Which term describes the range of distance in a shot where objects appear in focus?

The term that describes the range of distance in a shot where objects appear in focus is known as depth of field (DOF). This concept is crucial in cinematography and photography because it determines how much of the scene is sharp and clear, influencing the visual composition and storytelling. A shallow depth of field isolates the subject from the background, drawing the viewer's attention, while a deep depth of field allows for more elements within the frame to be in focus, providing context and detail. Understanding DOF assists creators in making deliberate choices about focus to evoke specific emotional responses and convey narrative effectively.

The other terms pertain to different aspects of photography and cinematography. Lead room refers to the space in front of a moving subject, helping to create a sense of motion. Minimum object distance (MOD) defines the closest distance at which a camera can focus on an object, whereas great depth of field describes a situation with a significant range of distance in focus but does not specify the technical measure like depth of field does.