The time lapse growth footage was captured over a period of two to three weeks, which is the time it takes for the leaves to grow into fearsome jaws. But maybe what’s even more remarkable than the images is the sound. As the fly whimpers in futile struggle, you wish your ears could cry.

I’m not even embedding the clip here because you need to go to YouTube and watch it in HD for the full experience, and also, the embedding has been disabled by BBC’s request. (So you literally need to go to YouTube and watch it in HD as well.) [YouTube]

Nikon rumours reviewed the Nikon-compatible Fabre Photo EX DSLR Stereoscopic Microscope, a $US1600 lens that pwns macro photography pretty hard.

Here’s a video they captured of a millipede. So gross, but we can’t look away.

Two points Nikon rumours makes: Integrated LEDs sound handy for illuminating the small subjects, but they tend to create a harsh reflection on surfaces. And, yes, the microscope lens is every bit as “fun” as you’d imagine.

Lots more test shots over at: [Nikon Rumors]

You’ll want to use the lens in there, along with some kind of cardboard holder, and mount it onto your mobile phone camera. It won’t be pretty, but the shots that come out will (provided everything you’re shooting from now on is within an inch of your camera). [Flickr via DIY Photography via MAKE]

Is this as good as a real macro lens? Of course not. But this costs a few bucks for the tape whereas the real lens costs hundreds to thousands of dollars. Check the video to see how to do it. [Lifehacker]

The Price: $US35

The Verdict: It works, and better than I expected. In search of some interesting test subjects, I turned to the latest Chicago magazine, mostly because I haven’t had a good steak in forever. With each shot taken from a few inches away, you can judge the Clarifi for yourself.

Without Clarifi

With Clarifi

Without Clarifi

With Clarifi

Which steak would you rather eat? Of course, there’s still the worthwhile question of whether or not it’s worth $US35 to get macro on your iPhone. But for what it’s worth, the case itself feels great in the hand, with just the right mix of plastic and rubber. If you’re the type who insists on putting a case on your phone, then why not get something a little extra out of it? Then again, the reception option might be more worthwhile. [Griffin]

The leaf was captured with a PowerShot A610. The winner, below, called “Eye of a Tokay Gecko,” was taken by “Alan M.”
{Wired]