Q&A (Patreon)

I've got a question: "The other area I have always struggled with is getting my whole subject in focus. I know camera focusing settings and aperture (depth of field) play a big part in that, I just have not completely figure it out yet.  I want to get a clear picture of the subject’s eye while also seeing how many hairs they have on their leg.  Do you have any advice for getting the whole body of a person in focus? What are your camera settings for your studio and how is the focus on your camera set up for studio? I’m using a 6D Mark II"

If you are a beginner, it's much easier to work in the same studio to understand which settings work for you. Put you model on the spot and make some shots with different aperture. For example, 1.8, 2.5, 3, 5 etc. You will see the difference. 

And of course, it depends. A higher aperture means less light is entering the camera. This setting is better for when you want everything in your shot to be in focus. But if you shot a portrait you don't need EVERYTHING to be in focus.Usually, only your model is important. So, you have to find a distance (between you and your model) and aperture setting that keeps them in focus. In my studio it's usually 3.5 for bodyshots with Canon camera. You can check all this tech stats on my 500px page, under every photo.  

You have to think creative when you work with aperture, because this setting can easily change your photo. But I have a simple rule. When I take headshots I can play with aperture, it's ok when hair or shoulders of your model will be out of focus a bit. It's not a mistake, that's the idea. Take a look at first and second photo. Focus on the face, on the eyes.

But when I take bodyshots, I always try to keep focus on the whole body, it's not good when some parts are out of focus. So, usual aperture numbers here. Take a look at other photos from the same photoshoot.  

And, finally. If you want to "see how many hairs they have on their leg" think about light. Flashes, softboxes, etc. Natural light, maybe is not enough, for studio shots like this. Try tripod to prevent camera movement and provide stability.