DOF and f-stop

Hi!

Forgive the seriously newbee question, but is there a simple, quick and dirty method for determining DOF from f-stop in the field? I am growing tired of bracketing my DOF for particular compositions that I have in mind, and would like to process fewer photos. I use the preview button on my camera for almost every shot, especially when I set them up, but these can be difficult to see.

Thanks guys!

Older lenses used to have DOF scales. Unfortunately very few modern ones do, though you may be fortunate to own one. That might be your easiest answer. It's worth remembering though that these scales were created with a certain size print in mind so if you plan to print larger than say 8x10, a good rule of thumb is to use the scale for one stop larger than the one you use (e.g. use the scales for f/11 and use f/16).

If your lens does not have these scales you can use one of many online calculators (do a Google search for "DOF calculator") and print a small laminated card with hyperfocal distances for all your favorite focal lengths.

Finally, some modern cameras have a DOF calculator built in that allows you to focus on the near element, then the far element, and they will calculate the proper focus distance and aperture for you.

Hopefully one of these method will help.

Guy

Cup your hand around the viewfinder to shut out the sunlight better (naturally I assume you are using a tripod.) It takes about 20 seconds for your eye to adjust to the dim light, so give it time.


Kent in SD

Gosh Brian, I think so much depends on what you are shooting it's hard to provide a specific answer for you. Guy's suggestion of the DOF table takes care of most everything short of a lot of practice. Or tell us more about what you like to shoot or specific situations where you wished you had gotten a different result. Better yet, post some photos with a question referencing DOF, and then responders can address that issue specifically.

You may wish to download 'dofmaster' and give it a go... pretty nice. You'll need to consider the crop factor of your sensor though, along with the resultuing magification.

nevilleb

I would also read the current NPN article on hyperfocal distance focussing. It won't answer all of your questions, but it does contain some very good information. The really quick summary is how to get everything from x feet in front of you to infinity sharp.