What technique maximizes depth of field when infinity is not in the background?

The technique that maximizes depth of field when infinity is not in the background is hyperfocal focusing. This method involves setting the focus distance to a point where the depth of field extends from a specific near distance to infinity. By using the hyperfocal distance, you ensure that objects both near and far from the camera remain in focus, which is particularly useful in landscape photography where infinity is not the primary focus.

When using hyperfocal focusing, the photographer focuses on a distance calculated based on the aperture, focal length, and desired depth of field, allowing for a broader range of clarity in the final image. This technique effectively balances the sharpness across the frame, making it ideal when the background does not extend to infinity.

While techniques like focus stacking, pan focus, and zone focus have their own advantages in specific scenarios, they do not optimize depth of field in the same way as hyperfocal focusing, especially when dealing with varying distances in a scene.