Best overall		Canon 10×42 L Image Stabilization Waterproof Binoculars		SEE IT
Best marine binoculars		Fujinon TS-X 1440 14×40		SEE IT
Best for astronomy		Canon 18×50 IS All Weather		SEE IT

Just like in the camera world, image-stabilized binoculars allow users to view over very long distances without nauseating shake ruining the experience. Oftentimes, a regular pair of binoculars will get the job done with minimal fuss, especially if you know some good hand holding techniques or have a tripod. But sometimes, you don’t want to have the extra gear on you, and a handheld setup won’t cut it. The fact is, there are times when image stabilization is borderline necessary to get the job done. When that’s the case, the best image stabilized binoculars will help you see clearer with less work on your part.

• Best overall: Canon 10×42 L Image Stabilization Waterproof Binoculars  
• Best marine binoculars: Fujinon TS-X 1440 14×40
• Best for astronomy: Canon 18×50 IS All Weather
• Best for hunting: Sig Sauer ZULU6 10×30
• Best for birding: Swarvoski Optiks SLC 15×56

How we picked the best image stabilized binoculars

Because of their specific uses and complexity, manufacturers still prefer to invest in standard binoculars. That means that a lot of the technology we looked at has been around for some time. The one exception is the Fujinon 1440 14×40, which outshines the competition with 6 degrees of vibration correction. In order to clearly identify the best of the best in image stabilized binoculars, we looked at battery life, twilight coefficient, field of view, vibration correction, weight, and magnification power, all as important factors. 

Image stabilized binoculars are a hefty investment, so we understand why you would want to do thorough research when determining which is the right pair for you. Whether you’re in the marine industry, an avid hunter, an astronomer, or someone who simply enjoys a nice day of bird watching, we did our best to ensure that there is a pair of binoculars in our list of image stabilized binoculars for you. 

The best image stabilized binoculars: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Canon 10×42 L Image Stabilization Waterproof Binoculars

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Why it made the cut: When choosing the best overall image stabilized binoculars, we wanted a pair that covered a wide range of activities since image stabilized binoculars can be a hefty investment. That’s where the Canon 10×42 L IS WP fits the bill.

Specs:

• Magnification: 10x
• Field of view: 6.2 degrees
• Twilight coefficient: 20.49
• Waterproofing: IPX4

Pros:

• Great magnification for multi-use
• Ultrafine focus manipulation
• Screw adjusting eyecups

Cons:

• Have to hold the stabilization button while in use

10×42 is the perfect magnification level for anyone looking for a pair of binoculars that will do it all. From birding to ball games and hunting, Canon made one of the best all-around binoculars. Since image stabilized binoculars often come with a price tag comparable to a used sedan, having a robust pair that suits all needs can be extremely desirable. 

The large focus throw on these optics makes it super easy to make ultrafine adjustments, ensuring you will have the sharpest image possible. Another feature that adds to the overall experience is the screw-adjusting eyecups. Simply turn the eye cup clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust to the desired depth to help you see the entire picture. 

The only drawback we found with the Canon 10×42 L IS WP is that you have to continuously hold down the IS button for powered image stabilization. While it wasn’t a large inconvenience, it took some time to get used to and detracted from the overall experience. 

Best marine binoculars: Fujinon TS-X 1440 14×40

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Why it made the cut: Marine environments are demanding of any piece of equipment utilized in these locations. The Fujinon TS-X 1440 stands up to this test and outshines its competitors with superior performance making.

Specs:

• Magnification: 14x
• Field of view: 4 degrees
• Twilight coefficient: 23.66
• Waterproofing: IPX7
• Weight: 2.9 pounds

Pros:

• Floats in water
• Highest degree of vibration correction in the industry
• Low image lag

Cons:

• Heavy

Offering up to ±6 degrees of vibration correction, the Fujinon TS-X 1440 has achieved a level of unprecedented image stabilization. Holding binoculars steady on solid land can be hard enough but is next to impossible on a moving boat. The high level of image stabilization will be very beneficial as a result. 

With a waterproofing rating of IPX7, the Fujinon TS-X 1440 make a fantastic choice for anyone needing high-performance binoculars in marine environments. And on top of being waterproof, they float in the water. So if you should get knocked by a rogue wave and drop the binoculars in the water, you’ll have a chance at retrieving them instead of watching them sink to the bottom of the ocean. 

