Depth of field and focus Depth of field and focus play pivotal roles in delineating a visual hierarchy among compositional elements by calling attention to the sharpest parts of a scene. In addition to the integral parts of composition we've already examined--lens, viewpoint, and perspective--depth-of-field tech- niques provide another means to enhance the perception of depth and bring emphasis to your sub- jects. Your selection of lens settings for aperture and focus point puts you in direct charge over depth of field in your photographs. The term "depth of field" defines "Focus point" is the precise spot in the scene that is selectively chosen to be in sharpest focus, usually your main subject. The subject and anything else at that same distance from the camera will be razor sharp. Be critical with your focus point to make sure the most important elements are in sharpest focus. Generally, the zone of focus includes an amount of space where objects are only acceptably sharp in front of and behind the focus point. This apparent sharp- ness is the determining factor in establishing the limits of depth of field. The transition from razor sharp to acceptably sharp is grad- ual, and the boundaries of the depth of field are not well defined. Objects gradually become more unfocused and blurry the farther they are from the focus point.