The use of low cost compact cameras with focus stacking functionality in entomological digitization projects

Area of Science:

• Natural History
• Entomology
• Digital Imaging

Background:

• Digitizing natural history collections is crucial but often hindered by the high cost of professional camera systems.
• Limited funding in smaller institutions and for amateur entomologists restricts access to essential digitization technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a low-cost compact camera (Olympus Stylus TG-4 Tough) as an alternative for digitizing entomological collections.
• To compare its performance against professional setups regarding image quality, speed, cost, and ease-of-use.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of images produced by the Olympus Stylus TG-4 Tough and a professional setup.
• Assessment of key parameters: image quality, digitization speed, price, and user-friendliness.
• Evaluation of the camera's internal focus stacking functionality.

Main Results:

• The compact camera offers exceptional image quality relative to its significantly lower price point.
• Internal image stacking is rapid (seconds) and eliminates the need for additional software, reducing costs and time.
• While image quality is not on par with professional systems, it is sufficient for cataloguing entomological specimens.

Conclusions:

• The evaluated compact camera provides a viable, cost-effective solution for digitizing entomological collections.
• This technology democratizes specimen digitization, making it accessible to a wider range of institutions and individuals.
• Advancements in affordable technology will further facilitate the cataloguing of natural history specimens.