Is it possible and/or feasible to achieve focus stacking using a digital camera instead of a DSLR?

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Brenton

I have a digital camera (the Olympus Stylus Tough 3000) that I've been recently using more often. I don't have any immediate plans to buy a new camera. It's far from the highest quality camera, but it does have good macro focus, up to 2 cm.
I'm beginning to get into macro photography and realize that I could achieve a greater depth of field and sharper images using a technique called focus stacking. However, all of the tutorials I've found online mention the use of a DSLR camera for this method. There's no mentioning of this method with a regular digital camera.
As I understand it, you need to take a series of shots at varying distances in order to get a greater range of that sharpness you want to achieve. I'm very new at macro photography, so please bear with me.
Is it possible to do proper focus stacking with a normal digital camera and NOT a DSLR?

Answer
Yes it is, focus stacking software will work with image files from any camera, it's just that a DSLR can have a dedicated macro lens fitted, be easier to control and, because of the larger sensor, image quality will be better.

When taking the images a focus slide is useful, these will move the camera a small amount between shots, but keep it aligned. Something like this;-

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-Way-Macro-Focus-Rail-Slider-Slide-for-Canon-60D-600D-650D-Nikon-D7000-D90-LF25-/140892713796?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item20cddc3344

They can be used with any camera that has a tripod thread and go between the the tripod and the camera.

Chris

What is the best digital cameras with 16 and above mega pixel?

Cathrinah

I am planning to buy a compact dslr camara but I don't know hat to buy. I planned to buy Nikon coolpix P520 but the mega pixel is same as my canon dslr camera!PLEASE HELP!!!

Answer
I like Nikon camera. Nikon cameras combine single-lens reflex camera technology, with modern digital camera techniques to give you the best of photography. These type of cameras also offer a wide array of features, including bigger, brighter views, faster operation, and perhaps most importantly, support for various lenses.

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Going to fireworks tonight, what type of settings should I use on my dslr camera?

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Chelsea Sm

So I recently got a new dslr camera, I'm wondering from experienced DSLR users, what are the best settings for fireworks..like iSO, shutter spead, lens opening, etc. I've never tried to take pictures of fireworks, so I don't want to try to go thru the Hastle of trying to change settings during the fireworks, thanks a ton!

Answer
Put your camera on a tripod.
ISO on 100, medium aperture, manual focus on infinity.

One possible method is this:

Set your shutter speed to "Bulb" and use a remote shutter release.

Take a piece of matte black fabric (like velvet) and hold it in front of the lens to keep out any stray light you don't want there. Quickly lift it away just before the actual explosion of the firework. That way you won't get trails heading upwards, but only the best part of the show. Do this either just for a single bang, or repeat the process to get several of them in the same photo.

This technique can also work for lightning, although you have to be very very quick, since lighting is a lot less predictable than fireworks.

P.S. changing settings is not a "Hastle".... it isn't even a hassle..... it's what it is all about! You should embrace the opportunity to try out new things and improve your skills.

What are some good sites to learn about DSLR cameras ?

Kevin L

Hello I will be in the market to buy a decent quality DSLR camera. I know analog cameras but digital is a whole new and different thing to learn. Prefer to spend less than a grand but if it really makes a huge difference in picture quality then I will possibly spend more. Are any of these cheaper DSLRs worth the money ? Is Nikon or Canon making some of the better DSLR's or is it some new kids on the block. Leica sounds like its over priced for what they are ? Full frame or not ? I would also like to learn how to use a digital camera since its a completely different way of shooting pictures. My understanding is F stop, and shutter speed doesnt effect the picture the same way a analog camera does ? Many questions as you can see lol. So Im in need of some good resources to or even magazines or books that are really good.

Thank you
Kevin

I will be shooting mostly Macro, and static nature scenes. Will i need two lens's to get the right effects or is there one size lens I can pretty much do everything ? Thanks again for your help

Answer
Pop into a local library and have a read at some of the Photography books, you'll get a wide range of information about equipment and techniques.

I tend not to recommend internet websites as they can be a bit 'hit and miss' with information and sometimes difficult to confirm how accurate it actually is, a good 'photo guide' book will have all the latest websites listed.

Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony all make decent cameras, you will prefer one Brand to another, some cameras might feel too big or too small in your hands, some just don't feel right at all.

A wide angle to mid telephoto lens would be my recommendation, other people will advise something different - A 18-105mm lens with macro is a very good starting point.

It's really good advice to get familiar with your local camera retailer, don't be afraid to ask questions, this will give you a chance to 'hold' the equipment to see if its a 'good fit'

P.S. Leica is the Rolls Royce of cameras, all photographers would like to have at least one..!

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