TGJ 3A/G - Photography - "Depth of Field"
So far, we've learned about several composition tools (lines, texture, rule of thirds)
that help your photographs have a more professional look. At the same time we've
learned that using composition effectively can, on a subtle level, communicate a
message to people who view it.
Another very common, but effective technique that photographers use in composition
is depth of field
. Essentially "depth of field" refers to zone of focus
that exists in a photograhp, or what "depth" of the photo is "sharp", i.e., in focus.
Narrow depth of field (f2)
Let's say you're shooting an apple on a table. You notice that a stapler one foot
in front of the apple and a box one foot behind it are out of focus. This would
be considered a narrow depth of field
(1-2 feet). To achieve a shallow depth of field, use a wide open aperture/f-stop
(f2-f4).
Now, what if you are shooting a group of trees that goes into the bush as far as you
can see (referred to as "infinity"), and you want to make sure that you get as many
of the trees in focus as possible? Such a situation is referred to as a wide depth of field
. To achieve a wide depth of field, use a narrow aperture/f-stop
(f16 - f22). Try it!
Wide depth of field (f22)
Why control depth of field?
-To highlight a particular image to viewers.
-To depict the depth of a landscape/series of objects.
-To make an artistic comment about a series of objects.
-To block out objects that may not be of interest to the viewer.
-Any other personal message that the photogrpaher wants to make.
ASSIGNMENT:
A) Produce six different images that use the "rule of thirds" principle, three with
a wide depth of field, and three with a narrow depth of field. By all means look
at image examples in magazines, teacher's work samples, etc. as reference. Print
them on
3 X 5 paper. present your work in a professional manner.
B) Write an analysis that includes (in complete sentences);
-a commentary on each individual image - how do you think depth of field influences
the way your viewer sees your work? When you composed your picture, were you
trying to say anything visually about the subject?
-Any processes or steps that were involved in producing your work that were different
from your previous assignments.
-Describe any other challenges you encountered.
-Has this been a good learning experience? Why or why not?