Book about theory of cameras, lenses ... how they work?

[cyman1964uk]

Hi,

Can anyone recommend a good text on the theory of lenses/cameras - how they work, please?

Looking for a text that can explain the answers to these kinds of questions.

Why does using a wider aperture decrease the DOF.
What is the relationship between focal length and DOF?

I want to learn properly about these matters from a theoretical text if one should exist. I've seen a couple of threads on here suggesting that such rules be 'taken as read', but I would really like to know why things work the way they do.

Cheers,
Simon.

[Manfred M]

Hi,

Can anyone recommend a good text on the theory of lenses/cameras - how they work, please?

Looking for a text that can explain the answers to these kinds of questions.

Why does using a wider aperture decrease the DOF.
What is the relationship between focal length and DOF?

I want to learn properly about these matters from a theoretical text if one should exist. I've seen a couple of threads on here suggesting that such rules be 'taken as read', but I would really like to know why things work the way they do.

Cheers,
Simon.

Hi Simon - welcome to CiC. Some of the best information that you are looking for anywhere is found right on this site. Have a look at the tutorials as they should cover off your questions.

That is why I joined

[MilT0s]

Since you want more technical and scientific stuff than what is available in CiC I'd suggest you begin with this Stanford University lectures and particularly study the flash applets section.

[MilT0s]

Also this book is fun with nice illustrations. It is simple and not scientific.

There is another book in amazon titled Science for the Curious Photographer: An Introduction to the Science of Photography but I haven't read it. Reviewers say it is 'too technical'.

Usually with this kind of knowledge it is either too 'taken as read' or too scientific.

[cyman1964uk]

Thanks, guys, I will take a look at all your suggestions when I get home tonight.

I don't generally actually mind taking things as read, but if I have the luxury of finding out why, then I'd go for it . I just prefer to prove things for myself just once and then I can feel happier about them.

Thank you again, that's terrific - I'm glad I found this forum already!