Like any form of photography, the art of capturing high-quality images and footage through a spotting scope or other optical device can be rewarding. As long as you’re actively practicing, the rewards come in the form of images and video from great distances. It can also be a frustrating endeavor. It should come as no surprise. There are multiple variables to contend with once your optics are connected to your smartphone camera. That’s right, a strong connection like that Phone Skope’s Carbon Pro system provides is a great start. However, you still have to master steadiness in the field, even if you had a couple of cups of coffee too ma.ny.
However, once you’ve secured a custom Phone Skope adapter, it takes repetition to capture better images. Luckily, there are a few simple tips that can make for a more seamless and enjoyable day of digiscoping in the field. There is none better than simply seeking the right lighting conditions. Does this seem counterintuitive? It often is.
Lean into Shadows
We’ve all captured crisp outdoor photos with our smartphone cameras on clear days. Those bluebird skies are pretty hard to beat for the photography crowd, both accomplished and novice. However, there are downsides to bright sunny days, often resulting in blurry or sun-spotted photos. It can be frustrating. Sometimes, you might notice a partial alignment or a shadow on your screen. If this happens, simply move your phone towards the shadow. This might seem unnatural, but by “chasing the shadow,” you’ll bring the camera and lens into better alignment, resulting in a clearer image.
Fifty Shades of Gray
Bright sunlight often yields digiscoped images that are some combination of blotchy, grainy, and blurry
Admittedly, I never saw any of the movies or read any of the books. However, my digiscoping experience has taught me to not always go towards the light. I’ve learned that not only shadows, but overcast days in the fields and woodlots I roam, add a boost to my digiscoped images.
Other Thoughts
Digiscoping is a fun and powerful tool for multiple outdoor demographics. While it’s not rocket science, it takes practice. Further, the first problem to conquer is the accuracy and strength of the connection. Yes, digiscoping can be challenging, often increasing the need for more involved photographic techniques such as exposure compensation, manual focusing, and, of course, exposure image stabilization.
Luckily, the Phone Skope Carbon Pro system’s firm and custom fit greatly minimizes (and even eliminates) blurry images from the get-go, leaving more time for valuable repetition in the field. So, plan accordingly. Sometimes, less is better; less glare, less squinting, less blotchy images… and perhaps, curse words.
Photographer Bill Portlock captured this crisp image on an overcast day
Finally, another extra benefit usually occurs during summer and spring, when overcast weather means more comfortable temps. Less sweat and fatigue mean more staying power outdoors.
While it’s hard to begrudge bright sunny days, remember those days of more forgiving light can be the ticket to digiscoping greatness. Leverage it. There can never be too many reasons to get out and visually enjoy nature.