Need help using microscope with A350

[Tony Meredith]

Hi All,

recently at work we purchased a T mount adapter that allows us to use alpha mount cameras on a microscope. Using the A350, we can get an image on the live view screen, but then can't take a photo because the camera doesn't have a lens attached. Is there a way to override this? I've set the shutter release priority to release, but this obviously is not the problem. Any help greatly appreciated.

Tony

[David Kilpatrick]

You must use manual exposure. This also gives you an accurate exposure preview in live view, but you may have to blast light into the scope to make that work. We have a nice old vintage Wetzlar microscope in Shirley's study, gathering dust on its wooden case but pristine inside. We have an adaptor as well, T-mount made by SRB Film Services. Might try the A350, as it is very light, on the rig.

David

[Tony Meredith]

Thanks David

could you tell me if wireless flash will work using this setup? I was going to try using the 56 flash wirelessly with small reflectors providing fill light.

Tony

[David Kilpatrick]

It will work but no live view functions of much use. You will get a totally dark screen with LV in manual mode at typical flash settings on a microscope. So you will have to use a modelling light of some sort of do your focusing, whether through the optical finder or checking the live view screen. I suggest buying an IKEA glass illuminator - this is a small halogen lamp in a circular base with a glass diffuser on top (it's for putting paperweights on top of). I have some but I can not see a name on them. They cost I think around £6 each and have a 12v AC mains adaptor to run them. They are perfect for use as a microscope illuminator.

David

[Tony Meredith]

Thanks again. We have plenty of heatless light sources designed for microscope work that should do us for modelling lamps to aid focusing.

[stevecim]

Hi Tony

Where did you get your T-mount?

Cheers, Stephen

[Tony Meredith]

Hi Stephen,

We bought it from a Camera House store, which is a large camera franchise in Australia. It is not a normally stocked item, but we have a good relationship with our local store manager and he had no real problems tracking one down for us.

Cheers,
Tony

[stevecim]

Tony, since your around how did you go with the a350 and Microscope? can you post any pics?

Cheers, Stephen

[Tony Meredith]

Basically we have got it working, but still have a long way to go i think. When i get some spare time i will need to sit down and sort out the lighting side of things. We have had some initial problems with getting enough light up the microscope and with controlling specular highlights on insect subjects. What i think i need are some small diffuser panels and flexible arms that clamp to the bench top for holding them. I look forward to being able to post some examples when i get it all sorted out.