Using Manual Focus 

Take time to check that what you see is in focus. When taking portraits always focus on the eyes. With autofocus cameras there is sometimes a Focus Lock Button that holds the focus on the centre subject and allows the photographer to reposition the subject away from the centre without the camera refocusing.

On most occasions an out-of-focus photograph is a careless error. Try to focus on a sharp edge. However, some out-of-focus images can create a dreamy or surreal effect.

Click to see some examples