2. Introduction
Making photographic records or imaging for microanalysis of various kinds of
evidential objects through various techniques is a challenge in forensic science.
Be it a small part of a human hair/ fiber or a cleverly forged document involves
the use of photomicrography, macro-photography and other techniques like using
oblique light , transmitted light etc. Before going in depth of the techniques, let
us learn the definitions of Microphotography and Photomicrography
The Royal Microscopical Society states:
1) Microphotography - "Photography, particularly of papers, arranged to create
small images which will not be studied without enlargement. Not to be tangled
with photomicrography." This is generally not required in forensic imaging.
2) Photomicrography - "The recording by taking pictures of an image created by
a microscope; i.e. photography through a microscope. This should not to be
confused with microphotography."
3. Microphotography
Microphotography, also known as micrography, is a technique that involves
capturing highly magnified images of small objects or details using specialized
equipment, such as microscopes or macro lenses. Unlike photomicrography,
which focuses on microscopic subjects, microphotography can include a
broader range of subjects that are smaller than what can be easily captured
with standard photography techniques.
4. Objective of microphotography
The primary objective of microphotography is to reveal and document the
intricate details, textures, patterns, and structures of small objects that are not
readily visible to the naked eye. It allows for the exploration and visualization of
the hidden world of tiny objects, whether they are living organisms, natural
specimens, manufactured products, or artistic creations.
5. Setup of microphotography
Microphotography requires specialized equipment to achieve high levels of
magnification and resolution. Microscopes equipped with cameras, macro
lenses, or dedicated microphotography setups are commonly used. These
setups may include additional tools such as ring lights, diffusers, focusing
racks, and precise positioning Systems to optimize image quality and capture
the desired level of detail.
The choice of lighting, background, and specimen preparation techniques play
crucial roles in microphotography. Depending on the subject and desired
effect, different lighting techniques like bright-field, dark-field, backlighting,
or side lighting can be employed. Specimens may need to be prepared or
mounted in a way that ensures stability, clarity, and preservation of their
inherent features.
6. Cameras used in microphotography
1. Nikon D850
2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
3. Sony Alpha a7R IV
4. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III
5. Leica M10-R
6. Fujifilm X-T4
Fig : Image of Nikon D850
7. Application of microphotography
Microphotography finds applications in various fields and industries. In science and
research, it contributes to the study of biology, botany, entomology, geology, and
materials science, providing valuable insights into the microscopic world. In medicine
and healthcare,
Microphotography aids in diagnostics, pathology, and medical research, enabling the
visualization of cells, tissues, and microorganisms. It also has applications in forensics,
quality control, art preservation, and documentation of cultural heritage.
8. Summary of microphotography
In conclusion, microphotography is a specialized technique that enables the capture
and exploration of small objects and details that are not easily visible to the naked eye.
It plays a crucial role in scientific research, medical diagnostics, and various other
fields, allowing for the visualization and documentation of the microscopic world.
9. Introduction of photomicrography
Photomicrography is a specialized form of photography that involves capturing images
of microscopic subjects using a microscope. It combines the techniques of microscopy
and photography to document and explore the intricate details of objects that are too
small to be seen by the naked eye.
Fig : image of hair
10. Objective of microphotography
The primary purpose of photomicrography is to create high-resolution images of
microscopic specimens, such as cells, tissues, microorganisms, minerals, or other tiny
structures. These images serve various scientific, medical, educational, and research
purposes, providing valuable visual information for analysis, documentation,
publication, and presentation.
Fig : image of Fossil diatom
11. Setup of microphotography
To capture a photomicrograph, a microscope equipped with a camera or a dedicated
photomicrography setup is used. The camera can be attached directly to the
microscope's eyepiece or connected to a separate port designed for photography. In
some advanced systems, digital cameras and computer software are used for real-time
image acquisition and processing.
Photomicrography requires careful control of lighting, focus, magnification, and
exposure settings to ensure optimal image quality. Techniques such as bright-field,
dark-field, phase contrast, differential interference contrast (DIC), fluorescence, and
confocal microscopy can be employed to enhance the visibility and contrast of the
microscopic subjects.
13. Application of microphotography
The resulting photomicrographs can reveal intricate structures, cellular details,
patterns, textures, and interactions that are often hidden from the naked eye. They
can be further processed, analyzed, and manipulated using image editing software to
enhance contrast, adjust colors, annotate, measure, or create composite images.
Photomicrography finds applications in various fields, including biology, medicine,
pathology, material science, geology, forensics, and quality control. It contributes to
scientific research, medical diagnostics, education, publication of scientific papers, and
the development of new technologies.
14. Summary of microphotography
In summary, photomicrography is a powerful tool that combines microscopy and
photography to capture and document the hidden world of microscopic objects. It enables
scientists, researchers, and educators to visualize and understand the intricate details and
structures that play a vital role in various scientific disciplines.