I see that Nikon’s new D850 has an automated focus stacking feature that can be programed for up to 10 focal points and up to 300 shots and files them in its own file. Read more on Nikon Rumors.
This could be quite the tool for a model builder. Check it out!
Max
Yep, sounds like a very cool feature. I’m guessing you focus on the closest plane and the program takes over from there. I’m curious how it works if it’s fully auto or if you select parameters in advance.
If you don’t use focus stacking, there is an old macro trick. Focus about 1/3 of the way along an object (from front to back). Due to the optics of the way a lens focuses when close up, the depth of field extends further behind the plane of best focus than in front of it, and one third in front and two thirds in back is a good rule of thumb for most macro work.
Adding more info to Don’s comment. As we approach 1/1 magnification the depth of field becomes centered to 1/2 on each side and more magnification past life size (1/1) the fraction reverses. We rarely reach 1/1 in model photography but might happen in say small insect photography. Confusing huh!
Focus stacking is solving the age old problem of loss of depth of field in close up photography. There’s other ways to increase DOF by tilting the lens in relation to the sensor which also tilts the DOF at least in one plane. We can stop down to increase DOF but we cut the amount light by 1/2 each stop. Also the smaller the aperature the less sharp the image is. Some of the last aperatures may be unusable due to diffraction. (Another subject).
When we approach and pass 1/1 we are projecting the image like a slide projector. To make the image bigger we have to move the projector further away which means that the light falls off with the square of the distance. Yet another problem. Ah, but part of the problem has been solved with higher ISOs and auto exposure which started to be a factor even at 1/4 life size. At 1/1, two stops had to be added manually.
There’s nothing easy about close-up photography but technology is making it easier is my point.
Max
A buddy using a used Oly mirrorless has this feature. It works well. I’ve seen results. It works handheld. Handheld.
I can imagine it works well on the 850, but they (Nikon) are a little late to the party as usual. (and I say that as a Nikon fan. My FF stuff is Nikon)
I wonder how long until our cell phone will do focus stacking?
Now if I only had $3,200 dollars to buy one. I think I will buy the software for $140 that will give me same effect.
Marcus… Can you share what software you are looking at? I am thinking about buying software as well.
Helicon Focus and Zerene Stacker are the two accepted standards, as far as I know.
I did the 30 day trail with Zerene and though it is fast and works well, for no more than I am doing I just use the built in stacking function of Photoshop.
Greg is correct. I have my eye on the Helicon Focus.
Mark
I didn’t mean to be rude by jumping your answer, Mark. [:$]
Thank you both.