Near Limit:
Far Limit:
The Depth of Field (DOF) Calculator helps photographers determine the range of acceptable sharpness in an image based on camera settings such as focal length, aperture, subject distance, and sensor size. This tool is essential for both professional and amateur photographers, enabling them to control focus creatively and achieve the desired sharpness in their images. Whether for portrait photography, landscape shots, or macro photography, the DOF calculator allows users to fine-tune their camera settings for the best results.
Formula
The depth of field is calculated using the following formulas:
Near DOF Limit:
Near Distance = (Hyperfocal Distance × Subject Distance) / (Hyperfocal Distance + (Subject Distance - Focal Length))
Far DOF Limit:
Far Distance = (Hyperfocal Distance × Subject Distance) / (Hyperfocal Distance - (Subject Distance - Focal Length))
where:
- Focal Length is the lens focal length in millimeters (mm).
- Aperture (f-number) controls how much light enters the camera (e.g., f/2.8, f/5.6).
- Circle of Confusion (CoC) is the limit of acceptable sharpness, typically in micrometers.
- Subject Distance is the distance from the camera to the subject in meters or feet.
- Hyperfocal Distance is the closest focus distance at which objects at infinity appear acceptably sharp.
These formulas help photographers understand the near and far limits of depth of field and adjust their settings accordingly.
Depth of Field Reference Table
This table provides estimated depth of field values for common camera settings to help photographers make quick adjustments without calculations.
| Focal Length (mm) | Aperture (f-number) | Subject Distance (m) | Depth of Field (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | f/8 | 2 | 1.74 - 2.33 |
| 50 | f/5.6 | 3 | 2.85 - 3.20 |
| 85 | f/2.8 | 5 | 4.85 - 5.15 |
| 100 | f/4 | 10 | 9.70 - 10.30 |
| 200 | f/8 | 20 | 19.55 - 20.45 |
These values provide a general guide for photographers when selecting lens and aperture settings.
Example of Depth of Field Calculator
A photographer using a 50mm lens at f/5.6 with a subject distance of 3 meters wants to calculate the near and far DOF limits.
Using the formula:
Near Distance = (Hyperfocal Distance × Subject Distance) / (Hyperfocal Distance + (Subject Distance - Focal Length))
Far Distance = (Hyperfocal Distance × Subject Distance) / (Hyperfocal Distance - (Subject Distance - Focal Length))
By applying these values, the near DOF is approximately 2.85m, and the far DOF is 3.20m, meaning the subject and a small area in front and behind will be in focus.
Most Common FAQs
Depth of Field controls how much of an image appears sharp. A shallow DOF is ideal for portraits, while a deep DOF is preferred for landscapes.
A larger aperture (smaller f-number) results in a shallower DOF, while a smaller aperture (larger f-number) increases the DOF, making more of the scene in focus.
Hyperfocal Distance is the closest distance where objects at infinity remain acceptably sharp. It is useful in landscape photography to maximize sharpness throughout the image.