We can create a type of "impossible" focus shot using just two photos. Similar to the macro shot focus stacking we did earlier, but this time using the two ideal frames and a simple matte.

Far Focus

The first frame captures Lars in focus at the back of the totally not creepy abandoned warehouse.

Near Focus

The second frame we'll use has Slappy in focus and Lars out of focus.

Matte

We'll use a matte (also called a mask or alpha channel) to composite the two images. In this matte, the white pixels represent full opacity of the top layer (Slappy in focus). The black pixels represent full transparency of the top layer, allowing the bottom layer (Lars in focus) to be seen.

Different image editing software will vary as far as the specifics, but the principle of compositing layers with a matte/mask/alpha channel will still apply.

You can see an example in Photoshop here.