Please put me down as one interested in your handmade slider project video. I enjoy building your projects such as the light cage for one. I did build the cage and it is an excellent project for the handy person. I built mine over a single weekend. The time it took to build it was mostly spent sourcing and purchasing the items I didn't already have. So, with that said thanks for all you have done to ignite in me the spark of fun and enjoyment you have given me. I have my orange and onion ready to go! Thanks so much, Sir Allen:)
I really appreciate the wealth of your macro photography knowledge. Thank you for sharing. Macro is something that can help us get through the Coronovirus threat
I came back to this video after your 2 "Going Deep" videos. I won´t go into "Going Deep" before I have the focus rail clear. We´ll see! Thanks for your videos.
Hi Allan, I agree totally with you about the Cognisys rail which I have used for a couple of years now. When I first started stacking images of Bryophytes I saw a rig that Des Callaghan in the UK had put together where he had linked the fine focus knob on a microscope to some gears and a motor.This produced excellent results. I am not an engineer and had no idea how to do what Des did. Just recently I discovered that Wemacro are actually marketing a stacking device which does exactly what Des did some years back. I now have one and have used it quite a few times. It is very impressive and easy to use. The. bluetooth software is free and very easy to use. It works on a phone, pad or laptop, including Macs. I have since purchased one of their rails to try. The Wemacro product quality seems very good and their prices are more competitive than Cognisys. I continue to use my Cognisys but am looking forward ti trying the Wemacro when I have gathered all the bits and pieces you have recommended together. Barry
Great Series Allan! Re: your comments on the WeMacro rail - while it does have facility to to use Bluetooth via your phone (& my experience is it works 100% of the time) - you haven't mentioned that it also uses a cable direct to to PC/camera as a standard option as well. So compared to the likes of the expensive Stackshot, I found the WeMacro to be a great piece of kit that does a superb job...
Thank you Alan. I love your videos. Your open and relaxed technique makes it easy to learn. You share your extensive knowledge and experience so very clearly. Well done. I have a slider that I have fitted a stepper motor to it. I asked the local high school robotics club to write some Arduino code for me but after 2 years waiting I am going to have to do it myself. I have purchased kit and am up to learning to write the code and build the controller. Please share your project with us. I am particularly interested in the code and circuit. If I can get up and going am happy to share any experiences. From lock down here “Down Under” in Adelaide South Australia a big thank you for what you do.
Hi Allan I am learning so much from your videos. I would like to see videos on your motorized slider project. Thank you so much for the effort you put into your videos.
@@AllanWallsPhotography Allan, I posted a DIY macro slider video on your Community page. It's worth taking a look at. If nothing else, it's a new perspective on how others have created one for their requirements.
I very much enjoy your videos so very much. I'm fairly new to macro and despite watching most of your videos I have not heard you mention the best way to securely mount the rail so it is solid yet portable. In your lighting cage DYI video you did show a block of wood but I wasn't sure how the rail is attached or, for that matter, if that is the best approach for rail mounting. You seem to be very busy and must spend countless hours answering questions and I am sure all your comments and responses to your views are appreciated. If there is a way to address this rail mounting question, it would be deeply appreciated as well. Best and thanks again for your time and effort in providing such useful & informative content.
Thanks so much for this content. I am in the process of deciding on a Focus Rail for my macro set up. I'm shooting the Canon sR5 with the Canon 65MPE lens. Your content is fun and useful. I've pretty much decided on the Manfrotto rail but the motorized rail intrigues me.
You will eventually want to get a motorized rail, both for accuracy of steps and ease of use. I am doing a low cost DIY build this spring as part of a new DIY series I am working on. Should be interesting!
@@PimentelPortfolio The gold standard is Stackshot by Cognisys, but they are expensive. A couple of Chinese outfits are competing at a lower price but there is a lot to consider when buying a precision instrument (like product support and warrantees). I have made a few over the years, and they are not that difficult to build - you just need a high quality linear actuator, but you need to have a controller/interface and that is where Stackshot shines. There are plenty of others but Stackshot, WeMacro and MJKZZ are the three you will probably want to look at. Unless you are a billionaire... if you are, then you should look at the Novoflex as well. Most serious macro folks end up with a Stackshot eventually (no data on that).
An orange and an onion... I can do that. Thank God you did not ask me to buy a roll of toilet paper and a bottle of hand sanitizer. I appreciate the advice on the focus rail. I bought a cheap Neewer rail for the macro cage project, which works fine, but I have noticed exactly the points you brought up about the creep that can happen when trying to make very small adjustments. I will keep the Manfrotto 454 in mind. It is sitting in my Amazon cart now, so I will look at it there so I can hit "buy now" as soon as I get frustrated with the rail I have again. As always, your videos are enjoyable and helpful. Stay healthy my friend. Also, I would love to see the video explaining how to motorize a rail. That would be interesting.
Good information per usual Allan. I use a Wemacro rail cabled to my laptop. The Bluetooth allows use in the field with the battery pack if you don't want to bring a laptop.
Thanks Alan. Several people have corrected me on the connection options with your device. I have already recorded a correction, in the next video. I need to get one and give it a good going over. Everyone that I know who has one, loves it. Thanks again!
Excellent videos as always Allan, While the Stackshot is the Rolls-Royce for focus stacking, so far I've been using Helicon Remote on a tablet WIFI to my Canon 80D with good success in the field. While I haven't figured out the the actual unit distance of the focusing ring (automated by Helicon Remote), I can calibrate it with the software and if necessary double the number of increments to ensure no slice if missing during stacking with Zerene Stacker - my go-to stacking software. Seeds, flowers, etc... down to 1-2 mm stack well with up to 150 frames, possibly more. Will look at Stackshot sometime in the future. Looking forward to your future videos!
Thanks David... It's one of the things I really love about macro photography - there are so many creative ways to skin a macro cat (what a disgusting thought!). When I first started I had a cheap helicoid that I operated manually, and I got great results. The expensive gear just makes it more efficient and less labor intensive - not necessarily better!
Hi Allan I have been using the cognysis stack shot at my work and can say that it is working superb. I have used it where i had to take up to 150-200 photos, and then stacked them with Helicon focus ;o))
Thanks Allan for sharing your knowledge and your video's, btw the automated rail of wemacro has also software for an computer and it is simple and it works fine. greetings from Holland
Thanks for the video Allan. I have changed my mind on which macro rail to purchase over 100 times. About 10 of those have been for the manfrotto you mentioned. I was looking at a few other nore expensive options but the manfrotto seems to be a good option for the price. Especially if I don't really get into macro photography. Thanks for your insight. I subscribed to your channel and I look forward to learning more from you. Make it a great day.
