30+ Examples of Depth of Field Photography (+ Free Photos)

Depth of field is one of the most popular techniques used in photography to create mesmerizing effects, especially in portrait photography.

This effect is created by blurring the distance between the closest and the farthest objects in a scene. It’s done by adjusting the focus of the camera using the aperture settings, usually available in DSLRs. Nowadays, even smartphones support features for capturing photos with depth of field effects.

There are multiple styles of depth of field techniques used in photography. We’ll explain them with a few examples.

Shallow depth of field, also known as short depth of field, is the technique used to bring the object in photos into focus while blurring the rest of the scene in the frame. These short depth of field photos are easily recognizable as they feature a single object in focus while the other part of the photo seems out of focus.

Japanese Stone Statues

Two Friends in Tokyo

Field of Tulips Through Crystal Ball

People Waiting by the Road

Close-up of Retro Lens

Deep depth of field, also known as long depth of field, photos try to bring both the foreground and the background into focus by increasing sharpness. When both your main object and the background are important for creating context or telling a story, deep depth of field is the go-to technique for creating sharp photography.

Camera in a Field of Flowers

Metro Station Hallway

Rush Hour in London

The wide depth of field effect is similar to the deep depth of field effect. This effect also creates a sharp look for photos by bringing both the foreground and background into focus. It’s a popular technique used in landscape and cityscape photography.

Landscape with Marsh Overgrown Sedge

Long Exposure Sunset Over River Landscape

Peaceful Spring Wide Panorama

Mountain View in Umbria, Italy

This is the effect commonly used in close-up abstract photography. The abstract depth of field effect involves blurring out most of the scenery in the frame while keeping the focus on just a tiny portion of the objects in front.

Abstract Nature

Tulip Bud Close-up

Snail Sitting in Green Grass

Small Flower and Bokeh