This paper will outline basic selection and use of a compound microscope for conservators, so the emphasis is on the development of a studio tool and not laboratory research equipment. Without a firm understanding of basic optical microscopy, routine use in analysis of resins is ill-advised. Since there are now more optical microscopy methods available - many of which can be combined - a review of system design specifically for conservation is given. The work environment, ergonomics, specifications for several techniques, and photography will be covered in some detail. A more expansive discussion of fluorescence microscopy is included, because of the great utility of the technique and many requests for specifications. Some observations about under-utilized and newer techniques will be offered. A review of a variety of sample preparation techniques is presented, along with shortcomings of each method. The references list includes some of the most current literature for microscopy, photomicrography, and image analysis.