NorthernPixl

Focus Stacking Field Guide

A complete focus stacking field guide built around your own camera, stacking software, and finishing editor - shooting technique, frame-count and step-size guidance for your subject, a stacking-software walkthrough, and a full editing workflow, downloadable as a PDF.

Want more than one guide? Bundle & save →

Already bought a guide? Enter your code:

Preview

01 · Before you shoot

  • Camera body, battery full + sparesA long stack sequence with a remote or in-camera bracket mode can take a while to fire through
  • Sturdy tripodEvery frame in the stack needs to line up on everything except focus distance, the tripod is what makes that possible
  • Lens suited to your subjectA dedicated macro lens (typically 90–105mm) for true close-up work

+ 7 more items in the full pack list

What's inside the full guide

  • 02Setting up & shooting the stackFraming and the focus-shift shooting sequence, tailored to your subject.
  • 03Settings by subjectAperture, focal length and frame-count guidance worked out for your subject.
  • 04Merging the stackStep-by-step merging in your chosen stacking software.
  • 05Finishing the imageA full finishing workflow in your chosen editor, from merged stack to finished image.

You might also like

Exposure Bracketing Field Guide→Waterfalls Field Guide→

Recommended Gear

Tack-sharp, front to back

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Artcise Carbon TripodA rock-solid foundation is non-negotiable for long exposures on the windy Northumberland coast. Carbon fibre absorbs vibration better than aluminium and saves weight on long hikes.Remote ShutterEnsures absolutely zero camera shake for long exposures. It also allows me to lock the shutter open for 'Bulb' mode exposures longer than 30 seconds.Sony F4 24-105mmThe 'do it all' lens. If I'm hiking and only want one lens, this is it. It covers wide landscapes at 24mm to short telephoto portraits at 105mm, offering incredible versatility without changing lenses.