I've had my StackShot for about 7 years now. You are right, I paid too much for it, but it sure is nice. I need to get the Arcaswiss adapter for it though. It is a pain having to screw the camera down every time you use it. I also use HeliconRemote sometimes for focus stacking. It will change the focus ring on your camera without having to touch the camera. Thanks again Allan, I sure do enjoy your videos.
Had the same experience as David Tyler; using a Canon d550 with the 100 mm macro (i have the “cheap” one, not the “red” one) Helicon can control the focus and do a stack for you. Probably all Canon DSLRS will work. Have no experience with Nikon cameras, but Helicon lists them too as compatible.Ron Hart
Thanks David! I would get frustrated in a hurry if I didn't have the RSS quick release for mounting the camera. There are plenty of far less expensive QR plates out there. I use this $14 Andoer QR plate. It works perfectly well. www.amazon.com/Andoer®-Release-Adapter-Compatible-Manfrotto/dp/B016D6AM16/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=quick+release+plate&qid=1584558318&sr=8-9
Very interested in your rail project Allan. I'm just about to start one myself. Great video. The first rail you demonstrated is really better used to align the camera for panorama's. I use the bellows.
Thanks for a good review. My first rail I bought was the Manfrotto rail, hated it. Every lock down (brass knob) resulted in serious movement. I eventually bought a china version from Ali Express, love it. I have been thinking of selling my Italian engineered Manfrotto but after your review I will give it another bash as I could have been using it wrong LOL.
@@me4jas Hi. The "Brand" I got was "Shoot". Most of the China Focus rails are the same, they just put another brand on it. The current brand that is the same as mine is the RYH 4 way focus rail. Does not break the bank and I use mine a lot.
@@masterwizard2881 Thanks for replying. I just googled and yes you are right. Most of the product images seems same but brand name is different. I will try one of those. Thanks again.
I use an Edelkrone SliderONE v2 for automated focus stacking. It's meant to be a slider and used for video/timelapse but you can set it to automatically take a certain number of shots over a very small distance and it works well. You set the shot up with a phone/ipad but it's not needed during the shooting.
Hi Alan, Just seen your video. I bought a cheapo rail like your Option 2 and yes, it works, but not accurately enough for close to, or greater than 1:1 macro. I also bought a Manfrotto 454 rail and I agree that is so much better but I found a lot of backlash in the screw thread and the platform was not rigid enough - it tended to move around sideways - or juddered. I then bought a WE MACRO rail and that is excellent. Once set-up, I have never had any problem with the phone/bluetooth connection. The whole rail and motor assy. is rigid and there is little or no sideway movement. Setting up a whole series of step focus shots is easy - I expect it to be much the same as the Cognisys. Fore/aft movement as little as 0.002 mm is claimed. I use it for 5:1 Macro shots. Stephen.
Hi Stephen, you are absolutely correct - manual rails, even the best of them, are no match for the well engineered automated rails. But they are really different tools. The manual rails, even given their tendency for backlash, are perfectly good for low magnification applications. I use a manual rail frequently, even though I have several automated systems in the studio. But for short steps, nothing beats a good rail like the WeMacro.
For what it's worth, I just bought a SWEBO LS-001, Lead Screw Macro Focusing, Accuracy 0.01 mm by SWEBO and it is terrific!! The price is way high at $179 but maybe that is deserved. I have not compared it with any other manual sliders.
I’ve had no complaints with the Stack Shot. Been using for about 10 years, with just one minor issue...just recently in fact. Had to replace the cable that controls the motor, but that’s it. The controller is a bit dated and probably could be improved but as for functionally, it’s perfectly fine. With Zerene Stacker, a simple interface program makes the combination well worth the investment. The Manfrotto is a great bang for the buck...I used it prior to the Shot Shot.
I'd like to see the full build of a focusing rail. What are you planning to do with the box of parts you have? Also, what about the concerns about changing the distance from the focal plane of the camera (sensor) to subject? Doesn't that change the size of the image projected onto the sensor? Would that affect the focus stacking process? Also, i understand that the Nikon D850 has built-in focus stacking.
Bluetooth on the WeMacro works reliably, but that's not the only option. You can direct connect to a computer or portable device (via USB To Go). Helicon remote can also control WeMacro. There's no way I could rationalize the price of a Stackshot.
Great video. I ended up going for a Velbon Super Mag Slider instead of the Manfrotto. It's a bit more expensive, but also feels easier to control than the Manfrotto.
Hi, it is another very good rail, for sure. There are actually quite a few precise and affordable rails out there - I went with the Manfrotto because of the relatively affordable price point. Truth is, with patience, we can make almost anything work for most typical situations.
Sticking with Nikon, a better, and less expensive alternative to the PB-6 bellows is Nikon's PG-2 focusing rail. Like the bellows, beautifully engineered.
They also have a Mac interface with Ethernet cable fo WeMacro. It works well and is simple. I am very pleased with mine and recommend it heartily. It connected to my iMac without having to download drivers
Hi Jim. I discovered that fact after releasing the video - and it is an important point. I will mention this in the next macro video. I am also going to order one of these rails myself, so that I can have first hand experience for future discussions. Thanks for bringing this to everyone's attention!
Hi Allan Just wondering where you get the pin grabber from ? Really enjoying the videos , and am due to start a Light cage for macro but I feel i might see if it can be done to accommodate a water dropper too or I could build a smaller one for that . Keep up the good work :-)
Hi Michael, sorry for the late response - way behind on email! If you go to my last video, right here, ruclips.net/video/tqbUinSaLls/видео.html you will find a link in the show notes - that'll take you right to the pin grabber. Thanks!
This is very helpful! I'm surprised you didn't cover many of the dual-axis sliders that are on sale everywhere... (velben, oben) as examples on B&H. The comments seem to indicate that they use plastic interior parts even though they are advertised as aluminum construction.
Hey everyone! In this video I made a pretty dismissive remark about the MJKZZ focusing rail. Since then, I have spent some time with the rail, and in conversations with a couple of viewers who are using it. It is actually a very solid, high performance, easy to use macro focusing rail. I may do a full review video at some point, but for now, if you were discouraged from investing in one of these rails because of anything I said, please don't be. It looks like a very smart buy. Anyone interested in a slightly used StackShot?
I don't think your comment was dismissive. You just indicated your opinion of the name. I agree with you about the name. Perhaps it is an acronym? Maybe the initials of the founders of the company? Either way, it didn't come across as indicating a poorly designed product. A high quality product is a high quality product no matter what its name. oh yes, I'd like to see your review if you choose to do one. I too find your videos enjoyably informative.
@@johnwolf1951 Thanks! I am not having much luck with orders from the East - waiting on a couple of adapters from 4 months back - so I will wait for things to calm down before I order the rail. I'm looking forward to giving it a try!
