Natural Science Imaging and Photography

Preface: Why I Wrote this Book

About the Authors
Part I: Industry Expectations and Attitudes
1. Why Best Practices as an Approach

2. Optimizing Imaging Outcomes
3. The Image in Science

4. Ethical Practices

5. The Subject of the Photograph
Part II: Tools and Technology Foundations
6. Cameras and Photographic Practices

7. Light and Lenses

8. A Deeper Dive into Digital Devices
9. Lighting for Natural Science Photography
Part III: Applications
10. Aerial Photography

Keith Mancini
11. Close-Up and Macro Photography
12. Computational Photography
13. Field Photography

14. Fossils, Minerals, and Geological Samples

15. Imaging with Invisible Spectrums

Adrian Davies
16. Contemporary Light Microscopy Practices
17. Photographing Small Animals in Captivity

18. Time Based Imaging

19. Image Processing in Science

Biography

Michael R. Peres is an award-winning photo-educator and biomedical photographer. A professor at Rochester Institute of Technology, Peres has been a leader in the field for more than 40 years. He has lectured and led workshops in more than 15 countries and authored more than ten books, including the Focal Encyclopedia of Photography, Fourth Edition and Laboratory Imaging and Photography.

"Michael Peres has produced yet another outstanding technical text, Natural Science Imaging and Photography which addresses the various techniques and methods for capturing images from science and nature. Along with seven expert contributors, Peres has created a go-to source for all image makers attempting to record high-quality images of both visual and invisible subjects. Starting with a historical overview of photography’s origins, up through emerging digital technologies, this volume provides concise data which provides how to successfully navigate the imaging chain with its the various parameters, considerations, preparations, practical applications, and best practices.

Natural Science Imaging and Photography addresses a variety of imaging techniques and treatments, including microscopic, macroscopic, small animal, time based, and even aerial images captured using aircraft & drones.　Nineteen chapters are offered filled with B&W and color photographs, illustrations, equations, and formulas to help simplify and explain the principles of imaging natural science subjects. Careful selection of imaging equipment, including cameras, lenses, filters, lab tools, etc. are presented in sufficient depth to guide one through the stages of image making. Plus digital imaging processing is presented in great detail, including extensive helpful step-by-step protocols. In addition to the technical imaging data, emphasis is stressed regarding creating scientific images while being careful to work safely, cause no harm, and obey professional standards and ethical guidelines.　　　　　　　　　 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

This outstanding technical book which Peres and his co-authors have created, each contributing their respective specialty, is hallmarked by one overriding theme: passion for their craft. Whether in the controlled lab or out in a remote field location their passion is palpable as they all clearly approach their work with the goal of attaining perfection. That passion is clearly reflected in their willingness to share their knowledge via this text. Anyone interested in learning about detailed techniques on capturing natural science images, from student to seasoned professional alike, should add this outstanding volume to their personal library, and keep it handy for frequent reference. Natural Science Imaging and Photography should be required-reading for all natural science image makers as it is truly an absolute "gold mine" of topical information!"

Robert C. Turner, RBP, MBA, FBPA, Director (retired), BioMedical Graphics Department, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California

"Professor Michael Peres’ book Natural Science Imaging and Photography is a complete tome on the techniques and practices required for the photographic documentation of natural science. His decades of experience as the head of RIT’s Biomedical Photography program prepared him well for this book. Peres invited some of the world’s specialists in their fields to be contributing authors covering aerial photography, ethical practices, field photography, geological photography, imaging processing, and best practices. These authors together with Peres have written a wonderful and comprehensive manual for natural science applications.　

Photographing subjects that are invisible is explored, as well as photomicrography, close up techniques, and photographing small animals in captivity. There are also chapters devoted to time-based imaging and ethics.

Everything from the foundations of photography, optics, light measurement, electromagnetic radiation, digital technology and lighting is included. For a scientist who needs to photograph their research or the photographer interested in science, you will find this book to be an all-encompassing resource for the techniques and practices needed in natural science as well as scientific photography. It is written using clear and everyday language, so you don’t have to be a scientist to enjoy the book."

Constance J. Johansen, RBP, BFA, FBCA, Retired from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency