus seems difficult on this camera when underwater, especially when drifting along in currents. This was a night shot, actually. A number of shots didn't focus right. Used a torch strapped to the side of my strobe to illuminate subject. That seems critical for the Oly 7070 - the subject needs decent light and contrast to make the auto focus system work accurately. I'm still learning - any tips, please add them here.