The Binocular Site
The Ins and Outs of Digital Camera Binoculars
Digital camera binoculars are a revolutionary new technology for gadget-lovers. They combine a digital camera with your binoculars so you can share images of that rare bird or beautiful night sky with others.
By using these, you can keep a real record of that pivotal moment with wildlife or the winning goal at the hockey game. Bushnell offers an excellent selection in their Digital Cameras Line, including their Instant Replay Digital Binoculars with 8x magnification, and a “what you see is what you get” image.
Camera quality varies as well from model to model, with specifications usually between 1 and 4 megapixels. This variation comes out in better resolution and being able to print larger photos.
You may choose the higher end here if you intend to print large prints, whereas photos meant for your album will be clear even with few megapixels. For example, to print a high quality 300ppi, 5” by 7” photo, such as you might submit to a magazine contest, you’ll want your camera to be at least 3 megapixels. That said, you can print a decent 5” by 7” photo for your album with only 1 megapixel.
Here are some things to consider when looking for a pair of digital camera binoculars
LCD screens:
These are often included allowing you to quickly and clearly see the image as the picture is taken. These sets make moving digital pictures from the camera to your computer or printer a snap. The result is great shots that are easily ready for printing, email, or your website.
Magnifications:
Typically are available from about 7x to 10x. This range is good for regular use, although long-distance viewing such as stargazing can benefit from greater magnification.
Objective Lens Size:
Digital camera binoculars runs the gamut up to about 42mm and even 50mm. As with any binoculars, the larger the lens, the better the set will work in lower light situations such as dawn, dusk, and in darker environments like concert halls and heavily wooded forests.
There are even specialty sets for night-time viewing, whether you’re scouting at night, stargazing, or keeping an eye on the neighbors. Bushnell offers extra wide lenses perfect for when you need a large field of view (FOV) – for example, at the horse races or while watching football. The FOV in their wide angle lens is double the size offered by their classic sets, and is even available in a compact set.
Video Capabilities:
Some digital camera binoculars offer the option to record video. When you are looking to record video, be sure to check this option carefully and ask about video editing.
Often you will find software is included so you can transfer the video to your computer and edit as needed – that way you can start shooting when they start calling students with “S” names, and cut as necessary later to only include your little Smith receiving his kindergarten diploma.
Using digital camera binoculars you can catch the winning moment in your favorite car race or golf game – simply point, shoot, and edit later to share the tour-winning shot with your friends.
Memory:
Added storage is often available when you may be recording quite a bit of video or many photos. Typically about 16MB of onboard storage is included within the binoculars themselves, and the number of photos this will cover will depend on the set.
For example, taking decent photos on a 3 megapixel camera with this amount of memory may allow only about 23 to be stored. If you regularly move your photos to your computer and get rid of bad shots, this may be enough for you. However, it can be great to have a couple memory cards on hand, and they are fairly inexpensive.
If you are a serious photographer it is worth it to grab a few cards; just be sure you take a close look at which kind your camera needs.
Not only is it absolutely necessary to use a Secure Digital (SD) card if required by your binoculars, you will get the best value by choosing a memory card size that will suit your needs. Again, actual results will vary depending on the camera and card, although Lexar offers an excellent capacity chart for memory sizes and photo storage.
Other Digital Camera Features:
Although the nature of combining both a camera and binoculars may sacrifice a few of the highest-level features of both, there are specialized sets that will cover your needs.
Some digital camera binoculars feature a keypad for controlling extra camera features, so it can be worth taking the time to check out this keypad. You’ll want one that isn’t too tiny or frustrating to manipulate.
Other sets offer auto focus, allowing you to simply put the binoculars to your eyes and instantly see a crisp, clear image, without adjusting. Take the time to choose the best features for your life, and you will be making an excellent investment for years to come.
Season tickets and betting at tracks demand nothing but the best, and digital camera binoculars will take you there.
