DOF PREVIEW METHOD

While the hyperfocal distance method may not be the ultimate solution in the modern age of high-resolution cameras, it still offers a rapid and uncomplicated approach. it is possible to quicken the process even further by excluding the need for referencing numerical values in a physical document or using an app. Make use of the DOF preview button to instantly find the hyperfocal distance.

1

ENTER EXPOSURE SETTINGS Set your aperture to a minimum of f11, to ensure enough depth of field to cover your scene. Next manually calculate the appropriate shutter speed or use Aperture Priority mode to correctly expose the image, with the desired f-stop fixed.

2

USE LIVE VIEW Switch to Live View mode and zoom in to a distant area of the scene, approximately at the horizon line. Next set the lens at the minimum focusing distance – this will ensure we accurately judge the hyperfocal distance in the following step.

3

PRESS DOF PREVIEW Hit the depth-of-field preview button to stop down the aperture to the specified f-stop. If your camera does not feature a DOF preview button, it is possible that DOF is automatically shown in the Live View image. This is the case on many CSCs and some DSLRs.

4

FOCUS MANUALLY While holding down the DOF preview, rotate the focus ring until the magnified area is sharp. This will be the hyperfocal distance – the closest focusing point at which the background is rendered infocus. Be sure to check the foreground and stop down the aperture further should more DOF be required.