Learning to Photograph - Volume 2

07

Sharpness and Blur

When it comes to sharpness, everyone thinks of focusing, and slightly more experienced photographers also think of aperture. However, many other factors influence what appears sharp and what appears blurry. The subject of movement is not regularly addressed in this category of photographic design, yet sharpness and movement are two aspects of the same design method that have a tremendous variety of effects.

Focusing is usually and logically combined with the concept of depth of field because both primarily relate to unmoving subjects. With these particular design elements, photographers can emphasize specific subjects and areas with crystal-sharp clarity, guide the viewer’s gaze to land on distinct objects or wander throughout ...