Image Management

Digiscoped images are quite large when transferred from the camera to a PC. Before posting on a web site or printing for friends, the image should be resized and cropped.

Adobe Photoshop is a software package that operates on both Macintosh and PC computers. It can be used for cropping images, improving image sharpness, and for other image adjustments to improve the overall quality of the image. Photoshop is fairly expensive (about $600.00). Programs such as Paintshop Pro are less expensive (about $130.00) and work fine for cropping and other basic uses.

Visit the Digital Darkroom for Photoshop tips useful to digibirders.

Balance
The combination of scope and camera can be unbalanced when attached to a tripod. Experiment with adding weights to the front of the scope to provide improved balance.

A better option is the addition of a quick-release plate system for the tripod head.  In some designs the plate allows the scope to move back and forth to achieve balance.

Batteries
Don’t forget extra camera batteries when on an important trip. Digital cameras can consume a lot of power quickly. A rechargeable battery system will pay for itself quickly if you take a large number of photos.

Camera memory
If your plan is to take lots of photographs, select a digital camera with removable memory. Take extra memory cards on a photo shoot. Review the Snap Judgments article (Living Bird magazine, Autumn 2001) for additional information on camera memory.

Vibration control
One of the big challenges to taking advantage of the exceptional magnification available with digiscoping is controlling vibration. Even slight vibrations can be noticeable.

One option is to use the timer built into many cameras so you can avoid handling the camera while the photo is being taken. On the other hand, it's tough to train birds to sit still for long periods. This technique is useful for gulls and terns resting on the beach or in other situations when your subject may be motionless for several seconds.

Another approach is the use of a cable release system to provide a remote activation of the camera. For information on cable release options check with:

• The manufacturer of your camera. They may offer an optional cable release system.
• Harbortronics offers several different cable systems for several Nikon and Olympus cameras.
• B&H Photo and Video as well as other camera stores offer cables of various designs. Be sure to check that the model is compatible with your camera.
• Photosolve offers a variety of digiscoping aids.

These aids are important only if you are really interested in improving the quality of your photographic images. If birding is your primary interest, you'll probably find the "quick and close enough" approach to be adequate.

Kevin McGowan's Snap Judgement digiscoping article in the Lab's Living Bird magazine (Autumn 2001) is a good source for additional information.