Microscopy is a wide field that offers many possibilities. The observation of nature is, naturally, a central focus for many amateur microscopists, but it is by far not the only task that one can engage in. There are also several other activities. This can include:
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- Slide making: This includes the preparation of permanent slides.
- Collecting: Some people like to collect antique microscopes and slides. Especially slides of the Victorian era are quite popular and often collected.
- Microscope maintenance: Some enthusiasts like to put together their own microscope from used parts. Microscopes do not age quickly and microscopes that are well maintained can remain in operation for decades.
- Photography: This is not only for documenting ones observations. Many specimens look extremely beautiful and artistic when viewed under the microscope.
- Drawing of images: This might be a bit less common, but I have heard of microscopists, who like to draw the things that they see under the microscope. This goes into scientific documentation.
- Taxonomy: Some enthusiasts are real experts of specific microotganisms. They like to hunt and identify microorganisms. With the hope of finding some rare specimens.
- As a support for other hobbies: For other hobbyists, the microscope is a supportive instrument. People who collect stamps or fossils, for example, might own a stereo microscope to observe their collection at a higher magnification.
In short, there are many ways to specialize and amateur microscopy has many things to offer.