The camera body includes its own lens with autofocus and zoom capabilities, making it fundamentally suitable as an imaging device independently of a microscope. For simplicity, this example removed the lens-free tube because its outer edge created a round shadow in the field of view. It was discovered that this ‘mini-camera’ offers a wide range of focus settings—from infinity down to about 4 cm. At the minimum focusing distance, objects as small as 5.5 cm can be captured (equivalent to an aspect ratio of 1920 x 1080). Zoom functionality remains fully available here too. Standalone operation demonstrates impressive depth of field and high-resolution imaging through sample photos shown in Figs 18, 19, and 20.

More sophisticated macro functions can be achieved by adding a close-up filter and flash system to enhance the camera’s native zoom lens performance. For reference purposes, we utilized an achromatic close-up filter and flash system (20 diopters) from ‘Magniflash’. Under these conditions—without activating the zoom—an object length of 2.5 cm could be measured with high resolution, sharp focus, and minimal image distortion due to field curvature. However, if motion blur is a concern, an adjustable tripod becomes essential for stability. For more details on this system, see our earlier article in Mikroskopie (2014;1:39-51).

Figures 18 through 20 showcase examples of the camera’s capabilities. Fig. 18 captures a handheld snapshot taken from a window, demonstrating an extensive depth of field with metal latticework about one meter away and distant buildings roughly fifty meters out. Fig. 19 shows a close-up image of a Euro coin—also captured handheld but propped up on a five-centimeter-high book under diffused ambient light conditions. Finally, Fig. 20 highlights stamp details where halftone grid lines are clearly visible despite similar setup parameters.

Last Updated: 2025-09-05 00:59:05