@@kevintewksbury5670 Hi Kevin, I was just kidding to emphasize what a solid piece of the kit the MKJZZ rail seems to be. Even though the competition is heating up, the StackShot still reigns supreme and is central to my extreme macro workflow. I wish you luck finding one - they seem to be showing up less and less on the used market, and the used prices are pretty close to the new purchase prices from Cognisys.
The wemacro doesnt rely solely on phone/bluetooth connectivity. I've used mine daily for several months with PC control and zero issues. It's also accurate to a couple microns(maybe one cant recall the exact spec) performance is flawless in my experience for about $350 US shipped.
@@AllanWallsPhotography keep up the good work sir! It was quite the treat to discover your old dog new tricks account! I had no idea you were a coil builder as well!
I also bit the bullet and got a stackshot.........it may cost more than I wanted to pay but my stacks range from 60+ to 350+ shots and there was no way in hell I was going to sit and manually turn that F*
Hi Terry, The deepest stack I have attempted manually, using a micrometer rail, was 211. It took me hours to shoot and it turned out quite well. But what an inefficient way to manage my time! I am very glad to have the Stackshot, but for those who just can't justify the cost, it can be done manually. I wish they wouldn't gouge customers by using an unnecessary proprietary shutter release cable.
Hello Allen. As you know I have the Mkjzz rail. The rail come complete, you put the top on. Cost USD $275.00 Putting it together is a breeze. I have yet to figure out how to use it. A "me" issue. It comes with a holding stand.The cables are made for your camera brand. The program (instructions,which I printed off and carry with the rail) it uses is downloaded from the net. I can use either my laptop or my phone to run it BUT I need different cables. The adjustments can be set really small and it is a well built unit. YES, waiting on parts is an issue even before the virus crisis. I have been waiting for months for spare parts, read I don't need theses to work,I lose things like small screws.Also the phone set up is an "extra" and that is "someplace". Great advise, thank you for sharing. Please build the slider. The country is in lock down so going out is NOT an option for the next 2 weeks.
My Mkjzz rail was not so clean, there will be a lot of play on the bearings. I replaced it and now it is fine! A lot of work and figuring out what to order.
Hey Dave. I should have spoken to you before making this video. I was under the impression that there was quite a bit more to the construction of the rail. I am still reluctant to rely on Chinese exporters for tech. I have now got 6 separate orders for inexpensive adapters, and assorted parts, that are all more than 2 months overdue. And like you say, it was like this long before our current troubles. I wish I had learned how to work with metal, or had a 3D printer - I could make almost everything I need. Is the user manual for your rail available online? I'll try to track it down - I would learn a lot from that. Thanks again for the great information!
Thank you for your video its good to get some help I am kinda new to this so have one of those cheap focus rails but wonder how good the Sunwayfoto MFR-150 is thanks :-)
Hi Angela, I actually like the MFR-150. It is relatively inexpensive, but well engineered with pretty decent tolerances. It has a little more backlash than I would like, and screw thread is slightly courser than more expensive rails. If you follow one rule, you should be able to get fantastic results with this device - never reverse the direction of the rail once you start shooting your stack. If you do that, backlash will not come into play. I removed the adjustment handle on my MFR-150 and replaced it with a much larger ring (a repurposed nylon gear wheel), and I was very happy with accuracy and usability of the rail. But even without that, this is a solid device that will serve you well!
@@AllanWallsPhotography thank for that I might look into the Manfrotto one now and I have just subscribed to you now so hopefully I can get macro help :-)
I Have wemacro, i love it... Simple to use, i purely use Bluetooth/phone for it. one time i had weird problem. I used start-end mode it went backward all the way, didn't stopped programmed start position 🙈
Excellent review! Thanks for taking the time to educate others. The Manfrotto 454 seems like a great way to go for a first step into the macro world. Am I correct that one CAN mount the 454 on a quick release plate for either a ball head or a pan & tilt head, but that the attachment of the 454 to a camera CANNOT be by means of a quick release plate? If both of the above are correct, that's fine. I want to be able to mount the 454 on a moveable tripod head, not on the top plate of the tripod itself.
Hi Scott, the 454 can be mounted on a QR plate so it can easily be used on any tripod head. You don't have to use a QR plate on top of the rail - you can attach the camera directly. But I use a another QR plate on top of the rail so that I can easily remove or reposition my camera without a screwdriver. If you shoot me an email (contact@allanwallsphotography.com), I will send you a couple of pictures showing how I use the 454 for maximum versatility.
I really like you how you explain,criticize and joke.But above all how you explain. Yes I'm one of those who which to watch the video. I have send you a video on your personal Fb. \Thanks for sharing.
I've just found your excellent video at the right time. I am hoping to convert a manual rail using a stepper motor, easydriver board and an Arduino.I am considering the ABKT-MFR4-5 Macro Focusing Rail 4-Way Macro Slide which I think is similar to the Oban design, do you think this would suitable rail to convert Best regards Martin
Amazing review Allan. Love how you provide insights from your experience. I was wondering if you have changed your mind since this video, epsecially with you being so impressed with the NiSi rail?
I have changed my opinion. It isn't that unusual, with the bar being constantly raised by competing manufacturers. I look at a lot more equipment than I review - it doesn't seem very helpful to review stuff that I would never buy myself - you have to kiss a lot of frogs! But the NiSi rail really is a better tool that the 454, in my opinion, even though there isn't a lot in it. They are both very nice rails.
@@AllanWallsPhotography sorry I meant to ask if you have updated it based on your new review. I just wanted to ask you if you would recommend the NiSi over the Manfrotto given your recently reviewed it. I have been looking for sliders in that price range and came upon the NiSi and am glad that you had reviewed it. You review answered all the questions I had and then some. Thanks again Allan.
@@TheRameshkumarm Haha - that's what I was meaning to say - doing this review was what convinced me that the NiSi was the better product for precision manual stacking. I think you will agree!
My Fuji cameras can focus bracket on their own. You can set 100:exposures, and it I’ll take 100 shots and adjust the focus automatically. Thoughts on using that?
Hi Allan I love your instructive site. I was looking at your suggestions for simple stacking rails. I started off with a 'proxxon 27100 micro compound table kt 70' which has a fine scale of 0.05mm, It costs abut $75 from Amazon. It's superior to the Manfrotto and gives movement in 2 planes, X&Y and cost about the same.
@@bobsmith2243 Hi Bob. Thanks for the advice. I'll have to look into doing similar, because the reviews are very mixed on actual macro rails in that price range and for the amount of macro work I do, I can't really justify the expense of a Kirk or RRS one :-(
@@davidf6326 I seem to remember I searched my junk box and found something with a 1/4 inch screw and it had a flat plate on the end which I cut down to fit the slots on the Proxon. I mounted the rail on a ply wood disc which was then stuck on to a couple of 2 kg weightlifting weights using Araldite.
