Everything you need to know about Depth of Field

Understanding Depth of Field

When it comes to the definition, an acceptable amount of in-focus area near what you are focusing on is called Depth of Field. The Depth of field depends on various factors including the aperture you choose, the lens you use, what camera you are shooting and even how near the subject is to your lens as well.

Moreover, the size of Aperture largely controls the outcome of a depth of field. The easiest way to control your depth of focus is to play around aperture (f-stop) of your lens as you set up your shot. The lower your f-number, the smaller your depth of field and on the other hand, the higher your f-number, the larger your depth of field.

Distance: When it comes to the distance, the closer your subject is, the shallower your DOF becomes. If you moving away from your subject it will deepen your DOF.

Point and shoot: With point and shoot camera, we can control the DOF, just by using various modes. For example, if you want to take pictures of people, you can select Portrait mode, which gives you a narrow depth of field, while for scenarios, you can choose Landscape mode that gives you a deeper depth of field.

When should you use it?

You can use it if you want to your subject stand out from its background. It can be used when it comes to portrait, wildlife and sports photography.

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Determining DOF

If you need help in a case out in the field, you can download depth of field charts for your camera and lenses on the Internet. Moreover, there are various apps available so that you can install on your smartphone itself of self-calculations.

Keep this in mind!

• To increase depth of field
• Narrow your aperture (high f-number)
• Away from the subject
• Shorten focal length
• To decrease depth of field
• Widen your aperture (low f-number)
• Near to the subject
• Lengthen your focal length