Best Focus Stacking Software

Focus stacking is a powerful technique that allows photographers to create images with incredible depth of field by combining multiple shots taken at different focal distances. Whether you’re shooting macro photography, landscapes, or product photos, using the best focus stacking software can elevate your image quality and bring out stunning detail that would otherwise be impossible in a single shot.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top focus stacking tools available today, their features, pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What Is Focus Stacking?

Focus stacking is the process of merging multiple images of the same scene, each captured with a different focus point, into one perfectly sharp composite. This is especially useful in scenarios where the depth of field is too shallow to capture the entire subject in focus.

Photographers often use this technique in:

• Macro photography (e.g., insects, flowers)
• Landscape photography (sharp foreground and background)
• Product and still life photography

While you can perform basic focus stacking manually in photo editing software, using dedicated focus stacking software streamlines the process and delivers higher-quality results.

Best Focus Stacking Software

Here are the leading options for focus stacking in 2025, each selected for performance, ease of use, and image quality.

1. Helicon Focus

Helicon Focus is widely regarded as one of the best focus stacking software tools available, especially for macro and scientific photography.

Key Features:

• Advanced rendering algorithms (A, B, C methods)
• Batch processing
• RAW support
• Retouching brush for seamless blending
• 3D model generation from stacks

Pros:

• High precision stacking
• Intuitive interface
• Excellent depth map creation

Cons:

• Not free (paid license required)
• Steeper learning curve for beginners

Best For: Professionals and scientific users who need ultra-detailed stacking.

2. Zerene Stacker

Zerene Stacker is another top contender that excels in macro work, especially when image quality and artifact reduction are priorities.

Key Features:

• PMax and DMap rendering modes
• Manual retouching tools
• Handles tiny subjects and challenging textures
• Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)

Pros:

• Exceptional image quality
• Clean blending with low artifacts
• Ideal for fine details like hair or pollen

Cons:

• Less modern UI
• Not free

Best For: Macro photographers seeking clinical precision.

3. Adobe Photoshop

While not dedicated solely to focus stacking, Adobe Photoshop includes a powerful auto-blend feature that works well for basic stacking needs.

Key Features:

• Auto-align and auto-blend layers
• Layer masking for manual adjustments
• Non-destructive workflow
• Integration with Lightroom

Pros:

• Versatile editing suite
• Useful for occasional stacking
• Popular and well-supported

Cons:

• Slower for large stacks
• Requires manual pre-alignment

Best For: Photographers who already use Photoshop and want basic stacking functionality.

4. Affinity Photo

Affinity Photo is a cost-effective alternative to Photoshop that includes focus stacking functionality.

Key Features:

• Automatic stacking and alignment
• Live preview during stack processing
• Professional editing tools

Pros:

• One-time payment (no subscription)
• Great value for money
• Strong support for RAW files

Cons:

• Slower performance with very large stacks
• Limited advanced options

Best For: Budget-conscious creatives looking for Photoshop-like tools.

5. CombineZP (Freeware)

CombineZP is an older but still functional free focus stacking software for Windows users.

Key Features:

• Multiple processing methods
• Image alignment and stacking
• Macro-friendly

Pros:

• Free to use
• Suitable for experimentation

Cons:

• Outdated interface
• Limited support and updates

Best For: Beginners or hobbyists experimenting with stacking.

How to Choose the Best Focus Stacking Software

When choosing the best focus stacking software for your workflow, consider the following factors:

1. Image Quality – Look for software with multiple rendering methods and high blending accuracy.
2. Ease of Use – Choose a tool with an intuitive interface, especially if you’re new to focus stacking.
3. Speed and Performance – Software optimized for batch processing and large file handling can save time.
4. Platform Compatibility – Ensure the software works with your operating system and camera file formats.
5. Budget – Some tools require licenses, while others are one-time purchases or free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best focus stacking software for macro photography?

Helicon Focus and Zerene Stacker are considered the best focus stacking software options for macro photography due to their precision, control, and quality of results.

Can you do focus stacking in Photoshop?

Yes, Adobe Photoshop includes focus stacking features. You can load images into layers, auto-align them, and use the Auto-Blend Layers function to merge them into a sharp composite.

Is there a free focus stacking software?

CombineZP is a free focus stacking software that still works well, especially for beginners. While it lacks modern features, it’s a good starting point.

What software do professional photographers use for focus stacking?

Professional photographers often use Helicon Focus or Zerene Stacker due to their advanced algorithms, retouching capabilities, and consistent high-quality output.

Is focus stacking software available for Mac?

Yes, most leading focus stacking software, including Helicon Focus, Zerene Stacker, Adobe Photoshop, and Affinity Photo, offer macOS versions.

Do I need a tripod for focus stacking?

Yes, a tripod is strongly recommended to ensure each image in the stack is aligned properly. Even small shifts can cause stacking errors.

Can Lightroom do focus stacking?

No, Lightroom does not have native focus stacking capabilities. However, you can export your image sequence to Photoshop from Lightroom and perform the stacking there.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the best focus stacking software can dramatically enhance your photography, especially when dealing with subjects that require extensive depth of field. Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, choosing the right tool will help you produce razor-sharp images that stand out.

This page was last edited on 18 May 2025, at 12:32 pm