Spotting Scopes

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
It is time to view the stars with a friend or loved one who has their eye on a brand new telescope to bring the heavens closer to home. But, when you log into the B&H Photo website, the sheer number of telescopes—not to mention their different configurations, dizzying specifications, and wildly different prices—leaves you with more questions than answers. In this guide, we will attempt to boil things down to a
by Todd Vorenkamp ·Posted
A few things happen when you look through a pair of binoculars, a spotting scope, or a telescope. The first thing that happens when you see awesomeness is you think, sometimes out loud, "Wow!" The next thing that happens is that you want to share what you are seeing with others—this
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
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
by Todd Vorenkamp ·Posted
Before I reveal my deep love for the Leica APO-Televid 77 spotting scope, I wish to tell you all that I am not easily enamored with every item that B&H Photo sells, adorned with the famous “Red Dot” of Leica. That addiction afflicts my father (and many others), but not I. I do own two Leica lenses—my architectural workhorse, the 1980s vintage 28mm f/2.8 PC Super Angulon R (made by Schneider) and a 1970s vintage 35mm f/2 Summicron (made in
by Christopher Witt ·Posted
Power meets portability with Kowa’s new line of TSN-5 spotting scopes. Available in 20-40x50mm and 15-45x55mm options, with straight-through or angled viewing, they will quickly become a standard item in your birdwatching, hunting, or range kit. Choose straight-through
by Christopher Witt ·Posted
A great deal of mystery and misconception surround the topic of observing the sun and solar eclipses, and while you should absolutely not look directly at the sun without proper protection, we here at B&H have got you covered on how to enjoy viewing the sun and, later this year, the solar eclipse. Read on to see what’s available for you, if you’re interested in investing in a dedicated solar telescope. White Light or Narrow Band? Right out of the gate, you need to decide: White light or Narrow-band (Targeted) viewing? For specifics about
5,100 Views ·Posted
In this video, photographer David Flores explains how to capture photos through a spotting scope with a smartphone—a process known as digiscoping. Using the 20-60x80mm Vanguard Endeavor XF and the Carson HookUpz smartphone adapter, Flores explains the features and benefits of the Endeavor and how, when
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 Joshua Kleiner ·Posted
No matter how experienced the bird watcher in your life may be, there is almost certainly something missing from that person’s rig. Whether it’s a new set of compact glass or an accessory to round out their bag of tricks, this is a gift opportunity that should not to be missed. This year, instead of giving your friend or family member a gigantic tin of flavored popcorn, give them a gift that will enhance their birding experience for years to come. We have compiled a list that includes some of our favorite optics and accessories. Below, you