Figure 2. The RMS Fungi Studio Extreme Macro Rig, 2025 version. The copy stand on the right is not part of the Macro Rig. It just shares the table and conveys scale. Note that the working surface is supported on wheelbarrow innertubes for vibration dampening (per Lester Lefkowitz). The Macro Rig frame is made from 2020 aluminum extrusion. All parts are readily available online.


The Extreme Macro Rig Te current state of the art includes


studio rigs and field rigs. Te studio version of the Extreme Macro Rig is simpler and less expensive to put together. Tat’s what is described here. Te rig looks like a microscope laid


sidewise (Figure 2). And, while I love my many microscopes with shameful passion, I have to admit that the Macro Rig offers some capabilities not found even in high end, very expensive


microscopes. (And please don’t ask my wife how I found that out.)


The Basics Te complete rig looks complex but


there are just a few operating parts working together to produce a stable camera platform that moves the camera toward the well-lit subject in small, repeatable increments. Te images taken after each move are combined using a focus stacking program. To get the magnification we crave, start with any decent camera and an


extreme macro lens. Many new and used macro lenses, microscope lenses, lens reversing adapters, bellows, extension tubes, etc. are widely available. Tis topic is a deep rabbit hole for the truly obsessed. Check out the references in the Conclusions section below for excellent guides. I chose one of the simplest “cheap” options. Figure 3 shows a prepackaged lens and tube system. Tis system comes with 10x, 20x, 35x, and 50x extension tubes. One significant advantage of the rig


Summer 2026 FUNGI Volume 19:2 35


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