Hyperfocal Distance Calculator
Find the optimal focus distance for maximum depth of field. Focus at the hyperfocal distance to get everything sharp from half that distance to infinity.
Calculate hyperfocal distance
Enter your lens and aperture settings
mm
Hyperfocal distance
5.14 m
(16.9 ft)
Focus at 5.14 m to get:
Near sharp limit
2.57 m
(8.4 ft)
Far sharp limit
∞
(infinity)
Everything from 2.57 m to infinity will be acceptably sharp with a 35mm lens at f/8 on Full Frame (35mm).
Sharp zone when focused at hyperfocal
02.57 m (1/2 H)Focus at 5.14 m∞
Quick reference (Full Frame / 35mm)
Hyperfocal distances in meters for common focal lengths
| Focal Length | f/8 | f/11 | f/16 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24mm | 2.4m | 1.7m | 1.2m |
| 28mm | 3.3m | 2.4m | 1.6m |
| 35mm | 5.1m | 3.7m | 2.5m |
| 50mm | 10.4m | 7.6m | 5.2m |
| 85mm | 30.1m | 21.9m | 15.1m |
| 135mm | 75.9m | 55.2m | 38m |
The formula
H = (f² / (N × c)) + f
H = hyperfocal distance
f = focal length
N = f-number (aperture)
c = circle of confusion
Key properties
- • Near limit = H / 2
- • Far limit = infinity
- • Smaller aperture = closer hyperfocal
- • Shorter focal length = closer hyperfocal
Practical tips
Best for:
- Landscape photography (foreground to horizon)
- Street photography with zone focusing
- Pre-focusing when you can't focus in the moment
Tips:
- Mark your lens at common apertures
- Use f/11-f/16 for easier hyperfocal focusing
- Wider apertures = farther hyperfocal distance
Track your focus techniques with Silverlog
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