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Experiment in focus stacking in macro
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Decided to try focus stacking to see if I could get more DOF in macro. The first image is a straight shot at lifesize & the second is made up from 8 images taken at slightly different points of focus & blended in combineZM software. It wouldn’t work for moving subjects unfortunately. :(Nice attempt Miki, did you use a focusing rail?
I have been trying out the new version of CombineZP as opposed to ZM and I have come to the conclusion that to get it really exact that a focusing rail would be required when using a Macro lens to produce a clean final image.
You must bear in mind that turning the ring on a Macro lens attached to a camera on a fixed tripod is not focusing, it is changing the magnification by very small amounts. It is not very noticeable until you execute the Macro Do Stack and you can then see artefacts and halos.
When using a focusing rail the magnification remains constant as long as you don’t touch the lens ring, the focusing is done by moving the lens closer to different points on the subject by minute amounts and would I think produce a better and cleaner image after the stack is executed.
My opinion on this of course, not necessarily right and open to correction. I am hoping to pick up a Focusing Rail to try this out in a more controlled manner and will update with my results soon…………./MikkaHi Mikka.
Yes I used a focusing rail (a manfrotto one) for this. It allows minute adjustments to be made by moving the camera slightly forward or backward. I found that while doing this that sometimes the camera moves in a sidewards direction & care needs to be taken while making adjustments or the images won’t line up properly for merging. A movement of 1 or two milimeters to the side at lifesize or above can appear huge & will ruin the blending.
I’ve only recently got the focusing rail & am just trying it out, but can see some difficulties using it already (as mentioned, some of the movements can be quiet coarse). Another problem I’ve found is that the rear adjustment screw lies very close to the viewfinder & I tend to hit my cheek on it every now & again. I’ve ordered an angled viewer to try combat this. :DHi Miki,
Is this the rail you used “Manfrotto 454 Micro-Position Plate”. I was thinking of getting this particular one myself../Mikka
Stacking is a great idea. Thanks for the food for thought. I think i may give it a go and see what i get but i am sure it wont be as good as your diamond. I have been having problems with the focal surface area and i was thinking the only way to solve it was a really expensive lens. if i get any half decent results on my stacking experiment i will post it here.
=)Hi Mikka. This is the version I’m using http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-454-Micrometric-Positioning-Sliding/dp/B0019I4A2G” onclick=”window.open(this.href);return false; and think it’s the same one. It seems to have a few different names.
Taraliggett I hope it helps solve whatever issue you are having. Definitely worth trying out.Thanks
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