128
Exploring Photography
Microphotography is the process of creating
a photograph that is small enough to require
a magnifying lens to view the image. Micro-
photography was used in devices called stan-
hopes from the 1860s to today. See the History
Brief for more information.
The terms in the previous paragraphs are
very similar with very different meanings. To
avoid using these terms incorrectly, study the
chart in Figure 7-8.
Equipment and Methods
Each stage of magnifi cation requires spe-
cifi c cameras, lenses, and accessories to pro-
duce a usable image. While studying this
section, research the various ways to gain
access to the equipment. Your lenses may be
applicable as designed, or you may be able
to use these lenses in a nonstandard way to
get the intended image. Check the equip-
ment in your school, including the science
department—you may be able to use one of
the microscopes. Consider renting lenses for
a project. This is a great way to get experience
with expensive equipment that you will not
use that often.
Close-up Lenses
Close-up lenses are an inexpensive way
to get started in close-up photography. These
lenses can be added to almost any camera.
Figure 7-7. This photomicrograph of pollen grains
was taken on a scanning electron microscope.
Type of
photography
Image to subject
ratio
Subject size Image size Typical subjects
Close-up
photography
1:1 to 1:10 1″ to 5″ Any Flowers
Photomacrography 40:1 to 1:1 .025″ to 1″ Any Insects, coins
Photomicrography Less than 40:1 Less than .025″ Any Skin cells
Microphotography Any Very small Any
Macrophotography Any Very large Any
Figure 7-8. Study this chart of the terms used referring to the various levels of magnifi cation in photography so
you do not use them incorrectly.
History Brief
Stanhope Photos
Stanhopes are small cylindrical
lenses with a microphotograph
attached. The microphotograph is
typically 2 × 2 mm. These lenses were mounted
in knives, jewelry, pens, and tobacco pipes. The
following describes the time, people, and events
related to this curious novelty.
• 1780s Charles Stanhope invents
cylindrical lens.
• 1851 John Benjamin Dancer invents
microphotographs.
• 1857 René Prudent Patrice Dagron
combines the lens and the microphotograph
to produce novelties called stanhopes.