Concepts in Photography

Depth of field

Portraits or still-life photos mostly acclaimed by people are the ones on which the background is out of focus so the subject looks pronounced. Depending on the focused areas, a photo can be blurred or sharpened. This is called ‘a low DOF’ or ‘a high DOF’.

The depth of field is the focused area around the subject. Therefore, a small DOF signifies that the focused area is narrow and a large DOF means the focused area is wide.

A photo with a small DOF, which stresses the subject and makes the rest of it blurred, can be obtained by using a telescope lens or selecting a low aperture value. Conversely, a photo with a large DOF which shows all the elements on the photo sharply focused can be achieved by using a wide angle lens or selecting a high aperture value.

What controls out-of-focus effects?

DOF depends on aperture value

The wider the aperture is (namely the lower the aperture value), the lower the DOF becomes. Under the condition where the other values including shutter speed and ISO sensitivity are equal, a low aperture value leads to a photo with a low DOF.

50 mm F5.7

50 mm F22

Small Depth of Field

Large Depth of Field

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Samsung NX100 user manual Depth of field, What controls out-of-focus effects?

NX100 specifications

The Samsung NX100, launched in 2010, marked a significant entry into the mirrorless camera market, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and style in photography. This compact system camera combined versatility with advanced technology, appealing to both amateur and professional photographers alike.

One of the main features of the NX100 is its 14.6-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality and excellent low-light performance. This sensor size is comparable to that found in many DSLRs, allowing for greater depth of field and better control over exposure. The impressive image resolution enables photographers to capture intricate details without sacrificing clarity, making it ideal for large prints.

In terms of design, the NX100 boasts a sleek and stylish body that is both lightweight and compact, making it easily portable for photography on the go. The camera features a detachable lens system, compatible with Samsung's NX mount lenses, allowing users to tailor their equipment to the specific needs of their shoots. The standard 20-50mm lens provides great versatility for everyday photography.

The NX100 incorporates a Hybrid AF system, combining contrast detection and phase detection to achieve fast and accurate focus, an essential feature for capturing moving subjects. Furthermore, the camera supports continuous shooting at 3 frames per second, enabling users to capture action sequences with ease.

Another notable characteristic of the NX100 is its 3-inch AMOLED display, which offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. This display is crucial for composing shots and reviewing images in varying lighting conditions. Additionally, the camera includes manual control options, giving experienced photographers the flexibility to adjust settings such as shutter speed and aperture, while also providing automatic modes for those looking for ease of use.

The camera's integrated Smart Filter effects allow for creative expression directly in-camera, offering options like Soft Focus, Vignette, and Miniature effects. These filters enhance the creative potential and make experimentation more accessible for users.

Enhanced connectivity is also a key feature, as the NX100 includes Samsung's i-Function technology, allowing users to adjust settings directly from the lens using designated buttons for a seamless shooting experience. The ability to connect via USB and HDMI provides additional convenience for sharing images and videos directly to external devices.

In summary, the Samsung NX100 reflects a blend of sophisticated imaging technology and user-friendly design. Its APS-C sensor, compact build, and innovative features create an appealing option for anyone looking to dive into the world of photography or expand their creative toolkit.