Understanding depth of field: try it yourself

1. Three-Object Row

Place 3 toys in a line; focus on middle one at f/3.5 vs. f/11.

2. Foreground Blur

Hold a leaf or lace in front of your lens; shoot a subject behind it.

3. Distance Test

Focus on a book 1ft away, then 5ft away; same aperture; note DoF change.

4. Portrait DoF

Shoot face at f/2.8 (blurry background) vs. f/8 (sharper background).

5. Smartphone Sim

Use portrait mode, then turn it off; compare background blur.