my digiscoping kit (not to
scale)
Click on the images to go to pages about the products.
What is digiscoping?
Good question. Basically, it's when you put a digital camera together
with a telescope for photography.
There are lots of places on the web where you can find out more about
the technical aspects of digiscoping. This isn't one of them,
unfortunately. I don't have much technical knowledge and it shows.
However, here are a few simple words of advice from me.
1. Big
scopes are better (but heavier and more expensive) - more light getting
into the camera means a faster shutter speed (and sharper pics),
especially in poor light (which is the norm in this country).
2. A low-magnification
eyepiece often makes a world of difference. Some zoom eyepieces work
well but many don't. Experiment.
3. Being quick on the
draw is essential. Find a way to get your camera into place as quickly
as possible (this could mean a purpose-built adapter, or it could be a
bit of plastic from a spice jar lid. Be creative...).
4. Don't
be greedy. Zoom out a bit and you could get a better shutter speed -
you can crop in later on. This is one of my worst habits - I try to
compose the pic at the time when there's often no need.
5. Make life easy for
yourself. Digiscope birds that are close and in good light.
6. Learn how to use
your camera properly (another of my big faults).
7. Make sure your
tripod doesn't squeak or clank and keep your camera in a bag that you
can open quietly. The rrrrrrrrppp
of Velcro has flushed many a bird.
8. Know your limits.
Sometimes digiscoping just isn't possible (not if you want good pics,
anyway). Sometimes better not to bother when you'll only end up
disappointed.
9. Make sure you can
see your camera's monitor properly in bright light. There are special
sunshade things available or wearing a hat with a brim might work.
10. Don't forget to
watch the bird! It's easy to get obsessed with getting photos and
actually watching the bird
(you are a birder, yes?) gets pushed aside. Don't get stuck in the trap
of just watching it through your camera monitor. Step back and remember
what you're there for.
Try the links below (much more helpful than me).
Digiscoped.com
Digiscoping forum on BirdForum.net
Toadsnatcher on digiscoping
Surfbirds photo galleries (see what you're
up against)
