Macro DoF
Accurate depth of field for macro photography
How to use Macro DoF
- 1Enter the aperture (f-number) and the magnification ratio of your macro shot.
- 2Enter the circle of confusion for your sensor.
- 3Read the very shallow depth of field typical of close-up work.
Macro depth of field
DOF ≈ (2 · N · c · (m + 1)) / m²At macro magnifications, depth of field becomes extremely thin and depends strongly on magnification rather than focal length.
Because effective aperture grows to N × (m + 1), stopping down helps far less than you might expect; focus stacking is often the practical solution.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my macro shot always blurry?
The DoF can be a fraction of a millimeter; tiny focus errors dominate. Use focus stacking.
Does focal length matter in macro?
At a given magnification, focal length barely changes DoF; magnification is what matters.
How do I increase sharpness?
Stack several focused frames, use a stable rig, and light the subject well.