Quoting Andrew Grebneff <[log in to unmask]>:

> I would suggest a digital camera with a true macro lens, though, as new
> scanners won't do the job. An SLR will give better results in theory; small
> point-&-shoots images suffer from very noticable wide-angle distorsion when
> used close-up.

__ Another important strategy to reduce distortion is to use a telephoto lens on
a bellows (or extention tubes) to get as far away from the shell as possible.
Or, use close-up lenses on telephoto lenses (or zoom lenses) to the same end.
These 'tricks' cost you in terms of less light getting to the film/CCD.



> Remember to use a tripod or macro mount (modified enlarger stands are ideal)
> and use the highest f-stop possible to maximize depth-of-focus (this will
> make for long exposures, necessitating a stable stand to avoid
> camera-shake).

__ By all means, heed Andrews's advice here... AND use the delay shutter timer
so that the camera has time to quiet down after your hand leaves it. In this
sense, CCD-digital cameras rock!... no moving parts to shake the camera.



A full-control digital camera is, perhaps, the prime tool for this job. They
don't come cheap, though.


Bob Dayle
http://cowry.org

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