Avoiding the Dreaded "Circle of Confusion"
Monday, May 5, 2008 @ 07:03
Circle of confusion is simply the effect created when non-converging, unfocused light rays have entered into a lens. When the light does not converge after passing through the lens, they create a larger optical spot than normal instead of just coming together at a single point. What this means quite simply is less than perfect photos, something no good photographer, amateur or professional, would accept.
In simple terms, the circle of confusion is an estimated calculation of the depth of field which will be necessary to get a sharp, clean image out of your photograph.
To resolve these problems requires that the photographer be able to calculate the circle of confusion in order to interpret the depth of field that will be necessary to get a focused image in the photograph.
Some photographers have become adept at using a specific mathematical equation to calculate circles and then the appropriate depth of field that needs to be employed in order to resolve the problem. Others prefer to just experiment with distances and then approximate the depth of field. This involves setting up the photograph at a variety of shooting distances and seeing which work best.
Whichever method you choose to employ in your work, just be aware that the amount of light entering the lens can be manipulated, as well as the distance you choose to place between yourself and your subject. It is only by manipulating these variables that you will improve your picture-taking ability and master the techniques necessary to make the dreaded "circle of confusion" into something that can actually enhance your future photographs.
