In Where To Focus pt1 we looked at images which have a definitive subject, now it's time to see where to focus when the whole image is the subject as with a landscape or in this case, seascape.

First you need to think the shot through. Start with setting up your auto focus. For a scene you need to choose a point within it to place the point of focus so select single point AF mode so you're in control not the camera.

For front to back sharpness you'll need a lot of depth of field so you'll need a small aperture. With a short lens which is often more appropriate for this type of image, you have a lot of depth of field to play with because different focal lengths have different depth of field characteristics. (see lenses change 3 things)

With a scene it's best to include some foreground in the composition to give the photo a sense of depth and it's important to know where to focus so your 'block' of depth of field is in the right place to get everything sharp.

Take a couple of test shots and take your time. Always check the image in your camera's LCD to make sure everything is sharp before you move on too.

• I Mess Up Salsibury Catherdral Photo Shoot - EP31
• Photographing A Landscape Landmark PT2 - EP30
• Photographing A Landscape Landmark PT1 - EP29
• Exposure Bracketing Explained - EP28
• Woodland Photography with Gary Gough - EP27