Photography journal

The TB Studios photography journal brings together project stories, field notes and the craft of commercial photography.

Photography Tutorials

Understanding Depth of Field — A Five-Part Series

By Tarek ElBaradie. Originally published on April 14, 2013, and presented here with the original words and diagrams.

Start with the introduction, then explore how camera distance, focal length and aperture shape depth of field. Read the series in order to see how each choice affects the photograph.

Begin with the depth of field introduction to establish the basic idea. Then work through the series one part at a time, keeping the diagrams alongside the explanation. Camera distance, focal length and aperture each affect the result, so it helps to consider one choice before moving to the next.

For example, compare how much of a subject appears sharp with what happens in the background. Also look at the relationship between the subject and the camera. The aim is to connect a setting with its visible effect, rather than simply memorise a number.

Choose a simple subject and make a small set of comparison photographs. First, keep the scene consistent. Then change one setting at a time and review the results together. Note what you changed so you can relate each photograph to the choice that produced it.

Next, browse the commercial photography portfolio with attention to focus, composition and the details within each frame. You can also explore travel photography for another perspective on light and observation. Return to the photography journal when you want to revisit the explanations and compare them with your own results. For an additional reference, Nikon’s guide to aperture explains the relationship between the lens opening, exposure and depth of field.