Focus point in group shot?

[AndreG]

I understand that the whole 'focal depth' thing is all very subjective, but looking at my chart thingy, it shows that about 1/3rd of the depth of field is in front of the focus point, and 2/3rds is behind it.

Does this mean that if I'm taking a photo with say 5 rows of people in it, I should focus somewhere between the 2nd and 3rd rows, rather than the front? Or is it best to get the front pin sharp as the most visible and not worry so much about the back row?

Thank you!

 

[hyeongsoong]

set the focus 1/3 way in and with F8 every one should be in focus.

 

[HoppyUK]

set the focus 1/3 way in and with F8 every one should be in focus.

Sounds about right. But the 33/66% split doesn't work for all distances. When you're very close, it's nearer 50/50 and for a distant landscape 1/99 or more.

 

[AndreG]

Thank you both!