photomicrographs

A photomicrograph is a photograph taken through a microscope that records a magnified image of a specimen. Photomicrographs are used to document features visible only at high magnification and to share images in scientific publications, textbooks, and archival collections. They can be produced with light microscopes or electron microscopes, yielding images in color or grayscale.

In light microscopy, common imaging modes include brightfield, darkfield, phase contrast, polarized light, and differential interference contrast (DIC, also known as Nomarski interference). Fluorescence microscopy uses labeled specimens and records emitted light. More advanced optical techniques such as confocal laser scanning and structured illumination improve optical sectioning and resolution. Electron microscopes produce photomicrographs with much higher resolution using beams of electrons; scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are standard modes.

Preparation and interpretation: Specimens are prepared by mounting, embedding, staining, or labeling to enhance contrast. Digital cameras attached to microscopes capture images; subsequent processing may include stitching, color adjustment, or deconvolution, while maintaining fidelity and proper documentation. Scale bars and metadata accompany photomicrographs to convey magnification and imaging conditions. Photomicrographs support qualitative observation and quantitative analysis, such as measurements of cell size, density, or mineral grain structure.