For the past two months, we have been using this DOF ( depth of field ) adapter for  our weddings as well as our corporate work. Although this weighs a ton, the images that it delivers is purely awesome.

Now, what does this device really do ?  And how does it make video emulate film ?


These adapters are called DOF ( depth of field ) adapters.  Simply put, DOF is  the distance in front of and beyond the subject that appears to be in focus.  Video usually has deep DOF. It's the technology that makes it look "video-ish."  Watch your favorite noontime show and you'll quickly notice that. Film on the other hand has shallow DOF. The reason for this is that films are viewed on  huge screens and thus, the filmmaker has the power to control the direction to which he wants the audience to look. Usually, our eyes are drawn towards the focused objects.

This power to selectively focus on objects on the screen is the essence of visual storytelling. If the budget permits, then film is no object. But we mere mortals cannot afford a full 35mm film production. So this may be the closest we can emulate film.

So what does this DOF adapter do ?  First, it uses a 35mm film lens which projects an image on a ground glass inside the adapter. The video camera then focuses on that ground glass. The DOF is controlled by varying the opening of the 35mm lens.

In a way, this whole technology overrides all auto modes. So, it's manual focus and exposure all the way. For many, that's a turn off, but for the filmmaker who wants control over his equipment and creativity, this is God sent.

 

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