> Well, guys and gals, I've been following the discussions on microphotography
> for the past 18 months and just reread several of them.  You've described
> several techniques for "closeup" photography (closeup lenses, extension
> tubes, bellows, reverse lenses, use of old, reversed 8mm and 16mm movie
> lenses, and combinations thereof).  But, there has not been much discussion
> of use of microscopy, which I presume is a result of the fact that this
> would be an expensive proposition for most of us home hobbyists.  However,
> apparently a few of you do and several of you obviously use microscopy in
> your jobs.  I'm ready to take the plunge and put together a microscopy
> system.  I'm hoping those of you with experience in low power microscopy can
> shed some light on several issues and make recommendations.  I've done a web
> search and received some literature and it's helped, but also created some
> confusion.  Keep in mind that I have to fund this myself.  I already have a
> dual power Swift stereo microscope (10X, 20X), but am willing to upgrade.
>
> 1.  Is it worth the additional cost to go with zoom over dual power?
> 2.  Can I really get satisfactory picture detail through one of the viewing
> eyepieces, or will a trinocular make a substantial difference?
> 3.  If I go trinocular, what features should I be sure to get?  Esp. as
> regards optimizing light throught the photo tube?
> 4.  Whether I go thru a viewing eyepiece or trinocular viewing port, what
> features are a must for the adapter tube?
> 5.  What would be the most cost effective continuous (as opposed to flash)
> lighting arrangement without going to fiber optic lighting?  And, what
> precautions should I take?
> 6.  Any experience with brands/dealers and comments or suggestions?
> 7.  Any suggestions/recommendations as to an SLR body (I'm planning to go
> with a film camera)?
> 8.  What's the most important aspect of the system to focus upon?
> 9.  Any general comments, cautions or advise would be appreciated.
>
> Marlo

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