| Depth of field (DOF) in photography is the portion of | | | | camera is to the subject, the shallower the DOF. |
| depth of an image or view that is in focus and sharp. | | | | Conversely, the further the camera is from the subject |
| You've probably seen a photo at one time or another | | | | the deeper the field. In wildlife photography, this will likely |
| that had a subject in focus and either the foreground | | | | be the least practical way to affect your DOF, as |
| or background appeared blurry and out of focus. The | | | | shots are often opportune and time isn't afforded to |
| portion of the photo that was in focus from | | | | adjust distance from the subject. |
| foreground to background refers to DOF. | | | | Using a zoom lens and shooting in aperture mode are |
| When deliberately considered in composition decisions, | | | | the most effective means of controlling your DOF in |
| DOF can produce dramatic effects. It lends itself to | | | | wildlife photography. Many wildlife photographers will |
| helping draw an observer to the desired subject and | | | | have a zoom lens mounted for bringing subjects |
| sparks an artistic effect that enhances imagination. | | | | closer. By consciously shortening the focal length prior |
| There are three fundamental concepts to consider: | | | | to shutter release, DOF can be increased. Additionally, |
| aperture, focal length and focus distance. | | | | by being ready to quickly adjust aperture just prior to |
| Aperture, measured in f-stops, can decrease a DOF | | | | shutter release, the field can also be affected. |
| by widening (smaller f-stop number) or increase it by | | | | These concepts are worthy of practice prior to hitting |
| narrowing (higher f-stop number). If you adjust your | | | | the field in search of wild subjects. Try the different |
| aperture to enhance your DOF consideration, you'll | | | | strategies around the house. Eventually, you'll build |
| likely have to make a corresponding adjustment to | | | | instinctive responses that will let you affect DOF with |
| your shutter speed. If you choose to use aperture, | | | | very little thought - you'll simply respond. Until you've |
| you'll be better served to be shooting in aperture | | | | established this instinct, consider a note card fastened |
| priority mode so your adjustments to the f-stop are | | | | to your camera strap. Try using a small plastic sleeve, |
| more readily available and results realized. | | | | like you'd see holding a suitcase owner tag, and slip a |
| The second way to affect DOF is with focal length; | | | | business card in it with short notes to keep you |
| the longer the focal length of the lens (measured in | | | | straight. I use this for any concept I'm trying to master, |
| millimeters), the shallower the field. Shorter lenses | | | | especially when I alter my field work flow, or a |
| produce deeper sharpness through the depth of the | | | | checklist of things critical to a particular shoot. |
| photo. So lens selection should be a consideration if | | | | Finally, challenge yourself to go out and shoot the |
| DOF is deliberate during composition strategy. If your | | | | same scene or subject and vary the DOF with the |
| lens is selected for other considerations, use aperture | | | | three methods discussed here. You'll quickly realize the |
| or focus distance to create your desired result. | | | | dramatic effect DOF can have on an image and you'll |
| Finally, focus distance can be used. The closer the | | | | develop instinct to make rapid DOF decisions. |