DP Review says: Depth of field (DOF) is a term which refers to the areas of the photograph both in front and behind the main focus point which remain “sharp” (in focus).

Depth of field is affected by the aperture, subject distance, focal length, and film or sensor format. A larger aperture (smaller f-number, e.g. f/2) has a shallow depth of field. Anything behind or in front of the main focus point will appear blurred.

A smaller aperture (larger f-number, e.g. f/11) has a greater depth of field. Objects within a certain range behind or in front of the main focus point will also appear sharp. [Source: Digital Photography Review]

Depth too narrow

The problem with taking macro shots with point-and-shoot cameras is that the depth of field is often too narrow that only a very small portion of an image will appear sharp.

At times you’d get frustrated because of the lack of f values for you to manipulate.

Aperture-priority and manual setting 

So the next time you buy a point-and-shoot camera, make sure it has an aperture-priority setting or better still, a manual setting which will allow you some room to play with this thing called the depth of field.

If you already have a point-and-shoot camera with these features, be happy now that you can have some freedom to make a difference for each of your shots.

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