First Darkfield Experiment

Darkfield has been a mystery to me. I’ve seen plenty of photos taken in darkfield; but didn’t really understand how or why to use it. There are plenty of darkfield filters available online but my lack of understanding made me reluctant to make even a small investment.

Then I came across a Microbe Hunter video about these filters and how to make one. As always, these videos are filled with lessons and practical information.

It seemed that it was fairly simple to make my own. I located transparent plastic, used a filter as a template, cut it out, and cut a small circle of black paper attached with double stick tape to be the stop. It’s not pretty, but it works. 

YAY!

I’m not ready for Rheinberg or Oblique filters but they look fascinating. For now, I’m still taking baby steps.

Filters and filter holders

Microbehunter.com is my microscope tutor. I learn something from every video. The lessons are either useful to me or just plain interesting. Yesterday I found a bonanza.

I watched:  Making microscope filters: Darkfield, Rheinberg, Oblique

I learned:

• My new microscope does have a filter holder. From what I’ve read. I was looking for a slot in the condenser. Mine has a swing-out holder at the bottom of the condenser
• Why I should use a blue filter: I have halogen illumination
• How to make my own darkfield filter.
• What a Rheinberg filter is; how to make one; why/when to use one.
• What an oblique filter is and when to use one. I’d heard reference to oblique illumination, but had no idea what it is.

This site is a wonderful place to learn about microscopes and their uses