First DoF Photograph Adventures
I am trying to be systematic as I work with my camera and share my learning journey and DoF or depth of field is next on my beginner’s list to learn something about.
I took the chance to photograph Phoebe and realised that I should introduce you to my Canon camera because you haven’t seen it yet. Another post I will enjoy writing. Phoebe was my model for the selfies on Sunday and some of the pictures I took are ones I can share.
These samples give an idea of what depth of field with a camera can look like. Sometimes that soft focus background really looks nice, especially for a nice cat picture, or when you want the background at home, which might be untidy, to disappear.
Depth of Field determines the closest and farthest objects in an image, both of which are in focus. The entire image between these objects also maintains sharp focus.
Dave Morrow
I wanted to find a clear definition of depth of field and most photography sites use the same general description. Dave Morrow’s definition is backed up by an impressive if slightly technical post via his link. NOTE: There is a pop-up on his site but, for once, it is worth dismissing it to read the post in full.
First let me show you my focus and depth of field fail.
For me as a cat lover DoF means a lovely close up in pin sharp focus and an impressive soft focused area behind it so my cats look awesome. This picture of Phoebe is not my best.
Is Av mode a good place to start?
Although I will be using different DSLR camera settings for different situations I believe Av mode is a good standby to start from especially if I am taking a picture of a ‘something, not a landscape shot. I still make use of the Canon camera pre-sets like sports mode or portrait mode.
AV mode lets you use the DoF to create lovely portraits.
I will report more of depth of field with my Canon camera after I have done some more reading. Manual mode will be mine, and yours one day but I am having so much fun exploring, and lots of post ideas.
This photograph worked best.
I have Phoebe and her fine whiskers in focus and the viewer’s eye travels down her dark-haired body to the fluffy tail after admiring her splendid whiskers. I’m not clever, I think it was a lucky shot, but one I am happy with.
What are you pleased to share this week? What post or tweet are you ready to shout about?
More DSLR and Smartphone posts:
