Optimal design of wide-field macro-imaging

We present a detailed comparison of fluorescence imaging systems to determine optimal design conditions for different applications. We first compare ultrawide-field single lens imaging (>5cm field of view) and wide-field (1-2cm) tandem lens imaging with oblique illumination. This comparison allows us to understand the advantages and drawbacks of single lens and tandem lens configuration.Then we compare wide-field (1-2cm) tandem lens imaging with oblique illumination, and wide-field tandem lens imaging with epi-illumination. This initial analysis is used to guide the optical design of low-light wide-field imaging modalities such as two-photon imaging and wide-field Raman imaging.