Motion strategies in two and three dimensions for scanning microscope imaging are described. An object, sample, or specimen is mounted on a precision three- dimensional stage. The object is moved concurrently with respect to a first axis and a second axis orthogonal to the first against a cutting tool to cut the object. An image of the cut portion is generated as the object is moved. The cutting tool may act as an optical waveguide for illuminating the portion of the object cut. An optical element captures images of the cut and illuminated object. The object may further be concurrently moved with respect to a third axis orthogonal to both the first and second.