Use a spotting scope and camera for birding and other photography projects where proximity isn't an option and the subject is small.
Coupling a spotting scope, tripod and camera is a great way to build in super-zoom functionality for your camera. Use it for birding and other photography projects where proximity isn't an option and the subject is small. Cameras can be attached to certain spotting scopes with two inexpensive accessories---a telephoto camera mount and a camera body adapter. Focusing takes place on the scope.
Instructions
1. Mount the spotting scope and camera assembly onto a tripod. A car window mount will likely produce blurry photos as any movement will affect the image. Shield the scope from wind for that reason too.
2. Turn the zoom power ring on the scope to the desired magnification, say 60x.
3. Adjust your camera settings. You should use the fully automatic mode to begin with as you concentrate on composing the shot, keeping the assembly still and focusing. If you want to use manual settings keep in mind 60x magnification will provide an approximate focal length of 4000 mm with no image sensor size adjustment factor. You will need to experiment based on your scope, amount of daylight and sensor size. An effective f/stop could be f/64 and the shutter speed could be 1/15, 1/30. Check the manuals that came with the camera, scope, adapter and mount.
4. Turn off any auto focus options on the camera and focus the scope---for all intents and purposes the scope is now your camera lens---so the image on the viewfinder or LCD display is clear.
Tags: your camera, birding other, birding other photography, camera birding, camera birding other, option subject
