Martin Parr | The Last Resort New Brighton, England. 1983-85. © Martin Parr | Magnum Photos
In this example of short depth of field, we can clearly see the two children but the background is blurred. We are able to focus on all of the details of the children including what they’re wearing and eating. However in the background, we are able to see vague details such as the fence, but it is blurred along with the sitting area to the left. To bring more focus to the foreground, the background is left out of focus.
The midground is soft but details can still be seen, but I agree the fence and beyond are softer still. His subjects are the sharpest.