As you are my source of macro wisdom... New to macro. Looking at Novoflex. I use a Sony 6100 E-Mount. How important is the swing/tilt on this format? I have never seen you use or refer to swing/tilt, that alone gives me pause. In the face of a $1800.00 spend. They offer without the tilt/shift at $999.00 ... Worth it or pass?
Hey Joe - great question! The only reason I haven't talked much about the tilt-shift-swing capabilities of the Novoflex (or the Nikon PB-4 bellows, for that matter) is that I don't own the equipment. I would love to have a rail or bellows setup that would allow me to use perspective correction - it is a very powerful tool and great fun to use. If I could afford one I would most assuredly have it in my studio. The same goes for a tilt-shift wide-angle macro lens. I am going to try to borrow or rent one of these devices to do a couple of tutorials in the new year. As for your question, if you can afford it, go for it - you will be glad to have it (and then you can rent it to me for a weekend! Win-win-win!)
As an amateur I appreciate your being practical about cost. I don't want to waste money on junk but a rail setup that approaches a good lens in cost is a bit much for me. The 454 is about where I get comfortable. In another review it was noted there was what looked like a lot of "wobble" between the rail and the adjusting assembly (front to back). Since I would be shooting with a remote shutter release I would imagine this would not be a major problem. Did you find the wobble getting in your way with the Manfrotto?
Hi Rich, I must say I have never experienced the wobble you describe. Unless the reviewer was talking about backlash. It does have a little backlash (play before the screw engages), but all rails do. As long as you are moving in one direction it should make no difference. I love that rail and, for the money, it is my favorite manual rail, by far. Go for it!
@@AllanWallsPhotography Alan, thanks for the quick response. I figure if the play is excessive I could add some UHMW tape between the rail and the adjusting assembly. I was about to spring for the Hoage MFR-180 but your review convinced me to go for the Manfrotto.
I purchased the 454 about a year ago and there is no noticeable wobble. I think they must have re-designed the 454 recently because the reviews that mention wobble all seem to be fairly old. I also us mine for panoramas as a nodal slide to center the lens' nodal point over the rotation axis. Also useful for determining the nodal point of a lens.
Many thanks to Allan and Jack for the feedback. My unit arrived today and there is no play at all that I can determine, certainly not like the amount visible in another RUclips video review. Fit and finish seem top notch and for once the included instructions are understandable. I am very pleased.
I bought both of my stackshots on the used market, eBay actually, here in the US. I feel pretty sure that Cognisys would ship internationally, but the way your import duty is set up and can understand why you wouldn't want to do that. Have you tried contacting Cognisys to ask about a UK distribution network - I know they have one on the continent. There is one other option - if you don't have any luck ping me on the email at contact@allanwallsphotography.com and I'll do what I can to help.
So in going through my old Nikon gear, dating back to the early 1970s, I discovered a Nikon Bellows unit PB-4, originally part of a slide copying set up. For macro work, is there any functional difference between the PB-6 and the PB-4?
Hi Hunter, Cognisys actually makes a tripod/field accessory kit for the Stackshot. It consists of a QR plate for the base of the rail, a battery pack to run the rail, and a clamp setup for the controller. I built my own, for a fraction of the cost, but never use it. I am not a big fan of focus stacking in the field - it is a cumbersome way to shoot and I prefer to travel light. All the parts can be found here... cognisys-inc.com/focus-stacking/accessories.html
I am so glad I have a Nikon Z6 I doubt I would have the patience for doing this manually. The focus shift shooting works just fine once you get a handle on the shift setting to use. It does not tell you the actual shift distance per step in the camera. I found an analysis by Jim Kasson for the Z7( blog.kasson.com/nikon-z6-7/calculating-the-nikon-z7-fss-step-size/ ) which seens to be pretty accurate for the Z6 too.
@@AllanWallsPhotography Yes, I tried playing with it. I need to perfect my skill as some of my manual steps were a little too long leaving blurry spots.
Hi Pepe - sorry for the late reply - I missed this comment completely. I have been using Zerene Stacker for some years now. The newly released version is superb!
As awesome as that Stackshot looks, it seems like it would be too heavy to take out in the field. Once you have your camera, lenses, tripod and everything else, adding a whole other television worth of weight seems like too much. I can't hike around an old growth forest all day with all that strapped to my back. Seems like it would be more for in-studio work, yeah?
Reminds me of an exhibition I went to a couple of years ago - microsculpture.net/ - it was quite mindblowing to see insects in 2m size and put together from many thousands of images.
Please put me down as one interested in your handmade slider project video. I enjoy building your projects such as the light cage for one. I did build the cage and it is an excellent project for the handy person. I built mine over a single weekend. The time it took to build it was mostly spent sourcing and purchasing the items I didn't already have. So, with that said thanks for all you have done to ignite in me the spark of fun and enjoyment you have given me. I have my orange and onion ready to go!
Thanks so much, Sir Allen:)
Thanks Don. I'm at a point with the slider that I can go back to the beginning and build a video around the whole project. Thanks for letting me know!
I really appreciate the wealth of your macro photography knowledge. Thank you for sharing. Macro is something that can help us get through the Coronovirus threat
Hi Patrick... I had the same thought this morning. I have plenty to keep me busy in the macro world! Stay safe!
Absolutely!
I came back to this video after your 2 "Going Deep" videos. I won´t go into "Going Deep" before I have the focus rail clear. We´ll see! Thanks for your videos.
Hi Allan, I agree totally with you about the Cognisys rail which I have used for a couple of years now.
When I first started stacking images of Bryophytes I saw a rig that Des Callaghan in the UK had put together where he had linked the fine focus knob on a microscope to some gears and a motor.This produced excellent results. I am not an engineer and had no idea how to do what Des did.
Just recently I discovered that Wemacro are actually marketing a stacking device which does exactly what Des did some years back.
I now have one and have used it quite a few times. It is very impressive and easy to use. The. bluetooth software is free and very easy to use. It works on a phone, pad or laptop, including Macs. I have since purchased one of their rails to try. The Wemacro product quality seems very good and their prices are more competitive than Cognisys.
I continue to use my Cognisys but am looking forward ti trying the Wemacro when I have gathered all the bits and pieces you have recommended together. Barry
Great Series Allan! Re: your comments on the WeMacro rail - while it does have facility to to use Bluetooth via your phone (& my experience is it works 100% of the time) - you haven't mentioned that it also uses a cable direct to to PC/camera as a standard option as well. So compared to the likes of the expensive Stackshot, I found the WeMacro to be a great piece of kit that does a superb job...
