shallow-vs-deep-depth-of-field

name	shallow-vs-deep-depth-of-field
description	Use when controlling depth of field for storytelling. Shallow DoF = subject isolation; deep DoF = environment context.

Shallow vs Deep Depth of Field

Depth of field (DoF) = how much is in focus. Aperture, focal length, and subject distance control DoF.

DoF controls

1. Aperture: wider (f/1.4) = shallower DoF
2. Focal length: longer (85mm) = shallower DoF
3. Subject distance: closer subject = shallower DoF
4. Sensor size: larger sensor (full-frame) = shallower DoF

Combine for extreme shallow: 85mm + f/1.4 + close subject = bokeh-rich portrait

When to use shallow DoF

1. Subject isolation (interview, product hero)
2. Aesthetic preference (cinematic look)
3. Hide messy background
4. Force viewer's eye to subject

Downside: focus is critical (slight movement = out of focus)

When to use deep DoF

1. Documentary (capture environment)
2. Product shot showing context
3. Tutorial (multiple objects in focus)
4. Wide group shots

f/8-f/16 in good light maintains deep DoF.

Where this fits in the X3 empire

DoF strategy for CardPrepAI tutorial + product videos.