Telephotography using SLR cameras (digital or film) and compact
system cameras. In this system the camera lens is substituted
for the telescope + telephotoadapter or telescope + eyepiece
+ photoadapter. To convert MM3 models into a telephoto lens
(MM3 50 530mm1/f.10.6, MM3 60 700mm1/f.11.7) you will need
a 40215 telephotoadapter. Alternatively connect a suitable push
fit photoadapter to your viewing eyepiece.2A T-mount is required
to connect the assembly to the camera body.
Notes. Focusing is facilitated on the telescope. Camera may need to be
operated in manual mode with shutter locks disengaged where necessary.
The high magnification to aperture ratios result in slower shutter speeds
compared with conventional telephoto lenses so choose an IS0 setting of
400. For 35mm SLRs 400 ASA film is recommended. If possible use a cable release or remote control to reduce camera shake when operating
the shutter.
1
This is an approximate figure based on 35mm SLR cameras. DSLR/compact system cameras use different sized image sensors compared to
35mm so an equivalent telephoto conversion figure must be calculated separately.
2
For information on push fit photoadapters visit our Digiscoping & Telephotography pages at www.opticron.co.uk
Digiscoping with digital compact cameras, camcorders and mobile phones
Shooting high magnification photos and video through your telescope is possible if you have a suitable camera, camcorder
or mobile phone. To find out how suitable or not your device is for digiscoping, position it up to the
viewing eyepiece and see if an image appears on the screen. You may have to position the unit a few
mm away from the eyelens of the eyepiece and increase the zoom to get a full frame image.
The most suitable cameras are those with a lens diameter of 20mm or under and zoom range no
greater than 5x. To get the best results you will also need to fit a low magnification wide angle
eyepiece to your telescope or use a zoom eyepiece set at minimum.
To find out more about bespoke digiscoping kits and universal mounts and brackets visit the Digiscoping & Telephotography pages at
www.opticron.co.uk or contact Sales on +44 (0)1582 726522.
Telephotography
Camera body
1. Telephotoadapter or
2. Photoadapter +
eyepiece (inside)
T-mount