Focus Stacking Images: More Than Meets the Eye

I am brand new to focus stacking. In fact, I didn't even know it was a thing up until a few weeks ago. For those also new to this, focus stacking involves taking a series of images of the same item at various focal lengths and then stacking and blending them in Photoshop.

In theory, the result should be one sharply-focused image. In practice, this is sometimes what happens.

Focus Stacked Purple Basil Flowers | Sony a7R IV | 105mm | ISO 800 | f/4.5 | 1/6

I have some theories as to why the above purple basil bloom ended up looking distorted. For one, greed. I'm kidding, but maybe not. I started playing with focus stacking after reading one article, so I had no idea limits were possible. Like any addict, I thought that if five or six images are able to produce one crisp image, than 47 would create the most increble result known to man. Instead, I learned a valuable lesson - sometimes less is more.

Focus Stacked Purple Basil Flowers | Sony a7R IV | 105mm | ISO 800 | f/4.5 | 1/6

The second image uses shots from that same series, but I limited the focus stack to ten pictures. I was more selective in the range I chose to focus in on. While there are minor errors, using a handful of currated images resulted in a better final product. The photos in this blog were taken on a Sony a7R IV using a Sigma 105mm Macro Lens, which produces a limited depth of field, but provides incredible up-close details.

When all the images align and they blend just right - it feels a bit like catching lightning in a bottle. There's a moment when you're waiting for Photoshop to process the final output that has a similar feeling to watching an unboxing video. The time and patience becomes worth it when you produce the image you invisioned. This hibiscus is probably one of my better focus stack results so far.

Focus Stacked Hibiscus Flower | Sony a7R IV | 150-600mm | ISO 100 | f/14 | 1/100

I don't love the shadow at the top, but I do love that you are able to see the intricate white viens running the length of the white hibiscus petals. Plus, the stigma, style, filaments, and anthers are all in focus. This stack was created using eight images and was taken at Huntley Meadows Park.

I keep experimenting with focus stacking and will share any new tricks I pick up along the way. I hope you get a chance to play around with this technology too! I would love to hear what is working and what is not in your experience.

Happy stacking!