How to Achieve Shallow Depth of Field (DoF)

There are many ways and techniques to improveconveniently used nowadays.
and make your photographs more eye-catchingThere are 2 other contributing factors which
and attractive. One of the techniques commonlydetermine the DoF of the image, namely he focal
used by many is making use the Depth of Fieldlength as well as the distance between the lens
(DoF).and subject of interest.
You can make your photographs moreThe longer the focal length, the shallower DoF you
expressive if depth of field is wisely applied.are able to achieve. For example, with other
Viewers can also easily identify where thesettings and conditions remaining constant, a focal
emphasis in the photograph is. Not only that, thelength of 120mm is able to provide a shallower
blurred background/foreground could create someDoF as compared to a focal length of 50mm. Do
mystical effects too. This technique is oftentake note of camera shake when dealing with
welcomed in macro and portrait photography. Picklong focal length. A tripod will be necessary to
up any photography magazine and you will be ableavoid blurring.
to recognize this.Similarly, the shorter the distance between your
With correct camera setting, a shallow DoF willlens and main subject, the shallower DoF you
cause the subject in interest to be sharp whilewould be able to achieve. Thus, simply stand
throwing the foreground and background blur.closer to the subject of interest if you want to
There are many technical explanations out thereachieve a shallower DoF. But of course, do note
where you can read. For me, what is important isthat every lens will have a minimum focusing
the camera settings necessary to achieve anddistance in order to focus properly.
produce the results I longed for.Believe it is now obvious that the 3 main
So how to achieve shallow DoF and what are thecontributors to achieve shallow DoF will be
necessary camera settings? Basically, the majoraperture size, focal length and the distance
contributor of DoF is the Aperture of the lens.between your camera lens and subject of
The aperture is the "circular" opening inside theinterest.
camera lens which controls the amount of lightHopefully with above information, you will be able
hitting the sensor. Thus the wider the aperture,to achieve the DoF you desire for your
the shallower is the DoF. For example, you arephotographs. You can even practice at the
able to achieve a shallower DoF with an aperturecomfort of your home, like shooting your toys,
setting of f/1.8 as compared to f/9. Generally,coins, flowers, etc. So what are you waiting for?
prime lens are able to offer wider aperture asKeep practicing till the steps are like second
compared to zoom lens which are commonly andnature to you!