In the example above, the focus point is simply set to infinity - the photographer gives away extra Depth Of Field, since the DOF goes way past infinity at f16 with these settings. With the hyperfocal distance setting, the photographer gets the greatest depth of field out of the lens...
Here the photographer uses the hyperfocal distance to get the most possible DOF in his shot: the focus is set in a way, that the distance scale lines up at infinity and f16. Note, how the DOF increases by almost 100% to the left with this setting.
related: zone focusing
Comments (3)
Beware! Hyperfocal distance is usually NOT what you want for best sharpness "everywhere". Check out what Merklinger has to say http://www.trenholm.org/hmmerk/DOFR.html
Posted by Hans der Hase | August 11, 2006 8:30 AM
Posted on August 11, 2006 08:30
You have inspired an epiphany! A few simple pics and it all makes so much sense. Thanks
Posted by Elliot | May 13, 2008 5:42 PM
Posted on May 13, 2008 17:42
Wow, thanks a million for this information. I had read about hyperfocal distance a thousand times, but it was never quite clear to me. With your explanation, things are 100% clear to me.
Again, thanks a lot.
Posted by Rodrigo Neves | June 7, 2009 9:26 AM
Posted on June 7, 2009 09:26