Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) Practice Exam

Which type of photography would benefit most from a shallow depth of field?

1. Landscape photography

2. Portrait photography

3. Architecture photography

4. Documentary photography

The correct answer is: Portrait photography

Portrait photography would benefit most from a shallow depth of field because this technique helps to isolate the subject from the background. In portraiture, the main goal is often to highlight the individual being photographed, and a shallow depth of field creates a pleasing blur (bokeh) in the background. This not only reduces distractions but also draws the viewer’s attention directly to the face or features of the subject. When a photographer uses a shallow depth of field, especially with a wide aperture, the area in focus is limited, allowing for selective focus on the subject's eyes or face. This leads to a more intimate and engaging image, which is particularly important in portraits where emotional connection is key. In contrast, landscape photography typically requires a deeper depth of field to keep both the foreground and background sharply in focus, while architecture photography often aims to capture the structure in its entirety, necessitating a greater depth of field as well. Documentary photography usually focuses on storytelling and capturing moments without the need for subject isolation, making a shallow depth of field less critical in that context.