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Extreme macro photography: Sample application for biological specimens using the LM macroscope and a DSLR/DSLM camera

The LM macroscope has been specially developed for use with modern interchangeable lens mount digital cameras. The imaging sensors in these cameras deliver high-resolution performance and an extensive dynamic range. A quality optical system that is specifically designed to meet the requirements of this type of application is needed to utilise the full potential of these cameras. Usually, normal stereo microscopes are used for this magnification range. However, they do not produce the desired results when it comes to image capturing. LM macroscopes, by contrast, deliver superb image quality and depth of field, and are easy to use.

The following images show a chestnut photographed at different powers of magnification:

1.) Chestnut on the tree

The sweet chestnut is a deciduous tree of the beech family that produces starchy edible nuts. It was voted tree of the year 2018.

2.) General view of a chestnut, 60mm x 40mm FOV

The edible fruits of the tree are broadly referred to by the generic term ‘chestnuts’. Another name for chestnuts is ‘marrons’ – ‘Maroni’ in Austria – although they are actually only a subspecies of the sweet chestnut. The burrs are green while growing and then change to a yellow-brown colour (as shown in the image) when ripe.

For a high-resolution image, click here

3.) Detailed view of a chestnut, 35mm x 23mm FOV

The chestnut has three nuts in a bur, covered with a shiny, dark brown hull. As opposed to horse chestnuts – which are not related to the actual edible chestnut – sweet chestnuts have a pointed end with a small tuft of hairs and an attachment scar on the other side.

For a high resolution image, click here

4.) Detailed view of a chestnut, 35mm x 23mm FOV

Chestnuts are rich in carbohydrates, starch and sucrose.

For a high resolution image, click here

5.) Detailed view of a chestnut, 10mm x 6.6mm

Another image of the hairy tip at a higher magnification. The radicle (primary root) is located near the tip of the chestnut kernel.

For a high resolution image, click here

LM macroscopes have been developed for sophisticated imaging techniques. We recommend focus stacking to create images with maximum depth of field: multiple images are taken at different focus distances and combined into a stack, which is then processed with a special software tool. The result is one composite image that is sharply focused from front to back.

The image stacks can be created by turning the micrometer screw and repeatedly triggering the shutter. A much more elegant and less complicated solution for creating a focus stack is to use a motorised focusing rail. The LM macroscope is factory-ready for installation of a motorised focusing rail.

StackShot, developed by a US company, is a high-quality macro rail system available at a very attractive price (around € 550). Attaching the StackShot motorised focusing rail to the LM macroscope is simple and can be accomplished in a few easy steps. We recommend the Helicon software for controlling the image capturing process: it renders excellent results, is easy to use and works great in combination with the StackShot focusing rail.