Tonight, get both friends in focus.

A birthday, two friends, one quick decision. Your first lesson is already under way.

In this well-lit scene, which aperture keeps both friends sharp?

Yes. A smaller opening, more in focus.f/11 keeps more depth sharp. It also needs more light or a slower shutter. Try f/2 to see the tradeoff.

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What changed?

Small opening.
Deeper focus.

The f-number describes the lens opening. A larger number means a smaller opening. More of the scene can look sharp, but less light gets in.

At a dim party, f/2 can be the right choice for one face. For a group at different distances, add light or bring everyone into the same plane.

This lesson assumes a camera with aperture control. A phone's portrait mode can simulate background blur.

Change the aperture f/11

Both friends in focus. More light needed.

Small enough for the moment

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