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Optics
Optics

Depth of Field

DOF≈2Ncs2f2DOF \approx \frac{2Nc s^2}{f^2}

Approximate depth of field for distant subjects. DOF increases with higher f-number (smaller aperture) and increases with the square of subject distance.

Variables

DOF
Depth of field
m
N
F-number
unitless
c
Circle of confusion diameter
m
s
Subject distance
m
f
Focal length
m

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Common questions

What is the Depth of Field formula?

Depth of Field is written DOF ≈2Nc s²/f². Approximate depth of field for distant subjects. DOF increases with higher f-number (smaller aperture) and increases with the square of subject distance. It belongs to Optics, under Optical Instruments.

What are the units in DOF ≈2Nc s²/f²?

In SI units, DOF is depth of field, measured in m; N is f-number (dimensionless); c is circle of confusion diameter, measured in m; s is subject distance, measured in m; f is focal length, measured in m.