Cinematography13 min read
Deep Focus vs. Shallow Focus: A Cinematographer's Decision Framework
Most writing on deep versus shallow focus treats it as an aesthetic preference. It is not -- it is a technical and narrative decision with specific trade-offs. This post covers the conditions under which each approach serves the story, the practical constraints that govern the choice, and how to calculate whether the intended look is achievable with your equipment.
Deep FocusShallow FocusDepth of Field