Focus stacking

[LHamel]

Hi,
Is it possible to make the focus stacking with PSPx8? If so, how is it done?

Luc

[Jean-Luc]

Do a search in this forum with the words
focus stacking

Best regards,
Jean-Luc

[LHamel]

Hi,

That's what I did before writing. I wondered if there was anything new about this option.

Thank you very much.

Luc

[MarkZ]

In general, PSP works with individual images and with the program parameters of the image can be manipulated. Even when layers are used, in the result the layers are combined. The only instance of working with multiple images is in HDR and photo blend where almost identical images are stacked based on exposure or with areas selectively removed.

I'm no expert but the way I understand it is that in focus stacking areas of images that differ only in focal point have the out of focus areas removed and what is left is stacked. There is much more involved in blending into a pleasing image. In theory, Corel could incorporate focus selection algorithms into PSP and include focus stacking along with HDR and photo blend but I think it would be a tough developmental challenge. There are easier challenges that would be used by more people such as panoramic stitching that they could offer.

I did a search for "algorithms for focus stacking" and found many references. A complex technical field.

[JoeB]

There are easier challenges that would be used by more people such as panoramic stitching that they could offer.

And with many - if not a majority - of today's cameras including excellent automatic panorama software on board even adding that feature to PSP might not find many users anymore. Probably best for Corel to improve/optimize image handling - e.g., improving the speed of large brushes and, in fact, the efficiency with which PSP handles very large image sizes during many operations.

[brucet]

There are some great specialized focus stacking programs out there now. I doubt that Corel would have much to benefit by spending time and money on a very specialized area of photography. (I use Control My Nikon).
Cameras can now take multiple photos by changing exposure settings for HDRs. My guess is that it wont be long before you see a camera that can change focus points over multiple shots as well.
As for PSP my only suggestion would be to blend multiple photos. But it would be a slow task.

regards