Number of pixel

[GATTACA]

Hi Adam,
I was wondering if it could be useful to add the number of pixel of digital cameras in profile equipement. As I (finally) noticed that according to the number of pixel of digital camera, you can choose or not the DOF. And so with a low number of pixel you can't choose the DOF.
I think that showing that element in the profile of equipement could reveal if the lack of DOF is because of the equipement or the photographer.

[BobTrips]

The number of pixels has no effect on DOF (depth of field).

That said, many/most consumer digitals have quite small sensors. Much smaller than the size of a frame of 35 mm film. The lack of DOF comes from the sensor size and its relationship to the lens.

It's a blessing and a curse. Someone recently pointed out that small sensor digitals will probably be better for the P&S crowd. Focusing will be much easier. Lack of shallow DOF is a curse for someone who likes to use this feature to isolate a subject from a distracting background.


BTW, I've started using the 'Film' field to indicate number of pixels and ISO setting. E.g., "2 megs, ISO 100".