SpikeW Loc: Butler PA

I am interested in focus stacking mostly for landscapes and flowers etc.
I know I can go to Lightroom and photoshop as I have used Lightroom before and photoshop can do the stacking and much more. Then there is Helicon focus as another option. I have luminar 4 on my computer now so I have an editing system. Now I would like to have opinions as the best way to go for someone who is not really a computer literate person and I still have a film mentality so I don't do large volume shooting projects.I thank you all beforehand.

Strodav Loc: Houston, Tx

I am happy with the workflow of importing all the images into Lightroom, with the whole group do any initial color / exposure editing, sharpening, ... , select them all then edit in PS. There are a bunch of Youtube tutorials about how to do it step by step.

For landscapes / seascapes / cityscapes, I usually take 3 shots, focus close, focus mid, focus far then combine. For flowers and most bugs, usually about 30. The caterpillar below was 30.

(Download)

Cany143 Loc: SE Utah

I do a lot of focus stacking, the majority of which is ostensibly 'landscape' sorts of images, but also relatively close-up (but not truly macro) images as well. Many of my images are shot hand-held --recognizing at the same time that tripod mounted shots will be easier to deal with in post, but for me, tripod mounted shots are not always practical-- so I've developed a shooting 'technique' that allows me to make from 3 to 5 exposures (about all that's usually needed for landscape stuff) that include my choice of either manually re-focused or A/F 'spot' re-focused exposures with little appreciable camera movement between shots. Back home, my workflow begins by importing the raw exposures into Lr, potentially making some slight adjustments to the first of a stack, applying those adjustments to the remainder of the exposures, then each are sent as layers to Ps where they're stacked, aligned, and blended. Its not uncommon for me to variously modify, clone, or eliminate portions of individual layers prior to blending, and its similarly not uncommon for me to need to go in and do some 'repair' work in areas that did not 'blend' perfectly. After that, the image is 'returned' to Lr where other adjustments will likely be made. Actually, it sounds a lot more complicated than it is in practice, and it probably took me longer to write this than the 'repairs' would take to actually do.

I downloaded and used evaluation versions of two of the other well known stacking softwares, but found neither to be significantly better than the softwares I already have and am more than comfortable in using (the current subscription versions of Lr and Ps), so I saw no advantage in spending money for something I really didn't need.

That's me, though, and its not you. I am relatively well versed in computer use, so I suspect your goals more depend on what you're willing or able to learn. However far you hope or intend to go, though, DO NOT expect to find a 'one-click' solution to perfect focus stacking.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

I use Photoshop for 90% of my focus stacks, and for the remaining 10% I use Helicon. Improving your computer literacy should a goal for 2021 - it will help you with anything and everything that involves computers.

awenderoff

I've been very happy with Helicon Remote

cactuspic Loc: Dallas, TX

I focus stack often, primarily in the macro/closeup arena. I use either Helicon or Zerene as subjects that I shoot tend to be relatively deep and have numerous hairs or spines that protrude through numerous zone of focus. This makes the masking in in Photoshop problematic. For subjects that have relatively few layers (such as most landscapes) or a relatively regular contour, I have had good luck with Photoshop. I will have to try the newest version of Photoshop to see if they have any improvements. I was unable to use Affinity as they would only process a very short stack, but again, the current version may be improved.

Edit: both Zerene and Helicon have free 30 trial periods.

bikerguy

I use PhotoShop for all my focus stacked images, Luminar 4 does not support focus stacking. However, if you do not have PhotoShop there are several free focus stacking programs you can try before buying either PhotoShop or Helicon. Additionally, some of the software that comes with the cameras support focus stacking. I know that Olympus Workspace and Canon DPP both support focus stacking, at least for certain cameras. Nikon's might as well.

If you have Photoshop use it, if not use one of the free programs until you need more controls than they offer. There is even a free online program that stacks.

DirtFarmer Loc: Escaped from the NYC area, back to MA

The best way to do that is to ask questions. There are plenty of people on this site who will be happy to help you improve your ability to use your computer.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

Yes, but computer literacy has little to do with this topic. The OP is looking for stacking software, not instruction in computer literacy. Getting some fundamental instruction will hopefully address the knowledge gaps that those less knowledgeable may have. Asking questions and getting answers to those questions may not adequately address these gaps.

SpikeW Loc: Butler PA

Thank you all. I had thought that the LR photoshop might be the way to go and it seems to be what most of you use. I also realize that I probably won't be up to the quality I see here but ego forces me to try. One other thing is that I have a lot less miles to go. I have tried a lot of ways to get sharp focus through the whole depth of a picture and I know my equipment is not the top of the line but it is adequate for me. (D7500) I would like to leave behind some record of my being here and I would like it to be as good as I can leave it and it would be nice if I didn't have to have a password. Thanks again everyone.

Cany143 Loc: SE Utah

Spike said: "I would like to leave behind some record of my being here and I would like it to be as good as I can leave it...."

And I'd say that's as perfect a way to approach 'it all' as can conceived. Kudos, Spike!

Dunworking Loc: Surrey in the UK

Hi my name is Gordon i live in the UK the program that i use is Affinity Photo it has all the things you need and it is auto just enter the phots and press go

Dunworking Loc: Surrey in the UK

Try Affinity Photo it is a lot quiker than photoshop

jackm1943 Loc: Omaha, Nebraska

Do not overlook Zerene, a very popular software with many of the better macro photogs here. Relatively inexpensive, free trial if desired, easy to use, etc, etc. Much better than PS IMO.

joecichjr Loc: Chicago S. Suburbs, Illinois, USA

Beauty💕