What is the F-stop in photography?

The F-stop in photography refers to a setting that determines the lens aperture, which controls the amount of light that enters the camera. The F-stop value is expressed as a ratio, where a lower F-stop number indicates a wider aperture, allowing more light to reach the sensor, while a higher F-stop number indicates a narrower aperture, reducing the light intake. This setting not only affects exposure but also influences depth of field, enabling photographers to achieve desired effects, such as background blur or sharp focus throughout the image. Understanding F-stops is crucial for photographers when balancing light exposure and managing the visual aspects of their compositions.