I haven't done an entire image that way but I've used that method to patch up areas that didn't turn out well using automated software. I think there can be a certain satisfaction from doing something like that now and then, and it can be fun. I also get some satisfaction from getting it done with with free software. I use Microsoft ice and gimp for that sort of work.

As BSH123 says, I use this technique to add photos to the larger rendered panorama image that went through my pano program. It happens virtually every single time that a few photos didn't line up and need to be added. If there's more than one, I'll usually merge them together then take that multiple image blend and then blend it to the larger whole.

Avaviel, it does feel like a project that is more mine than a straight shot from the camera. Although, I have to say, I wouldn't mind if once in a while I could just shoot one shot and be on my way. I guess that's what the $25,000. medium format cameras are for. :-)

Ugh, I would have given up and Gaussian blurred the heck out of that background and stitched just the face by hand, that background could be a technically difficult thing to stitch by hand, especially if there are odd sticks and leaves with unmatching ends!

The background is the easy part! or limbs I've cut up pieces and make them like a puzzle. But, this stuff is old hat to me now, so I try to make it harder each time.

This one is mostly manually stitched:


Photoshop deals with the out of focus areas easier than the person with stitching.