Following up on previous blog on macrophotography is a logical one with a focusing rail.
A focusing rail is essentially an item mounted to the top of the tripod, the better ones replace the ball head on the tripod and provide a very solid mount with tiny incremental adjustments in typically two directions (some do three directions).
There are several on the market ranging from a very low prices of maybe $30 or $40 to several hundred dollars, and some even with electronic control on precise movement!
Well unless you are running a laboratory you don’t need electronic movement, so forget that one.
The lower priced ones are typically a bit more flimsy and not good choice for heavier loads. So I would not recommend the lower priced ones as if you don’t have a heavy lens now you may in future. I wanted one that would easily accommodate my 200mm lens and camera body.
So, after careful consideration I selected the Oben MFR4-5, a light weight (1.3 lbs aluminum) rail with 4 way adjustments designed for macrophotography. This provides 2.75 inches front to back and 1.25 inches left to right movement. These are adjusted by dual level adjustment knobs which allows very small precise adjustments. There is an Arca-type quite release clamp and plate included.
The actual rail attaches to the top of the tripod using either 1/4″-20 or 3/8″-16 threads.
The biggest challenge once you have set it up (which is actually quite easy once you have done the first time), is the software part in focus stacking later. Regardless of which you buy, ensure it is able to manage the weight of your gear now and in future, allows very minute and precise adjustments and can be easily mounted on top of your tripod (ensure you have a beefy and secure tripod as well). Oh and don’t forget to mount your system on the lens mount (with longer lenses) and not the camera mount! Enjoy.. take lots of photos.. focus stack in software and yes enjoy.