working distance

Definition: Gap or distance between the object being viewed and the part of the optical system nearest the object. * Use of lenshood or other accessories will reduce the working distance in close-up photography. Too close for comfort Working distance is generally applied to close-up photography, but also very relevant when working in smaller studios. For some portraiture, you may not want to be breathing down the forehead of your subject, but put some formal distance between lens and their noses. And don't forget you can't get a full-length shot without a bit room behind you, so working distance may apply backwards as well as front-endedly.

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