How to Use Depth of Field in Photography

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Know the best time to use this method.

   This will cause the viewer to focus on the particular objects that the photographer wants them to focus on.
   
   Alternatively, the photographer may want to intentionally obscure some of the objects in a photograph by rendering them out of focus to increase mystery, tension, or some other feeling.
2. 2

   Step 2: Place “Subject A” 8-10 feet in front of the background.

   ,,,, This creates a “busy” picture with many clear points of interest. ,,, This causes the viewers’ attention to be attracted to the subject in the photograph.
3. 3

   Step 3: Set the camera in aperture priority mode.

4. 4

   Step 4: Select a high F-stop value (F11-F22).

5. 5

   Step 5: Position the camera 1-2 feet away from the subject with the background another 8-10 feet beyond the subject.

6. 6

   Step 6: Take the picture and note that the subject and the background are all in focus.

7. 7

   Step 7: Set the F-stop to a low value (F1.8-F4).

8. 8

   Step 8: Position the camera so that the subject is in focus and re-take the picture.

9. 9

   Step 9: Notice how the background items are now softly out of focus.

Detailed Guide

About the Author