A Better Depth of Field Calculator

This depth of field table is based on the idea that in most cases it’s easier to estimate the size of the scene than its distance.
Sensor Size:

Lens Focal Length:

How to use this table

  1. Select a row based on the size of the composition scene along the long side of the frame. This is not the same as the subject distance, which is computed and shown in the second column.

  2. Read along the selected row until you get to an acceptable depth of field. Use aperture shown at the top of that column.

For example, if you are shooting a 4-foot round table with a 50mm lens and the scene leaves six inches of space on either side of the table, then choose the 5’ row. If you want everything on the table to be in focus (assuming that you’re shooting end-on) then choose an aperture of f/8 or smaller.