First Focus Stack experiment - a snowflake

Snowgirl

So, we are having a snowstorm. Following directions found in the latest issue of Outdoor Photography Canada magazine I used a woollen toque as my snowflake catcher / set and proceeded to shoot four images (handheld) at ISO 200, f/11, 1/500, focusing on various quadrants of the snowflake.

I downloaded a trial version of Zyrene stacker and assembled the images.
Then, I imported the result into Photoshop (CS5) where I did some minor curves adjustments and added a bit of sharpening. Below is the result. C&C always welcomed.

Lord Vetinari

Afraid it looks a bit of a mess to me. Can't see much structure in the snow at all. Could you see any snow flakes when you were taking the shots ?
Brian V.

Snowgirl

Lord Vetinari wrote: »

Afraid it looks a bit of a mess to me. Can't see much structure in the snow at all. Could you see any snow flakes when you were taking the shots ?
Brian V.

I could see individual flakes (the largest white 'blob' in the middle) and some of the crystal structure around the edges, but despite focusing on each individual quadrant, I suspect it's a camera shake issue more than anything. I will try again next storm with the tripod. Handheld is obviously out of the question for me. Thanks for looking, though.

Paul Iddon

Remember too Ceci that the lens is probably the hardest to master, so perseverance is key. Wish I had one to play with though...


Paul.

Snowgirl

Paul Iddon wrote: »

Remember too Ceci that the lens is probably the hardest to master, so perseverance is key. Wish I had one to play with though...


Paul.

Thanks Paul. Appreciate the sentiment.

LindaB

It really is a very hard lens to master. I recently sold mine because I didnt have the time nor the patience to perservere with it lol. I much prefer the 100mm macro to use, its so much easier lol.

Keep trying though - if you are determined enough, I am sure you will master it (unlike me lol).

Linda

Snowgirl

Thanks Linda. Hopefully the mental exercise will forestall dementia - or maybe cause it?

PappyRoot

I like it. I agree that handheld set you back. I feel using a tripot would of made it for you.