Hyperfocal Distance Calculator

About this calculator

The hyperfocal distance is the closest focus point that keeps everything from half that distance to infinity acceptably sharp. It's calculated as H = f²/(N·c) + f, where f is focal length, N is the aperture (f-number), and c is the circle of confusion — the largest blur spot the human eye perceives as a sharp point, which depends on sensor size (typically around 0.03mm for full-frame).

Landscape and architectural photographers use hyperfocal distance to maximize depth of field in a single shot: focusing at the hyperfocal distance instead of at infinity gets both close foreground elements and distant scenery in acceptable focus, a technique especially important with wide-angle lenses at moderate apertures.

Landscape photographers planning a shot's focus point, cinematographers setting pull-focus marks, and photography students learning depth-of-field theory all use this calculator, entering focal length, aperture, and circle of confusion (often preset by camera/sensor type).