Getting Started with Microscopic Photography!
written by 'Michel Charlebois Rehmat'
Photography can very much be a form of art, as well as a way of documenting places, people, and events. And one way that it’s possible to create some very interesting and artistic shots of items to view them in a way they aren’t typically seen is by using a microscope.
When you enlarge things many hundreds of times beyond their normal size, you can capture details and images not normally seen by the human eye. This includes things like snowflakes, pollen, droplets of water, and other small items that completely change their shape and appearance once enlarged.
If you’ve been looking for a way to create some really stunning and unique artistic photographs, consider giving microscopic photography a try.
Getting Started
While the images that this technique produces can be quite stunning, the method of capturing them is actually simple. All you need is a camera, a good light source, and a microscope, along with the item or items you intend to capture.The artistic side of things comes into play when determining what to photograph. Get creative and take a look at the world around you; anything from a blade of grass to some grains of sand can look dramatically different when photographed enlarged.
To take the photos, simply adhere the item to your microscope’s slide using the technique recommended by the manufacturer.
Set the slide on the microscope and focus the lens until you get the level of detail you’re after. Shift the slide around on the tray or move to different slides until you get the image that you’re looking for. Keep in mind that when photographing certain things, like snowflakes, that time can be of the essence at this stage.
Once you have the microscope focused, get as much light on the subject as you can. You may need to play with spotlights or make sure that you’re outside in good light. The idea is to get the slide as illuminated as possible.
Now set the eye of your camera right up against the eyepiece of the microscope. Focus your camera and take the picture right through the microscope. You will capture exactly what you see when you look through the scope to the slide below.
From There
Once you’ve captured your images, try playing around with things like contrast, light, and color in photo editing software. The idea is to try to bring out more of the small, normally hidden details that you won’t see otherwise.
Then, consider having your photographs printed on oversized photopaper, so you can take a look at these items or objects in a way and at a size where they are rarely if ever seen.
Have Some Fun
Microscopic photography can be a fun way to capture patterns, colors, and shapes not ordinarily seen. Consider investing in some equipment that will let you bring your imagination and your photography skills together in a new and vibrant way.