Focus with a Set Aperture

For experimenting with a set aperture and different focus points, I mounted my camera on a tripod and employed my Sigma 70-300mm telephoto lens, which has a macro function in the 200-300mm range. I knew that by combining a wide aperture with a long lens and the ability to focus closer to the subject with the macro function, I would be able to achieve very shallow depth of field. The camera was struggling to auto-focus on the near-most edge of the front coin in the first image, so I adjusted the focus manually. I was able to successfully auto-focus pictures two and three.

240mm, f/5.3, 1/15, ISO 800 

240mm, f/5.3, 1/15, ISO 800 

240mm, f/5.3, 1/15, ISO 800 

In terms of preference, I think in this particular case it is hard to judge and each image fulfills a different role. The first image draws the viewer's eye directly to the front of the stack of coins, and even though the rest is in focus, you can still see enough to put the in-focus coin in context. The second image brings the eye directly into the middle of the pile of coins, and here you can also see more denominations where perhaps the additional colours and textures provide more interest. The third image leads you straight to the back, and you are now able to make out the word 'Euro' on one of the notes which gives the viewer more information about which particular currency they are looking at. On reflection I think I like the middle image the best, simply due to the extra textural interest.