SUMMARY
Hyperfocal distance is a technique that allows photographers to achieve front-to-back sharpness in landscape images by setting the focus point to the closest distance that keeps everything from half that distance to infinity acceptably sharp. This method is crucial for landscape photography, where sharp foregrounds, middle grounds, and distant backgrounds are often desired. While traditional rules exist, modern apps like PhotoPills can accurately calculate hyperfocal distance by inputting camera and lens settings. When estimating, it's advised to focus slightly beyond the calculated distance to prevent the horizon from becoming soft.
TAKEAWAYS
Hyperfocal distance maximizes depth of field for sharp foregrounds and backgrounds.
It's the closest focus distance that keeps everything to infinity acceptably sharp.
Apps like PhotoPills can calculate hyperfocal distance based on camera and lens settings.
When estimating, focus slightly farther into the scene to ensure distant elements remain sharp.