I do use both DSLR and digiscoping for bird and wildlife photography though rarely together, there is only so much kit I can carry around at one time. Digiscoping with a DSLR is possible though my experience is that you need far more light than with the usual P&S style cameras, this can be overcome to an extent by using higher ISO settings and noise levels at higher ISO’s are getting lower with every new camera. Results can be good but for me it took a lot more effort than with the usual methods and cameras. For now at least I will be sticking with my P&S style cameras for digiscoping. There are some interesting developments happening in this area though with high magnification digiscoped flight shots becoming achievable.

Starling
Digiscoped using a Nikon Coolpix P5000

Copyright © Richard Ford - www.Digitalwildlife.co.uk

15. In Which situations you would use which set-up for wildlife and bird photography; digiscoping or DSLR?

Digiscoping is a high power form of photography, which I think is best used in a casual manner. I would take out the digiscoping setup and walk around a nature reserve taking advantage of whatever subjects are available, you don’t need to get as close so you don’t need to worry so much about field craft and being conspicuous to your subjects. You can often get close enough for a good image and still be at a distance where they are comfortable to continue feeding singing or whatever. I think DSLR photography takes more planning. I may set up a hide or attempt to go for a specific picture or subject.
I have taken a lot of Macro images over the last couple of years, some thing that many of the digiscoping cameras can manage quite well, the Coolpix 4500 if a well-respected camera in this respect. But a DSLR and a good macro lens can transport you into a new world you’ll discover on your hands and knees.

16. They say digiscoping is a weak practice when flight photography and avian subjects comes into account, how do you overcome this issue and what are your suggestions?

Digiscoping birds in flight with the digiscoping gear I have is near impossible, there are a few chances of course like a hovering kestrel which may stay still long enough for a shot, and those that are experimenting with DSLR digiscoping are managing flight shot as well. Really however this is the domain of the DSLR and a telephoto lens. Flight photography is not something I have done a lot of, but is a challenge I am looking forward to getting my teeth into. That’s what I love about this hobby, there is always a new avenue to explore, and always something to photograph, be it in your garden at a local nature reserve or abroad.

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