The Diagnostic Lens

Documenting insects via photos can be very difficult due to their small size. Several previous posts gave some feedback on different macro lenses in the field and in the lab . This post provides very simplified equipment recommendations for varying levels of financial investment. These are far from the only options and I would encourage anyone interested in purchasing new gear to research other options on YouTube or other photographic blogs. This post primarily covers lense

This study tested 10 different macro lens options for use in the lab to take photos of insect specimens.

There are many options for macro lenses. We tested several in the field, taking photos of live insects.

Ten years ago, Alex Wild published a guide in Scientific American on how to make your own focus-stacking system for under $6000. I can't seem to find that post any more, just some secondary posts with broken links to the original. Here is my own version of an off-the-shelf DIY build in 2025 for under $3000 (laptop not included). Focus-stacking system for $3000. Made from off-the-shelf items. Why a focus-stacking system? In short, insects are small and when you take a macrop