Thanks Allan. A very interesting and informative video.
Very helpful video, and I appreciate your attention to price. It’s an important factor for most of us.
Thank you Alan. I love your videos. Your open and relaxed technique makes it easy to learn. You share your extensive knowledge and experience so very clearly. Well done. I have a slider that I have fitted a stepper motor to it. I asked the local high school robotics club to write some Arduino code for me but after 2 years waiting I am going to have to do it myself. I have purchased kit and am up to learning to write the code and build the controller. Please share your project with us. I am particularly interested in the code and circuit. If I can get up and going am happy to share any experiences. From lock down here “Down Under” in Adelaide South Australia a big thank you for what you do.
Hi Allan
I am learning so much from your videos. I would like to see videos on your motorized slider project. Thank you so much for the effort you put into your videos.
That has been on the back burner, but I will be getting bak to that project this month! Thanks for your patience!
Another informative video Allan. Great work mate. Can't wait to see your slider video. Greg.
Hey Greg - it's turning into a big messy project - but should be fun anyway!
@@AllanWallsPhotography Allan, I posted a DIY macro slider video on your Community page. It's worth taking a look at. If nothing else, it's a new perspective on how others have created one for their requirements.
Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us!
I very much enjoy your videos so very much. I'm fairly new to macro and despite watching most of your videos I have not heard you mention the best way to securely mount the rail so it is solid yet portable. In your lighting cage DYI video you did show a block of wood but I wasn't sure how the rail is attached or, for that matter, if that is the best approach for rail mounting. You seem to be very busy and must spend countless hours answering questions and I am sure all your comments and responses to your views are appreciated. If there is a way to address this rail mounting question, it would be deeply appreciated as well. Best and thanks again for your time and effort in providing such useful & informative content.
Thank you very much for your efforts to convey this useful information
Thanks so much for this content. I am in the process of deciding on a Focus Rail for my macro set up. I'm shooting the Canon sR5 with the Canon 65MPE lens. Your content is fun and useful. I've pretty much decided on the Manfrotto rail but the motorized rail intrigues me.
You will eventually want to get a motorized rail, both for accuracy of steps and ease of use. I am doing a low cost DIY build this spring as part of a new DIY series I am working on. Should be interesting!
Any recommendations for the motorized rails ?
@@PimentelPortfolio The gold standard is Stackshot by Cognisys, but they are expensive. A couple of Chinese outfits are competing at a lower price but there is a lot to consider when buying a precision instrument (like product support and warrantees). I have made a few over the years, and they are not that difficult to build - you just need a high quality linear actuator, but you need to have a controller/interface and that is where Stackshot shines. There are plenty of others but Stackshot, WeMacro and MJKZZ are the three you will probably want to look at. Unless you are a billionaire... if you are, then you should look at the Novoflex as well. Most serious macro folks end up with a Stackshot eventually (no data on that).
I very much appreciate some honest criticism. It helps me better evaluate products. Thank you Allan.
An orange and an onion... I can do that. Thank God you did not ask me to buy a roll of toilet paper and a bottle of hand sanitizer. I appreciate the advice on the focus rail. I bought a cheap Neewer rail for the macro cage project, which works fine, but I have noticed exactly the points you brought up about the creep that can happen when trying to make very small adjustments. I will keep the Manfrotto 454 in mind. It is sitting in my Amazon cart now, so I will look at it there so I can hit "buy now" as soon as I get frustrated with the rail I have again. As always, your videos are enjoyable and helpful. Stay healthy my friend. Also, I would love to see the video explaining how to motorize a rail. That would be interesting.
I just started looking into macro photography and this has very informative. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Thank you, Luís!
Good information per usual Allan. I use a Wemacro rail cabled to my laptop. The Bluetooth allows use in the field with the battery pack if you don't want to bring a laptop.
Thanks Alan. Several people have corrected me on the connection options with your device. I have already recorded a correction, in the next video. I need to get one and give it a good going over. Everyone that I know who has one, loves it. Thanks again!
Excellent videos as always Allan,
While the Stackshot is the Rolls-Royce for focus stacking, so far I've been using Helicon Remote on a tablet WIFI to my Canon 80D with good success in the field. While I haven't figured out the the actual unit distance of the focusing ring (automated by Helicon Remote), I can calibrate it with the software and if necessary double the number of increments to ensure no slice if missing during stacking with Zerene Stacker - my go-to stacking software. Seeds, flowers, etc... down to 1-2 mm stack well with up to 150 frames, possibly more. Will look at Stackshot sometime in the future. Looking forward to your future videos!
Thanks David... It's one of the things I really love about macro photography - there are so many creative ways to skin a macro cat (what a disgusting thought!). When I first started I had a cheap helicoid that I operated manually, and I got great results. The expensive gear just makes it more efficient and less labor intensive - not necessarily better!
Hi Allan I have been using the cognysis stack shot at my work and can say that it is working superb. I have used it where i had to take up to 150-200 photos, and then stacked them with Helicon focus ;o))
Hi Johnn, yes. The Stackshot is a beautifully engineered piece of gear - love it!
Thanks Allan for sharing your knowledge and your video's, btw the automated rail of wemacro has also software for an computer and it is simple and it works fine. greetings from Holland
Thanks Bert - I had heard about that - I need to get my hands on one of these rails for a test drive!
Thanks for the video Allan. I have changed my mind on which macro rail to purchase over 100 times. About 10 of those have been for the manfrotto you mentioned. I was looking at a few other nore expensive options but the manfrotto seems to be a good option for the price. Especially if I don't really get into macro photography. Thanks for your insight. I subscribed to your channel and I look forward to learning more from you. Make it a great day.
Another excellent and informative video. Thanks Allan!
Thanks Robbie!
I've had my StackShot for about 7 years now. You are right, I paid too much for it, but it sure is nice. I need to get the Arcaswiss adapter for it though. It is a pain having to screw the camera down every time you use it.
I also use HeliconRemote sometimes for focus stacking. It will change the focus ring on your camera without having to touch the camera.
Thanks again Allan, I sure do enjoy your videos.
Had the same experience as David Tyler; using a Canon d550 with the 100 mm macro (i have the “cheap” one, not the “red” one) Helicon can control the focus and do a stack for you. Probably all Canon DSLRS will work. Have no experience with Nikon cameras, but Helicon lists them too as compatible.Ron Hart
Thanks David! I would get frustrated in a hurry if I didn't have the RSS quick release for mounting the camera. There are plenty of far less expensive QR plates out there. I use this $14 Andoer QR plate. It works perfectly well. www.amazon.com/Andoer®-Release-Adapter-Compatible-Manfrotto/dp/B016D6AM16/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=quick+release+plate&qid=1584558318&sr=8-9
Very interested in your rail project Allan. I'm just about to start one myself. Great video. The first rail you demonstrated is really better used to align the camera for panorama's. I use the bellows.
