At a basic level, photomicroscopy may be performed simply by connecting a camera to a microscope, thereby enabling the user to take photographs at reasonably high magnification.
Scientific use began in England in 1850 by Richard Hill Norris FRSE for his studies of blood cells.
[1] Roman Vishniac was a pioneer in the field of photomicroscopy, specializing in the photography of living creatures in full motion.
Photomicrographs may also be obtained using a USB microscope attached directly to a home computer or laptop.
Early adopters of the microscope, such as Robert Hooke and Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, were excellent illustrators.
Websites and traveling art exhibits such as the Nikon Small World and Olympus Bioscapes have featured a range of images for the sole purpose of artistic enjoyment.
Some collaborative groups, such as the Paper Project have also incorporated microscopic imagery into tactile art pieces as well as 3D immersive rooms and dance performances.