(ups! The header should read MACROPOD)
After a lot of research I came to the conclusion that what I was looking for was not to be found.
So, if it doesn't exist - create it!
I have now invented what I call the MACROPOD
I know that a Macropod is also known as “any member of the kangaroo family Macropodidae”, but let’s forget about that for a moment.
The requirements I had, was to provide an easy and very flexible tool to be used as an assistant when shooting macro.
- It should be easy to assemble and disassemble
- It should be very rigid and stable
- It should be possible to attach various accessories and tools
- It should be sized to be placed on a kitchen table
So, what came out of the head?
...it’s a little rough but it’s a prototype and my welding could improve...
This, the base unit, is constructed of steel and very rigid.
It is possible to attach the vertical tube in three different positions
Accessories
Object plate
It is made of a steel frame with a wooden board. I have glued some foam rubber on it to provide a non slip surface (this material was originally to be used as sound proofing material for PCs).
The Object plate can be tilted up/down and locked in any angle.
The Powerbox, placed underneath the Object plate, holds the LED lamps in place by the USB connectors and has a 5V regulator built in to provide power to the LEDs.
It is also the distribution point for 12V accessories. A power adapter for 220V/12V is connected to the Powerbox.
LED
This is originally USB goose-neck-lamps that have been modified with high intensity LED to get some more light.
The three LEDs I made are for red, blue and white light. As mentioned they are attached to either side of the Powerbox.
Halogen
When you require a more powerful light you can use the Halogen lamp. It is attached to the Universal mount.
This is also built on a goose neck to allow flexible adjustment. It is connected to the Powerbox which can support Halogen lamps up to 50W.
The construction provide easy access if you would like to switch the Halogen lamp for a different color or power level.
Clamps
Modified USB goose-neck-lamps that provide a good grip and possibility to place the sample or other things in any position. They should be attached to any of the holes on the frame underneath the Object plate.
Fluid mount & Universal mount
Fluid mount is specifically made to allow a bottle with fluid to be placed above the Object plate in a very convenient way. Perfect for the drop shot.
To be able to accommodate different accessories (like the Halogen) I fabricated a simple Universal mount.
A shot of the complete set up placed on the kitchen table.
And last but not least a quick test shot of a spider that was struck by the green Halogen light from above
What do you think about the Macropod?
I’m sure you can come up with a lot of other ideas for accessories – let’s hear it!
Great idea!! Thank you for the tip 
