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by Mathew Malwitz · Posted
Bird-watching, known colloquially as birding, has quickly become one of the most popular past times for nature enthusiasts of all ages. In this fast-paced digital world we find ourselves in, getting outside and winding down to the sounds and sights of birds is quite therapeutic.
Every hobby has its fair share of essential gear,
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
There is nothing that can replace the extreme close-up view of a rare bird in the wild. Binoculars can get you close but, if you want to look the bird in the eye or confirm that identification for your life list, you need a spotting scope. Spotting scopes pack incredible magnification in a generally simple and lightweight package that is
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
Have the sparkling new images from the James Webb Space Telescope made you, or someone you know, want to explore the cosmos from your backyard? If the answer is “Yes!”, then you have come to the right place because B&H Photo is your one-stop shop for some great, out-of-this-world gifts and gear. Here is a quick guide to just some of the binoculars, telescopes, and other astronomical gear we have for your off-world adventures.
Binoculars
By far, the easiest tool to improve your stargazing is a good pair of
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
Many of us believe that astrophotography requires a ton of know-how plus the investment of highly specialized (and expensive) gear to create successful images. The truth is that you can capture astrophotography with any camera and any lens. But, as the saying goes, your mileage may vary.
If you already have a camera and lens, you might want to head over to my three-part series Basic Backyard
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
When it comes to bird and wildlife photography, the one word you need to know is: telephoto! If you've ever tried to approach birds or wild animals (not too close, please!) you've likely noticed they usually don't take kindly to humans and fly or scamper off before you get close enough for a photograph. The magic of the telephoto lens allows you to get "up close" without getting… up close.
For birding and wildlife, getting closer usually means using lenses with a minimum 300mm focal length. We've all seen spectacular wildlife images by top
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
What is the best lens focal length for photographing the total solar eclipse? Well, there really isn’t a correct answer to that question. There are many factors involved, so let’s outline some options for different types of cameras and budgets.
Above: The Hinode satellite X-ray telescope mission captures the January 6, 2011 solar eclipse. © JAXA/NASA.
Expedition 43 Flight Engineer Samantha Cristoforetti took a series of photographs
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
Whether it is a natural disaster or a pandemic virus, there are times when we get stuck at home for one reason or another. Some experts suggest relaxing screen time rules for youngsters, but we all know that the glowing rectangle isn't the solution for everyone, nor is it a permanent fix. For products that not only educate, but inspire, B&H Photo has what you need to engage your family, keep yourself entertained, expand horizons, and help everyone learn and grow.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education is the
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
In Part 1 of this three-part series, we discussed the advantages of using binoculars for astronomical viewing of the night sky and we talked about the different types of targets you can enjoy on clear, dark nights. At the conclusion of each section, I mentioned “binocular magnification considerations.” Here, we will get into that subject, as well as other characteristics of binoculars that make them better, or worse, for studying the stars. Then, in
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
When the inner planets, Mercury and Venus, pass between Earth and the Sun, it is known as a “planetary transit.” While not as visually spectacular as a solar eclipse, the transit of our inner solar system’s neighbors is a remarkable sight to viewers on Earth. Unfortunately, these events are not visible to the naked eye, so let’s discuss what gear is recommended for photographing and viewing the transits.
Astronomical images NASA/JPL
Before you invest in solar viewing optics, please know that these transit events are rare.
by Todd Vorenkamp · Posted
A few times over the past year, I have met people who, when they had a youngster express interest in astronomy, rushed out to B&H Photo to purchase the family a telescope. In a few of these anecdotes, the telescope saw limited initial use and then it was simply incorporated into the home’s décor—gathering dust in a corner. It became obvious to me that what the family could have benefited from more would have been a