Calculate hyperfocal distance

Estimate hyperfocal distance and near/far sharp limits from lens, aperture, and sensor format.

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ToolHyperfocal Distance Calculator
Input
Output
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Preview

How it works

Hyperfocal distance uses H = f²/(N·c) + f, with focal length f, f-number N, and sensor circle of confusion c. Near and far limits follow from H and focus distance.

  • Circle of confusion comes from stored sensor diagonal ÷ 1,442.
  • Acceptable sharpness depends on output viewing conditions.

Worked example

24mm at f/8 for landscapes
Full frame sensor, focused at the hyperfocal distance
Input
											Focal length mm: 24
Aperture: 8
Output
												Hyperfocal distance m: 2.42
Near limit at hyperfocal m: 1.22
Circle of confusion mm: 0.03
Crop factor: 1

When to use this

Landscape photographers set focus, street photographers estimate zone focus, and lens lessons compare sensor formats.

Edge cases

  • Focusing at H sends the model’s far limit to infinity.
  • A focus distance below focal length is invalid for the thin-lens model.
  • Circle of confusion changes with print size, viewing distance, and crop.