Digiscoping Cameras

Many cameras can be used for Digiscoping with the help of the variety of different adapters now on the market. Below is a little information about some of the cameras I have used for Digiscoping, and my findings. All cameras were used with a Swarovski ST80HD spotting scope fitted with a 20-60x zoom. Click the images in the results column for a larger version.

 

Nikon Coolpix 990, 995, 4500

Other cameras in the Coolpix range can be used for Digiscoping but these are the most recent three, all have the split swivel Digiscoping friendly design and all are now sadly discontinued.

 

The Coolpix 4500 is perhaps regarded as the best of the three, not least for its 4mp and 4X zoom, though the Coolpix 990 possibly gives a sharper image. The macro mode on the 4500 is excellent, as an all round and Digiscoping 4mp camera it is tuff to beat.

 

Results

Many of the digiscoped images in the main bird galleries on this site are taking using one of the three mentioned Coolpix cameras, all of which I have owned. The pictures below were taken using a Nikon Coolpix.

 

Canon Powershot A95

Discontinued. Finally a camera to challenge the Coolpix range, not only is it relatively cheap, it has 5mp and is very good indeed. The external zoom problem is easily solvable with the relevant adapters and the flip out monitor actually surpasses the Coolpix split body design since shooting is possible from more angles. Settings are simple but effective and the results are excellent. It's also small light and a good all-round camera.

 

Results

Many other cameras are suitable for Digiscoping and many are not. There is now such a massive range of Cameras, adapters and accessories available that this page cannot possibly mention them all. If you ask me to recommend a Digiscoping camera, for ease of use, clarity of images and excellent features the Canon Powershot A95 is tuff to beat. For lots of information about Digiscoping and all the different combinations available, please have a look at www.birdforum.net