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Emphasis

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Depth of Field

  • Depth of field is the amount of a photograph that is in sharp focus.
  • A photo can have a “deep” depth of field or a “shallow” depth of field.
  • Deep: small aperture; high f-stop. (f-27 for example)
  • Shallow: large aperture; low f-stop. (f-2.8 for example).

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Shallow depth of field...

  • Used to place emphasis on the subject by creating a focal point.
  • Separates the subject from the background.
  • Achieved by using a large aperture (f-1.4-f-4) and by placing your subject far away from any objects behind them (or it) to create a “blurry” background.
  • Best achieved when you move in close to your subject. Placing your subject off-center (rule of thirds) creates a nice touch!

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Source

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Source

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Source

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Photo A

Photo B

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Discuss the following questions with your seat partner:

  1. What depth of field is apparent in “Photo A?” What about in “Photo B?”
  2. How were the different depths of field achieved?
  3. Make a prediction. What aperture (an actual number) do you think was used in “Photo A?” What about in “Photo B?”
  4. How was the photographer able to achieve the “blurry” background in “Photo A” (hint: think about the distance between the subject and the background).
  5. Why do photographers like to use “blurry” backgrounds in their photos? What is achieved?

Warm Up