Thanks Steve, I'll be getting to that this week.
Thanks Allan, i like your channel, you talk about practical things in photography without selling something, like the others :) good job ! :)
Thank you! I appreciate that!
Thanks for a good review. My first rail I bought was the Manfrotto rail, hated it. Every lock down (brass knob) resulted in serious movement. I eventually bought a china version from Ali Express, love it. I have been thinking of selling my Italian engineered Manfrotto but after your review I will give it another bash as I could have been using it wrong LOL.
Hi Do you have the link/model number for the rail you bought from ALiExpress ? Thanks
@@me4jas Hi. The "Brand" I got was "Shoot". Most of the China Focus rails are the same, they just put another brand on it. The current brand that is the same as mine is the RYH 4 way focus rail. Does not break the bank and I use mine a lot.
@@masterwizard2881 Thanks for replying. I just googled and yes you are right. Most of the product images seems same but brand name is different. I will try one of those. Thanks again.
I use an Edelkrone SliderONE v2 for automated focus stacking. It's meant to be a slider and used for video/timelapse but you can set it to automatically take a certain number of shots over a very small distance and it works well. You set the shot up with a phone/ipad but it's not needed during the shooting.
Hi Alan, Just seen your video. I bought a cheapo rail like your Option 2 and yes, it works, but not accurately enough for close to, or greater than 1:1 macro. I also bought a Manfrotto 454 rail and I agree that is so much better but I found a lot of backlash in the screw thread and the platform was not rigid enough - it tended to move around sideways - or juddered. I then bought a WE MACRO rail and that is excellent. Once set-up, I have never had any problem with the phone/bluetooth connection. The whole rail and motor assy. is rigid and there is little or no sideway movement. Setting up a whole series of step focus shots is easy - I expect it to be much the same as the Cognisys. Fore/aft movement as little as 0.002 mm is claimed. I use it for 5:1 Macro shots. Stephen.
Hi Stephen, you are absolutely correct - manual rails, even the best of them, are no match for the well engineered automated rails. But they are really different tools. The manual rails, even given their tendency for backlash, are perfectly good for low magnification applications. I use a manual rail frequently, even though I have several automated systems in the studio. But for short steps, nothing beats a good rail like the WeMacro.
For what it's worth, I just bought a SWEBO LS-001, Lead Screw Macro Focusing, Accuracy 0.01 mm
by SWEBO and it is terrific!! The price is way high at $179 but maybe that is deserved. I have not compared it with any other manual sliders.
Would love to see the build!
Great, Alan.
I’ve had no complaints with the Stack Shot. Been using for about 10 years, with just one minor issue...just recently in fact. Had to replace the cable that controls the motor, but that’s it. The controller is a bit dated and probably could be improved but as for functionally, it’s perfectly fine. With Zerene Stacker, a simple interface program makes the combination well worth the investment. The Manfrotto is a great bang for the buck...I used it prior to the Shot Shot.
Amazing review. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge
I'd like to see the full build of a focusing rail. What are you planning to do with the box of parts you have? Also, what about the concerns about changing the distance from the focal plane of the camera (sensor) to subject? Doesn't that change the size of the image projected onto the sensor? Would that affect the focus stacking process? Also, i understand that the Nikon D850 has built-in focus stacking.
Really nice video again, Allan. Thanks, Scott
Bluetooth on the WeMacro works reliably, but that's not the only option. You can direct connect to a computer or portable device (via USB To Go). Helicon remote can also control WeMacro. There's no way I could rationalize the price of a Stackshot.
And love the videos Alan! Thanks so much!
Great video. I ended up going for a Velbon Super Mag Slider instead of the Manfrotto. It's a bit more expensive, but also feels easier to control than the Manfrotto.
Hi, it is another very good rail, for sure. There are actually quite a few precise and affordable rails out there - I went with the Manfrotto because of the relatively affordable price point. Truth is, with patience, we can make almost anything work for most typical situations.
Sticking with Nikon, a better, and less expensive alternative to the PB-6 bellows is Nikon's PG-2 focusing rail. Like the bellows, beautifully engineered.
Lookinf forward to se the rail projekt ;o))
Thanks Johnn... won't be long!
They also have a Mac interface with Ethernet cable fo WeMacro. It works well and is simple. I am very pleased with mine and recommend it heartily. It connected to my iMac without having to download drivers
Hi Jim. I discovered that fact after releasing the video - and it is an important point. I will mention this in the next macro video. I am also going to order one of these rails myself, so that I can have first hand experience for future discussions. Thanks for bringing this to everyone's attention!
Thanks Alan, so busy providing info forgot to thumbs up it and say great video again! Done now!
Hi Allan Just wondering where you get the pin grabber from ? Really enjoying the videos , and am due to start a Light cage for macro but I feel i might see if it can be done to accommodate a water dropper too or I could build a smaller one for that . Keep up the good work :-)
Hi Michael, sorry for the late response - way behind on email! If you go to my last video, right here, ruclips.net/video/tqbUinSaLls/видео.html
you will find a link in the show notes - that'll take you right to the pin grabber. Thanks!
This is very helpful! I'm surprised you didn't cover many of the dual-axis sliders that are on sale everywhere... (velben, oben) as examples on B&H. The comments seem to indicate that they use plastic interior parts even though they are advertised as aluminum construction.
Hey everyone! In this video I made a pretty dismissive remark about the MJKZZ focusing rail. Since then, I have spent some time with the rail, and in conversations with a couple of viewers who are using it. It is actually a very solid, high performance, easy to use macro focusing rail. I may do a full review video at some point, but for now, if you were discouraged from investing in one of these rails because of anything I said, please don't be. It looks like a very smart buy. Anyone interested in a slightly used StackShot?
A review would be appreciated. Any piece of knowledge is highly valued, thank you for all your highly detailed videos
I don't think your comment was dismissive. You just indicated your opinion of the name. I agree with you about the name. Perhaps it is an acronym? Maybe the initials of the founders of the company? Either way, it didn't come across as indicating a poorly designed product. A high quality product is a high quality product no matter what its name. oh yes, I'd like to see your review if you choose to do one. I too find your videos enjoyably informative.
@@johnwolf1951 Thanks! I am not having much luck with orders from the East - waiting on a couple of adapters from 4 months back - so I will wait for things to calm down before I order the rail. I'm looking forward to giving it a try!
Why are you selling the StackShot and how much? :)
@@kevintewksbury5670 Hi Kevin, I was just kidding to emphasize what a solid piece of the kit the MKJZZ rail seems to be. Even though the competition is heating up, the StackShot still reigns supreme and is central to my extreme macro workflow. I wish you luck finding one - they seem to be showing up less and less on the used market, and the used prices are pretty close to the new purchase prices from Cognisys.
