Lenses & focus / Learn by doing
Focus Stacking explained simply
What is “Focus Stacking”?
Combining several photographs focused at different distances into one image with more apparent sharpness across the subject.
- 01Front focus
- 02Back focus
- 03Merge sharp parts
How do you use Focus Stacking practically?
A small exercise
Keep the camera and product still. Take frames focused on the front, middle and back, then align and merge them in suitable software.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does Focus Stacking solve a problem?
It can make a small product sharp from front to back without using an extremely small aperture.
What can go wrong?
Moving subjects, changing light and reflective edges can create merge errors that need checking.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Front focus → Back focus → Merge sharp parts. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
Autofocus lesson — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
Planning a portrait or product session? Use the glossary with our practical shoot guides, then check the studio facilities and send your confirmed requirements with an availability enquiry.