There are two types of image stacking methods that are popular today. "Focus stacking" is used to extend the depth of field. Whereas "exposure stacking" can be used to extend the apparent exposure time. This post is intended to be a quick introduction to the latter.

Note: Some would say there is a third type called "action sequencing" but we consider that to be somewhat distinct from focus and exposure stacking. At least for our purposes. 

When to use exposure stacking

This image, made in 2016 at Point Lobos, is from our Still Motion project. The exposure was approximately 2 minutes in the middle of the afternoon through filtered sunlight. What caught our attention was the way the surf was breaking, filling and swirling into the gap in these rocks in the mid intertidal zone. The goal being to represent all that motion in a still image rather than a video or time-lapse.

We are please to announce the Aiello Studios' Photographic Expeditionary Group and you are invited to participate! The expeditions will essentially be meet-ups at various locations throughout the West that we wish to photograph. The concept is very simple. If you would like to photograph any of the same areas and are available you are invited to join us.

This image is of traffic at the corner of J and 21st Streets in Sacramento, CA. It was made by compositing 200 images from a longer time-lapse sequence. We will be providing a tutorial on the technique soon. Sign-up for our mail list to stay tuned.