The wemacro doesnt rely solely on phone/bluetooth connectivity. I've used mine daily for several months with PC control and zero issues. It's also accurate to a couple microns(maybe one cant recall the exact spec) performance is flawless in my experience for about $350 US shipped.
Thanks Matt! I need to revise this video. I have since worked with the WeMacro and it is a very good product.
@@AllanWallsPhotography keep up the good work sir! It was quite the treat to discover your old dog new tricks account! I had no idea you were a coil builder as well!
@@keymaker_coils686 Hahaha.. yes indeed! A very satisfying hobby!
I also bit the bullet and got a stackshot.........it may cost more than I wanted to pay but my stacks range from 60+ to 350+ shots and there was no way in hell I was going to sit and manually turn that F*
Hi Terry, The deepest stack I have attempted manually, using a micrometer rail, was 211. It took me hours to shoot and it turned out quite well. But what an inefficient way to manage my time! I am very glad to have the Stackshot, but for those who just can't justify the cost, it can be done manually. I wish they wouldn't gouge customers by using an unnecessary proprietary shutter release cable.
Hello Allen. As you know I have the Mkjzz rail. The rail come complete, you put the top on. Cost USD $275.00 Putting it together is a breeze. I have yet to figure out how to use it. A "me" issue. It comes with a holding stand.The cables are made for your camera brand. The program (instructions,which I printed off and carry with the rail) it uses is downloaded from the net. I can use either my laptop or my phone to run it BUT I need different cables. The adjustments can be set really small and it is a well built unit. YES, waiting on parts is an issue even before the virus crisis. I have been waiting for months for spare parts, read I don't need theses to work,I lose things like small screws.Also the phone set up is an "extra" and that is "someplace". Great advise, thank you for sharing. Please build the slider. The country is in lock down so going out is NOT an option for the next 2 weeks.
My Mkjzz rail was not so clean, there will be a lot of play on the bearings. I replaced it and now it is fine! A lot of work and figuring out what to order.
Hey Dave. I should have spoken to you before making this video. I was under the impression that there was quite a bit more to the construction of the rail. I am still reluctant to rely on Chinese exporters for tech. I have now got 6 separate orders for inexpensive adapters, and assorted parts, that are all more than 2 months overdue. And like you say, it was like this long before our current troubles. I wish I had learned how to work with metal, or had a 3D printer - I could make almost everything I need. Is the user manual for your rail available online? I'll try to track it down - I would learn a lot from that. Thanks again for the great information!
@@AllanWallsPhotography Rail software: MJKZZ.com. Open" Support" folder. Under Extreme Macro Stackrail V2 Control Software. Hope this helps.
Thank you for your video its good to get some help I am kinda new to this so have one of those cheap focus rails but wonder how good the Sunwayfoto MFR-150 is thanks :-)
Hi Angela, I actually like the MFR-150. It is relatively inexpensive, but well engineered with pretty decent tolerances. It has a little more backlash than I would like, and screw thread is slightly courser than more expensive rails. If you follow one rule, you should be able to get fantastic results with this device - never reverse the direction of the rail once you start shooting your stack. If you do that, backlash will not come into play. I removed the adjustment handle on my MFR-150 and replaced it with a much larger ring (a repurposed nylon gear wheel), and I was very happy with accuracy and usability of the rail. But even without that, this is a solid device that will serve you well!
@@AllanWallsPhotography thank for that I might look into the Manfrotto one now and I have just subscribed to you now so hopefully I can get macro help :-)
Drooling over the Rolly!
Thanks for sharing
I Have wemacro, i love it... Simple to use, i purely use Bluetooth/phone for it. one time i had weird problem. I used start-end mode it went backward all the way, didn't stopped programmed start position 🙈
Excellent review! Thanks for taking the time to educate others. The Manfrotto 454 seems like a great way to go for a first step into the macro world. Am I correct that one CAN mount the 454 on a quick release plate for either a ball head or a pan & tilt head, but that the attachment of the 454 to a camera CANNOT be by means of a quick release plate? If both of the above are correct, that's fine. I want to be able to mount the 454 on a moveable tripod head, not on the top plate of the tripod itself.
Hi Scott, the 454 can be mounted on a QR plate so it can easily be used on any tripod head. You don't have to use a QR plate on top of the rail - you can attach the camera directly. But I use a another QR plate on top of the rail so that I can easily remove or reposition my camera without a screwdriver. If you shoot me an email (contact@allanwallsphotography.com), I will send you a couple of pictures showing how I use the 454 for maximum versatility.
Go for a NiSi Macro Focusing Rail NM-180 if you were going to get something today 👍
The Nisi is sold under several different names in different markets and at differing prices.
I really like you how you explain,criticize and joke.But above all how you explain. Yes I'm one of those who which to watch the video. I have send you a video on your personal Fb. \Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Mario! I'll check it out.
Thank You for the great review!
I've just found your excellent video at the right time. I am hoping to convert a manual rail using a stepper motor, easydriver board and an Arduino.I am considering the ABKT-MFR4-5 Macro Focusing Rail 4-Way Macro Slide which I think is similar to the Oban design, do you think this would suitable rail to convert
Best regards
Martin
Amazing review Allan. Love how you provide insights from your experience. I was wondering if you have changed your mind since this video, epsecially with you being so impressed with the NiSi rail?
I have changed my opinion. It isn't that unusual, with the bar being constantly raised by competing manufacturers. I look at a lot more equipment than I review - it doesn't seem very helpful to review stuff that I would never buy myself - you have to kiss a lot of frogs! But the NiSi rail really is a better tool that the 454, in my opinion, even though there isn't a lot in it. They are both very nice rails.
@@AllanWallsPhotography sorry I meant to ask if you have updated it based on your new review. I just wanted to ask you if you would recommend the NiSi over the Manfrotto given your recently reviewed it. I have been looking for sliders in that price range and came upon the NiSi and am glad that you had reviewed it. You review answered all the questions I had and then some. Thanks again Allan.
@@TheRameshkumarm Haha - that's what I was meaning to say - doing this review was what convinced me that the NiSi was the better product for precision manual stacking. I think you will agree!
My Fuji cameras can focus bracket on their own. You can set 100:exposures, and it I’ll take 100 shots and adjust the focus automatically. Thoughts on using that?
Hi Allan I love your instructive site. I was looking at your suggestions for simple stacking rails. I started off with a 'proxxon 27100 micro compound table kt 70' which has a fine scale of 0.05mm, It costs abut $75 from Amazon. It's superior to the Manfrotto and gives movement in 2 planes, X&Y and cost about the same.
