A USB microscope. I built an extension arm that mounts on my tripod and can reach about 3 feet into the grow space. Then I turn off all of the fans, maneuver the scope into position, stop breathing and take the picture.
The stems are more flimsy then those in the first picture. The fact that the leave to bud ratio in the second one is a bit high on the leafy side could be because of to much Nitrogen in the mix. Near the end of the grow Nitrogen is still given, but at a lower ratio as the plants take up more Phosphorus and Potassium to generate more and denser buds.
@AutoBobje hit the nail on the head.
