Deep Focus 3.1 - How to capture slices

The first step in composition of the image with extreme depth of field is to capture a set of images with different plane of focus - "slices". In each slice the different area should be in focus. The change of plane of focus should be performed by the focus knob of a microscope and it should not be greater than is the depth of field of the microscope. It means the well focused area should move smoothly over the specimen.

Recommended capturing procedure:

  1. Open the control panel of your capturing device.

  2. Set the exposure time manually so the exposition will not change during capturing of slices. In case of using automatic exposition use the AEL (Auto Exposure Lock) function. Manual setting of all available camera parameters is recommended for best results.

  3. Using the live image focus the microscope to the bottom part of the specimen.

  4. Capture the image and change slightly the plane of focus towards the highest part of the specimen using the microscope focus knob.

  5. Repeat the step 4) until the highest part of the specimen is well focused and captured.

Tips for capturing of slices:

  1. Place the specimen to the centre of field of view of the capturing device.

  2. Capture the whole series of slices with the same camera and microscope setting. Do not change the zoom during capturing from stereo microscope.

  3. When using OLYMPUS® consumer digital cameras (SP and CAMEDIA® series) it is recommended to use manual exposure mode, switch the focusing mode to manual with focus set to infinity.

  4. Do not change the illumination during capturing of slices.

  5. The best results can be achieved when capturing larger amount of slices with small change in plane of focus.

Note

The higher the resolution and number of slices is, the longer time the composing process takes.

OLYMPUS®, CAMEDIA® are registered trademarks of OLYMPUS Corp.

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