Crystal Photography Cross Polarization Filter and Slide Holder System

When photographing a subject, such as crystals, contained on a microscope slide using Cross Polarized light you have to hold steady, not only the camera, but a base stationary polarizing filter, a microscope slide, and a rotating polarizing filter. Now unless you have four arms it isn’t easy to do. To help with this problem I developed a 3D printed system similar to one Alan Walls was using. This system is easy to build using a 3D printer some filter material and some screws as shown below.

To learn more about photographing crystals using polarized light check out many channels on Youtube but especially Alan Walls Youtube channel here - Link

1. 3D printed parts. See .3mf files.
2. Linear Polarization filter- There are many Linear Polarization sheet out there but we have found that this one works best. Link
3. 4- 6-32x5/8 Cap head machine screw.
4. Light Box Drawing Pad size A5 – Link

3D Print the project part using either PLA or PETG of any color you prefer.

Using the Filter Template included, in the .stl files, to cut the 2 filter from your linear polarization filter sheet.

Note that all the assembly parts are number in the order of assembly.

Remove the scratch protection film from the cut filter pieces place them into the recesses on parts 2 and 4.

Weigh down the filter to assure good contact. Carefully apply a bead of superglue around the edges of the filter to hold them in place. Let the glue dry before proceeding.

Lay part engraved with #1 on the table with the engraved number facing up.

Place filter wheel #2, with filter installed, on part #1 with numbers facing up.

Place part #4 on top of this assembly with the number facing up

Insert 4-#6x5/8” machine screws into assembly.

Tighten screws, they will thread themselves into part #1.

Flip assembly over with flat side on top for use and insert prepared slide into slide slot.

Place the entire assembly on top of your light pad and adjust the top filter wheel for desired effect.

Photograph the crystal formation. This image is shot with a Samsung cell phone on the above setup. Enjoy!!