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Photomicrography: Using the Canon EOS Utility 2 with Apple computers

Apple computers (such as the MacBook, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Pro and Mac mini) have always been highly popular in the English-speaking world. Among their particularly appealing characteristics are their novel design and use of cutting-edge technologies. While the Apple family of computers appeals primarily to people in creative professions, photo studios and advertising agencies, many large companies are now also using Apple products. When capturing photographs and shooting videos, the opportunity to work with iMac technology equipped with high-definition Retina screens (4k or even 5k) is simply wonderful! This advantage also applies to photographic documentation obtained via microscope or macroscope!

"Thanks to the high pixel density of the Retina screens, image details are emphasised, and the images themselves appear remarkably bright and lucid. We decided to use a Mac mini for our report, since this model is distinguished by its compact design and relatively affordable price."

Installing the Canon EOS Utility 2 software is very simple, and it is ready to use almost immediately. The Canon EOS camera can remain attached to the microscope or macroscope, as the equipment is controlled by the Mac mini.

In Live View mode, the camera image is displayed on the Mac mini screen.

All camera settings, such as white balance, brightness, etc., can be adjusted on the monitor, and even the shutter release is activated via mouse click.

This computer-based control prevents the motion blur caused by manual camera operation. Controlling the camera remotely also facilitates a highly efficient workflow, as the images taken can be stored immediately in the appropriate Mac directory. The Canon EOS Utility software, provided free of charge by Canon, can be downloaded from the Canon website.

Time-lapse shooting is another great technique for capturing stunning images.

Conclusion:

We enthusiastically recommend Canon’s Utility software for cameras being used in stationary mode on a microscope, as it enormously improves image quality and workflow. Another plus factor is that Canon offers this fantastic tool free of charge. Assuming your budget has the requisite flexibility, working with Apple’s high-definition Retina screens (4k or 5k) is simply a dream.

25.04.2016