Interesting option. Do you mind if I ask how you attached the camera?
@@davidf6326 Hi David, I just connected a small ball and socket head to the rail after finding screws which would fit.
@@bobsmith2243 Hi Bob. Thanks for the advice. I'll have to look into doing similar, because the reviews are very mixed on actual macro rails in that price range and for the amount of macro work I do, I can't really justify the expense of a Kirk or RRS one :-(
@@davidf6326 I seem to remember I searched my junk box and found something with a 1/4 inch screw and it had a flat plate on the end which I cut down to fit the slots on the Proxon. I mounted the rail on a ply wood disc which was then stuck on to a couple of 2 kg weightlifting weights using Araldite.
@@bobsmith2243 Thanks again, Bob. Food for thought
As you are my source of macro wisdom... New to macro. Looking at Novoflex. I use a Sony 6100 E-Mount. How important is the swing/tilt on this format? I have never seen you use or refer to swing/tilt, that alone gives me pause. In the face of a $1800.00 spend. They offer without the tilt/shift at $999.00 ...
Worth it or pass?
Hey Joe - great question! The only reason I haven't talked much about the tilt-shift-swing capabilities of the Novoflex (or the Nikon PB-4 bellows, for that matter) is that I don't own the equipment. I would love to have a rail or bellows setup that would allow me to use perspective correction - it is a very powerful tool and great fun to use. If I could afford one I would most assuredly have it in my studio. The same goes for a tilt-shift wide-angle macro lens. I am going to try to borrow or rent one of these devices to do a couple of tutorials in the new year. As for your question, if you can afford it, go for it - you will be glad to have it (and then you can rent it to me for a weekend! Win-win-win!)
As an amateur I appreciate your being practical about cost. I don't want to waste money on junk but a rail setup that approaches a good lens in cost is a bit much for me. The 454 is about where I get comfortable. In another review it was noted there was what looked like a lot of "wobble" between the rail and the adjusting assembly (front to back). Since I would be shooting with a remote shutter release I would imagine this would not be a major problem. Did you find the wobble getting in your way with the Manfrotto?
Hi Rich, I must say I have never experienced the wobble you describe. Unless the reviewer was talking about backlash. It does have a little backlash (play before the screw engages), but all rails do. As long as you are moving in one direction it should make no difference. I love that rail and, for the money, it is my favorite manual rail, by far. Go for it!
@@AllanWallsPhotography Alan, thanks for the quick response. I figure if the play is excessive I could add some UHMW tape between the rail and the adjusting assembly. I was about to spring for the Hoage MFR-180 but your review convinced me to go for the Manfrotto.
@@RichPurdum That is definitely the right choice. The MFR-180 that I tested had a lot of play and some side-to-side wobble.
I purchased the 454 about a year ago and there is no noticeable wobble. I think they must have re-designed the 454 recently because the reviews that mention wobble all seem to be fairly old. I also us mine for panoramas as a nodal slide to center the lens' nodal point over the rotation axis. Also useful for determining the nodal point of a lens.
Many thanks to Allan and Jack for the feedback. My unit arrived today and there is no play at all that I can determine, certainly not like the amount visible in another RUclips video review. Fit and finish seem top notch and for once the included instructions are understandable. I am very pleased.
Thank you.....great review.
Thanks Tony!
Hi Allan may i ask where you ordered you stackshot from? I'm having trouble finding a supplier in the uk.
I bought both of my stackshots on the used market, eBay actually, here in the US. I feel pretty sure that Cognisys would ship internationally, but the way your import duty is set up and can understand why you wouldn't want to do that. Have you tried contacting Cognisys to ask about a UK distribution network - I know they have one on the continent. There is one other option - if you don't have any luck ping me on the email at contact@allanwallsphotography.com and I'll do what I can to help.
Thank you for review
Thank you! 👍
So in going through my old Nikon gear, dating back to the early 1970s, I discovered a Nikon Bellows unit PB-4, originally part of a slide copying set up. For macro work, is there any functional difference between the PB-6 and the PB-4?
Hi Jeffrey. Not really. The PB-4 is a solid bellows. I certainly wouldn't upgrade to the PB-6 if I already had a -4. Good luck!
@@AllanWallsPhotography Thanks; appreciate the quick response.
Hi allan! could you recommend which attachments ill need to use stackshot on a
tripod? THANK YOU!!!!
Hi Hunter, Cognisys actually makes a tripod/field accessory kit for the Stackshot. It consists of a QR plate for the base of the rail, a battery pack to run the rail, and a clamp setup for the controller. I built my own, for a fraction of the cost, but never use it. I am not a big fan of focus stacking in the field - it is a cumbersome way to shoot and I prefer to travel light. All the parts can be found here... cognisys-inc.com/focus-stacking/accessories.html
I am so glad I have a Nikon Z6 I doubt I would have the patience for doing this manually. The focus shift shooting works just fine once you get a handle on the shift setting to use. It does not tell you the actual shift distance per step in the camera. I found an analysis by Jim Kasson for the Z7( blog.kasson.com/nikon-z6-7/calculating-the-nikon-z7-fss-step-size/ ) which seens to be pretty accurate for the Z6 too.
Great video thanks
I have the PB-6. Got a mint one on eBay
Hi Lysander, have you tried focus stacking using just the bellows rail?
@@AllanWallsPhotography Yes, I tried playing with it. I need to perfect my skill as some of my manual steps were a little too long leaving blurry spots.
The WeMacro has been independently tested to be MORE accurate than the Stackshot!
You need to be a photography teacher. So good
Thank you!
thank u
Thanks for watching!
Allan; what software do you use for stacking?
Hi Pepe - sorry for the late reply - I missed this comment completely. I have been using Zerene Stacker for some years now. The newly released version is superb!
As awesome as that Stackshot looks, it seems like it would be too heavy to take out in the field.
Once you have your camera, lenses, tripod and everything else, adding a whole other television worth of weight seems like too much.
I can't hike around an old growth forest all day with all that strapped to my back. Seems like it would be more for in-studio work, yeah?
I use my timelapse rail, it's long but I can take pictures like 400 of a centimeter.
Which one do you use?
@@shaon_rahman_khan diy , chronos project thechronosproject.com/
Sorry , The title said selecting the right focus rail and here we are again going off on not the title of the video. Very frustrating .
Reminds me of an exhibition I went to a couple of years ago - microsculpture.net/ - it was quite mindblowing to see insects in 2m size and put together from many thousands of images.
If you have to ask why the Manfrotto 454 is the best option... you are streets behind.
I use this diy controller.
thechronosproject.com/
It's not too hard to build. And it will work with any rail plus stepper motor.
Ibought 454 after watching this video
Cool! I hope you like it. I've been very happy with mine.