A microscope camera is a camera that can be used in microscopy to capture still or moving images. These images have the same magnification as the microscope, allowing users to create a permanent record of objects viewed through a microscope in crisp, clear detail. Many scientific labs have microscope cameras for researchers to use, and casual users may also want to photograph what they see through microscopes for posterity or interest.
A microscope camera may be integrated directly into a microscope for ease of use in some cases. The eyepiece allows users to focus and view through it, and the camera is activated when they want to take a picture. The camera captures whatever is visible through the eyepiece, sometimes displaying a preview on a computer screen so the user can make any necessary adjustments. Microscopes with built-in cameras can be quite costly, especially if both the microscope and the camera are of high quality.
Other designs are made to fit over the eyepiece of a microscope, usually with special attachments. When using a digital camera, a small viewing screen may be included to allow people to see what the camera sees, or a preview may be displayed on a computer screen next to the microscope. Scientific suppliers and optical companies sell both digital and film cameras designed for use with microscopes.
For use with a microscope, some hobbyists prefer to modify generic cameras. This can be accomplished by fitting the camera with an attachment that allows it to be used with a microscope eyepiece. Kits for this purpose are sometimes sold by scientific supply companies, and skilled people can also fabricate specialty attachments to make a microscope camera. Although the image quality may not always be ideal, this option is often far more user-friendly and less expensive than a specialized microscope camera.
When evaluating a microscope camera, there are a number of options to consider, just as there are when choosing a regular camera. The choice of a digital or film camera, as well as lens quality, resolution, sensor sensitivity, and the camera’s ability to interface smoothly with existing equipment, are all important considerations. It’s a good idea to test several models in a lab to see which one feels the most comfortable to use, and to look at samples from various microscope cameras to get an idea of the image quality to expect if you have the opportunity.