Crystal Clear – doesn’t need apply to everything in your photo
One of the most convenient features of today’s digital cameras is their ability to automatically focus on your subject. The result is that we have fewer out of focus pictures. In fact, sometimes we end of with picture that have too much in focus.
Except for the least expensive models, most digital cameras have the one or more “selective” focusing options.
For example, when shooting portraits, one technique that’s often used is to focus carefully on the face while at the same time throwing the background out of focus. This technique allows the photographer to “zero in” on the main subject. The key to “defocusing” the background is to set the lens to use a large aperture (smaller f/stop number).
 In this photo I’ve focused carefully on the young girl’s face. In automatic mode, the camera set the lens for a relatively small (f/11 aperture) keeping much of the background in focus and a bit distracting. |
 For this shot, I also focused on her face. However, by setting the lens to a larger aperture (f/3.5), the background appears largely out of focus. The face becomes the center of attention. |
|
|
|
 Of course this technique is not limited to portraits or faces. Notice the house in the background in this snapshot. |
 In this snapshot using a large aperture, the house is barely distinguishable making the lily more prominent. |
Quick tip for selective focus:
- Set your mode dial to “A” -(aperture preferred automatic exposure)
- Rotate the control dial until the smallest f/stop (largest aperture)
- Focus on your main subject
- Shoot
Written by Arnie Lee
