4 replies to this topic

[TeeJay]

Good day!

 

I am wondering if anyone here is shooting tethered for their macro work. I'm looking to shoot bugs/insects (dead perhaps) on a makeshift studio at home. I'll be using a Tokina 100mm for this and I would like the entire subject to be in focus so I'm looking at this software called Helicon Focus.

Can anyone share their experience or tips on using the above software? Do you know any alternative to HF?

 

TIA

[Merco_61]

I use Zerene Stacker and find it easy to use. Beware of using the focus ring for stacking with a focus breather like the Tokina or the AF Micro-Nikkors. You will get some mismatches in the stack. Use a focusing rail instead. Tethered shooting is very useful for macros, I have a shelf for the Macbook Pro I can clip to one leg on the tripod.

[TeeJay]

That's great! Thank you mate for the suggestion and tips. I'll take a look at Zerene Stacker and compare it with HF.

As for the rail, do you have any specific brand that you recommend? Or any will do such as this one:

http://www.amazon.co...90354607&sr=8-1

 

Hope to share my macro shots soon to the community. Thanks again!

 

Cheers!

[Merco_61]

The Fotodiox/Neewer rail works, but is not as sturdy as a Novoflex or RRS rail. Not surprising, since they are 30 times as expensive for a full rail set.

Fotodiox rails come with a 24 month warranty which explains the higher price compared to Neewer.

I use a Novoflex Q rail I got used 25 years ago and it is still slop-free.

 

/Peter

[TeeJay]

Thanks, Peter!