DoF Mate Guides

Sharper shots, explained.

Field-tested guides to depth of field, hyperfocal distance, focus pulling and the optics behind every frame.

DoF Mate showing a 0.57 metre depth of field with near and far limits for a Sony FX3 and 50mm lens
Depth of fieldFundamentals

Depth of Field Explained: How to Calculate It (With Examples)

What depth of field is, the four things that control it, and how to get exact near, far and total DoF for any camera and lens — with worked examples on iPhone.
DoF Mate calculator showing a hyperfocal distance of 31.3 metres alongside near and far focus limits
HyperfocalLandscape

Hyperfocal Distance: The Complete Guide to Front-to-Back Sharpness

Hyperfocal distance is the focusing trick that keeps landscapes sharp from the foreground to infinity. Here is what it means, how to calculate it, and how to use it on location.
DoF Mate focus-pull chart plotting near limit, far limit and subject distance across a move
Focus pullingOn set

How to Pull Focus: A Focus Puller's Guide to Marks, Charts & LiDAR

Pulling focus is part math, part muscle memory. Learn how to set marks, read a focus-pull chart, measure distance fast, and hand clean numbers to your crew.