Description:
Technology blog entry
The disclosed technology relates to lighting for high resolution, close-up imaging of small subjects or specimens. More specifically, the disclosed technology pertains to an adjustable lighting apparatus and methods adaptable for light microscopy, photomicrography, and macrophotography.
Lighting is an art that when skillfully applied may enhance the color, shadow, and texture of images for viewing and photography. Special techniques are often needed for optimal results, particularly if images are magnified. For instance, certain image characteristics may be improved by aiming light on a given specimen from two or more lights sources simultaneously. Indeed, some image details are only revealed with careful adjustment to the intensity and angle of light.
Imaging equipment incorporating features for experimenting with lighting adjustments are plentiful. Diffusers, reflectors, variable intensity light sources, and positioning adjustments are typically incorporated into light microscopes. Annular light rings are also combined to provide adjustable light quality from devices having multiple sources of light.
Still, there is a need to further advance lighting for close imaging of small specimens. An apparatus with the capacity to position multiple light sources at varying distances and angles around specimens that also offers the operator the ability to independently adjust individual light sources would make illuminating specimens easier to optimize while providing easy access to staged specimens. In accordance with the present invention, related embodiments of a lighting apparatus and methods improve upon advantages of known devices.
The disclosed technology relates generally to a method and system for an improved lighting apparatus compatible with imaging small specimens for viewing or photographic purposes. In certain embodiments, the disclosed technology includes a device that is a multipurpose laboratory and microscope light designed to provide adjustable annular and semi annular illumination for bright-field, dark-field, transmitted, and other oblique lighting applications. The unique combination of lighting options obtainable with this device are useful for observation of small objects where fine control of light direction, intensity, and distribution directly impacts observable surface features and object translucence.