Digiscoping

The digiscoping describes a method of imaging with telescopes and spotting scopes. The root word is derived from the English scope for telescope.

Generally

The meeting of two developments in the 1990s, this recording process allows. On the one hand it was the visual improvement of telescopes, in particular the larger exit pupil of the eyepiece, on the other hand, there was a digitization and miniaturization of the recording equipment, especially in the compact camera class. Around the turn of the millennium, the two developments were so advanced that could create at low equipment price with the connection of compact cameras on the spotting scope long-focus photos of good quality. Thus, the imaging observation of nature floodgates had opened. Today, all major Spektivhersteller offer a range of technology, including the two market leaders Carl Zeiss Sports Optics and Swarovski Optik. The art ranges from special eyepieces via adapter systems to modular or integrated systems ( see chart).

Special

The digiscoping learned since the turn of the millennium a great popularity, especially in the bird and nature watchers. The high focal lengths from 800 mm to over 2,000 mm help long distances - as is typical in bird watching - photographically to bridge. Set the Digiskoper is also facing a number of technical challenges, such as shallow depth of field or Verwacklungsfreiheit.

As recording devices to offer both mobile phones with camera function, compact or SLR cameras, as well as smaller video cameras. Optical limiting effect, the focal length of the lens used. In general, for reasons of appearance: Camera lenses should be a 3 -4- fold zoom, thus covering a focal length range of approximately 24-120 mm in KB format. The focal point of spotting scope and camera lens should exactly match each other. Blurred and / or strong vignetting ( Bildabschattungen ) would otherwise ensue. For digiscoping (physical ) camera resolutions of 6-8 million pixels are usually sufficient.

Dissemination

In Spain enjoys digiscoping widespread usage, as well as in Scandinavia and England. From Spain demanding image results come up with this alternative photography long focal lengths (see Digiscoper of the Year by Swarovski Optik ). One way to approach this issue is to visit one of the more numerous birders fairs in Germany (eg Munich Bird, Hanse Bird, Bird Festival).

Originally developed by bird watchers, digiscoping is now another option for photographic expression. The method is suitable as a low cost alternative to the long focal length nature photography as well as for unconventional implementation of visual ideas in art and advertising.