photoartflightBlue Dasher – 12 Image Focus Stack
When doing a multi-image focus stack for more depth of field on a dragonfly image, I usually set my f/stop to f/11 or f/16 when using a 300mm f/4 lens with a 1.4x teleconverter. This way I do not need as many shots for the full focus series of images. Many times a dragonfly will fly off or change position before I finish the series for a stack so I cannot use it and have to start over. This dragonfly seemed to be very still & cooperative. So I managed to do a focus stack from head to tail, including wingtip to wingtip. This series was 12 images, shot at f/8 for a smooth clean background. For a focus stack with a large number of images, I also use a tripod. After flattening the layered file, you might have a minor touch up here or there.
photoartflight 
Truly amazing picture, almost like the song “It’s to good to be true…”
Thanks Hans! They are fun to do! Especially when they work out well!
My word is amazing too, Reed, WOW! Well done!! 🤗
Thanks Donna! After you do a few they tend to come out better! You kind of have to balance number of shots with the f/stop. The smaller the f/stop, the fewer images needed. I tend to like f/5.6 or f/8 and have more layers To blend. Photoshop does most of the work!
Great depth front to back, Reed.
Thanks Steve! They are fun to photograph. Especially when they do not move for 12 focus point areas for a focus stack!