Tips by Joe (Proe, Excel...)

Most of us know how to change case before we type a text. But how to change case of a typed text from small-caps, ALL-CAPS, Initial-Caps? It's easy.. * Double tap to select text. Use arrows to expand selection as needed. * Use the ⬆ arrow on the keyboard to cycle through each option. Simple, isn't it.. share if you liked it..

Today morning, my son found a dead bug with bright colors around our home. Suddenly I realized the opportunity for a stacked photo and swung into action. I wanted to do it for a while and this was good chance before the colors go away. below are couple of selected ones.

I tried to do the real stack using the automated setup. Below is the picture of the final image. Because of the shallow depth of field, I had to do a stack of 64 images to cover the scene. This is next to impossible to do manually. To put things in perspective of the magnification, I have added a hair as well in the frame.

As posted last time, I had received the rail. I have it integrated now. Also, i have implemented the camera triggering aspect. I am using opto-isolator for that. I got it all put together. Now I can use it for taking photos as expected. Here are some pictures of the setup.

While I am trying to make the automation to do the focus stacking, it is also important to try out the stacking manually.  Today I did my first ever macro focus stacked image of a flower. Setup: three extension tubes (36mm + 20mm + 12mm = 68mm) and reversed 50mm lens.  This gives a 2:1 macro (double size) image.  Here is the setup and the result.  Its a stack of 10 images done in photoshop.

Hi there, I have an update on the project. I was able to, at last, make everything into a prototype mode. It is working and getting into some shape.

I had ordered some of the necessary elements and have started to do some of the basic stuff with each. I am yet to get the rail itself and it may take some more time. But for the testing I have just connected two wheels to the Stepper Motor. What I have now: 1) Aurdino Uno 2) Stepper Motor 3) LCD Display, 16x4 4) Keypad, 4x4 5) Easydriver for Stepper Motor And accessories like Breadboard, Jumper wires, multimeter..

Recently I came across a post about developing a automated focus stacking . It uses and Arduino based controller at the heart of it.  You can then program the Arduino appropriately. I have had no experience with Arduino. But I have decided to do one myself.  So watch this space for more updates..

Collated this data for my own understanding. Sharing it as others may find it useful. Although care is taken for accuracy, cannot guarantee it and please check yourself before deciding.