Hyperfocal Distance
Calculate hyperfocal distance for maximum depth of field
How to use Hyperfocal Distance
- 1Enter the focal length and aperture you plan to shoot with.
- 2Enter the circle of confusion for your camera sensor.
- 3Read the hyperfocal distance and set focus there for maximum depth of field.
What Is the Hyperfocal Distance?
H = f² / (N · c) + fThe hyperfocal distance is the focus distance that keeps everything from half that distance to infinity acceptably sharp. It is the secret to maximally deep landscape focus.
When you focus at the hyperfocal point, the far limit extends to infinity and the near limit is as close as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Why focus at the hyperfocal distance?
It maximizes depth of field: the background reaches infinity and the foreground stays sharp, ideal for landscapes.
Does a wider aperture change it a lot?
Yes. A wider aperture (smaller f-number) pushes the hyperfocal distance farther away, shrinking the near sharp limit.
Do I need a tripod?
For deep landscape focus you usually stop down to small apertures, which needs slower shutter speeds, so a tripod helps.