Optical table set up

The optical table I set up for studio shots using the mk2 microscope lens.
A thick plastic sheet from an old LCD monitor as base.
A cheap x-y macro rail split into 2 to give two single rails mounted onto the sheet.
A short clamping arm on the RH specimen rail. A cheap micrometer modded by cutting off half the loop and also taking the back off and sawing the shaft so the main shaft does not rotate.

Total cost of parts
x-y rail £20
Micrometer £7
Extra specimen arm £12

Brian V.

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/AUAr​NN

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/AnCv​5b

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/AnCv​5m

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/ApK5​Sr

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/ApK5​T8

IMAGE LINK: https://flic.kr/p/ApK5​Tt

Those are interesting images. I'm guessing that you won't have to go outside at all this Winter. ; D

I like the fungus landscape shot.

PhotosGuy wrote in post #17784435
Those are interesting images. I'm guessing that you won't have to go outside at all this Winter. ; D

BlazinBob wrote in post #17784760
I like the fungus landscape shot.

Thanks for the comments

Brian v.

Impressive results from this set-up Brian, the spidermite and pollen shots are fabulous considering just how minute they really are.

good detail from the mite

Great table and amazing shots Brian. Your work continues to amazes me

Insane microscopy! Love the setup.

Worcester Lad wrote in post #17786058
Impressive results from this set-up Brian, the spidermite and pollen shots are fabulous considering just how minute they really are.

racketman wrote in post #17786429
good detail from the mite

Gary Wiant wrote in post #17786445
Great table and amazing shots Brian. Your work continues to amazes me

Benitoite wrote in post #17786513
Insane microscopy! Love the setup.

Thanks all for the comments. Should keep me occupied during the Winter

Brian v.

Love the Rust fungus, and thanks for posting your setup.

really like the last shot

Butts wrote in post #17786910
Love the Rust fungus, and thanks for posting your setup.

angelusnhc wrote in post #17788548
really like the last shot

Thanks for the comments
Brian v.

The leaf is making for a nice abstract.
I see that you are focusing moving the subject with the micrometer instead of the camera.
I managed to install my camera on a BHMJ focusing block and I was looking for an acceptably big aluminum plate to accommodate the rest of the setup. The idea with that piece of plastic from the LCD monitor is excellent. I have a couple lying around.

lui-même wrote in post #17809108
The leaf is making for a nice abstract.
I see that you are focusing moving the subject with the micrometer instead of the camera.
I managed to install my camera on a BHMJ focusing block and I was looking for an acceptably big aluminum plate to accommodate the rest of the setup. The idea with that piece of plastic from the LCD monitor is excellent. I have a couple lying around.

Thanks - hope it works out
BTW what is a BHMJ ?
Brian v