Focus stacking with running watches

Just started messing with focus stacking. I ended up with this shot using CS5. Photomerge>>>Auto-Blend Layers>>>>Stacking

Not sure what to do about the hands? If there isn't a simple solution, stopping the watch is not a problem for me since my trade is watch repair.

I believe most watch photos are with the hands frozen in the 10 minutes to 2 (1:50) positions.

Very nice photo, btw.

lvph2 wrote in post #18297527
Not sure what to do about the hands? If there isn't a simple solution, stopping the watch is not a problem for me since my trade is watch repair.

Stopping the watch would be the simple solution. For me, I'd use a Layer Mask in PS to hide the extra hands.

There are simple solutions with other software where it is easy to not use parts of particular shots and you can double up on shots, but I don't think so with CS6.

I collect vintage watches, so this immediately caught my attention. As others have mentioned, stop the watch and have the hands at 10 to 2, so they are not obscuring any writing. On some watches you may need to move the hands to a different position, depending on the design of the dial. You would generally want to avoid having that minute hand covering the subdial. Certain watches with several complications, such as a triple date chronograph can be fiddly to find the right positions.

Yeah I see the 10 & 2 in plenty of watch catalogs. I'll have to start shooting more of what comes through my shop. Also, I've been wanting to get some before and after shots of some of the really bad stuff I get in too!! Should be fun.

Slightly off topic, but I know it's always really nice when a watchmaker sends a picture of the movement after it's been serviced that shows everything in perfect condition. This is especially appreciated on older vintage pieces with beautiful movements that we never normally see.

There is another Watch Photography thread that perhaps you would like to take a look at for inspiration.