Software designed for macOS that merges multiple photographs of the same subject, each with a slightly different focus point, into a single image with increased depth of field. This technique is particularly useful in situations where achieving sufficient depth of field with a single exposure is challenging, such as macro photography or landscape photography. The programs analyze the sharpest regions of each source image and combine them to produce a final image that is sharp throughout the entire subject.
The principal benefit of this methodology is the creation of images with extensive sharpness, overcoming limitations imposed by lens aperture and diffraction. Historically, achieving such results required specialized equipment or laborious manual techniques. Current software streamlines the process, allowing for complex tasks to be completed efficiently. This leads to enhanced image quality, especially noticeable when producing prints or displaying images at high resolutions. It enables photographers to capture intricate details with clarity that would otherwise be impossible.