I dont' think you'll have any problems taking photos in the daytime outside. Like I said, it's in really low light situations that the camera just doesn't find anything to focus on. Mine does that. It'll focus in and out a few times looking for something to focus on and eventually stop on something which may or may not be what I want. Using the half pressed shutter only makes it hold the current focus so you can move the camera and still keep it focused at the depth you want. Anyway, best bet would be to used manual focus or more light.