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point and shoot camera suggestions for use with lichens in the field?

  • 31 Oct 2018 9:25 PM
    Message # 6883406

    I'd like to get a small point and shoot type camera to carry in my pocket or small pack when I'm out wandering. I'd really like to be able to use it for up-close photos of lichens and mosses in situ. Has anyone found one that works for them?

  • 01 Nov 2018 9:23 AM
    Reply # 6884252 on 6883406

    I have gone through several point-n-shoot cameras over the years and have settled on the Olympus TG series (I currently have the TG5).  Waterproof (not just water resistant -- I take it diving, literally), shock/crush-proof, good optical zoom, aperture up to f/2.0 (great for low-light situations), focuses down to 1cm distance, excellent macro functions including stacking on-the-fly (very few cameras can do that).  Bottom line, you can take a photo of a moss peristome, have it fill most of the frame, do it in near darkness, and have the whole subject three-dimensional in focus.  Purchase the optional LED light ring if you are taking macros.

  • 01 Nov 2018 11:22 AM
    Reply # 6884434 on 6883406

    The Olympus Tough is the best camera for anything small that you need a closeup. You can even zoom in on macro setting. The stacking makes everything in the frame in focus. Do get the light ring. Half the time now I take a picture of a lichen rather than use my loupe, I can see far more detail, especially when you would have to stand on you head to see.

  • 02 Nov 2018 11:28 AM
    Reply # 6886038 on 6883406

    Really it is a great camera! I love mine. My only problem with it is that it isn't as good as my old point and shoot for taking photos through the scope. For instance it doesn't have as many different settings for the type of lightbulb in the scope. But I do use it with the scope and it is amazing in the field.


  • 02 Nov 2018 11:28 AM
    Reply # 6886039 on 6883406

    Scott, is that the camera you had at the lichen blitz, the one with the LED light ring?

  • 04 Nov 2018 8:32 AM
    Reply # 6887992 on 6883406

    I believe so, but am not certain

  • 29 Dec 2018 5:35 PM
    Reply # 6976478 on 6883406

    You convinced me. Got my TG5 on Thursday and taking it for it’s first field test tomorrow. Did get a great focus stacked macro shot of an Assassin Bug already!

  • 30 Dec 2018 10:21 AM
    Reply # 6976998 on 6883406

    For the last few days there has been a similar discussion with information and example photos posted on Bryonet - http://bryology.org/bryonet/

  • 30 Dec 2018 8:12 PM
    Reply # 6977442 on 6883406

    I use a Nikon Coolpix P300.  It does great Macro.

  • 30 Jan 2019 8:31 PM
    Reply # 7138456 on 6883406

    I use a focus stick to stabilize camera and set the distance from the object equal to the minimum focus distance plus one inch for the camera. The stick is attached to tripod mount with a 1/4 -20 bolt. My stick is a paint stirrer and is easy to carry in the field. If you are purchasing a new camera I recommend one with a gps.


    Last modified: 30 Jan 2019 8:32 PM | Larry Lass

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