Whether spotting other vessels, whale watching, or scanning the horizon for potential hazards, the Fujinon Stabi series of binoculars have been the preferred choice in image stabilized binoculars for many mariners for many years.

Best for astronomy: Canon 18×50 IS All Weather

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Why it made the cut: Canon is well known for bringing superb imaging technology to the professional & prosumer markets for decades. Utilizing the same technology built into their flagship L series lenses, the Canon IS series of binoculars offer great image quality and an ideal level of magnification for astronomy.

Specs:

• Magnification: 18x
• Field of view: 3.7 degrees
• Twilight coefficient: 30
• Waterproofing: Water-resistant (not suited for submersion)
• Weight: 2.6 pounds

Pros:

• Long magnification range
• Near silent image stabilization
• 3/8 tripod socket

Cons:

• Weatherproofing could be better

The Canon 18×50 IS binoculars offer a long magnification range with an outstanding twilight coefficient. These are important factors to astronomers who utilize handheld imaging equipment while looking at the night sky. In addition, with the included 3/8 tripod mount, the Canon 18×50 IS binoculars have the ability to be quickly mounted to an auxiliary tripod when other imaging equipment is in use. 

The Canon IS series of binoculars are water-resistant, helping them stand up to rigorous use in all environments. However, they are not able to stand up to being fully submerged in water. As a result, you will have to take some care with them in wet locations. Luckily, if you are stargazing, you are dealing with clear skies, so the lower level of weather-sealing shouldn’t be a problem. 

Best for hunting: Sig Sauer ZULU6 10×30

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Why it made the cut: The ZULU6 10×30 allows hunters to identify game at long distances without sacrificing weight or portability. 

Specs:

• Magnification: 10x
• Field of view: 5.2 degrees
• Twilight coefficient: 17.3
• Waterproofing: IPX4
• Weight: 1.2 pounds

Pros:

• Lightest binoculars in its class
• Compact form factor
• Impressive battery life

Cons:

• Included carrying case could be better

The ZULU6 from Sig Sauer is the image stabilized version of its already popular ZULU lineup. With its two-axis image stabilization gimbal system, the ZULU6 offers the same level of stabilization as a mounted spotting scope in a compact and portable form factor. 

They weigh just 1.3 pounds, which is lighter than any other option on our list. So if you like to go light and fast on your hunts, these will meet your needs. Additionally, the lenses have abrasion-resistant coatings for better protection, even while walking through heavy brush. 

With a waterproof rating of IPX4, the ZULU6 series of binoculars are ready for any hunt in any weather condition. These binoculars will hold up even if you get caught in a torrential downpour or epic snowstorm. 

Best for birding: Swarvoski SLC 15×56

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Why it made the cut: Image stabilization with the 15x magnification and a large effective objective lens diameter make the Swarvoski SLC 15×56 ideal for birders. 

Specs:

• Magnification: 15x
• Field of view: 4.5 degrees
• Twilight coefficient: 29
• Waterproofing: Not listed
• Weight: 2.6 pounds

Pros:

• Clear, bright image
• 3/8 tripod mount
• Ergonomic

Cons:

• Heavy for single handed use
• Pricey

The Swarvoski SLC series of image stabilized binoculars boast a 93% light transmission allowing for superior image quality and detail retention. So when wildlife becomes more active late in the day, the Swarvoski SLC 15×56 make an excellent choice for observing these shy creatures in their natural habitat undisturbed. 

With its ergonomic design, the SLC series brings image stabilization in a form factor that will combat fatigue, making long periods of bird watching a more enjoyable experience. These are not cheap binoculars by any means. It will be an investment to purchase them, but you’ll also get great quality, a lifetime warranty for the optics, and a ten-year warranty for other parts. 

Things to consider when looking for the best image stabilized binoculars

What do the numbers mean on binoculars?

When you start to look around at binoculars–image stabilized or not–you’ll notice two numbers in the name of every pair. Those numbers provide two key specs upfront that will help you make your decision. The first number refers to the magnification. The second tells you the diameter of the two objective lenses–or the lenses closest to your subject–within the binoculars, measured in millimeters.

So, for example, the Canon 18×50 IL All Weather binoculars have a magnification of 18x, and the objective lenses are 50mm. 

Objective lens size

As mentioned, the objective lens size refers to the diameter of the lens closest to your subject (at the very front of the binoculars). A larger objective lens will let in more light, resulting in a brighter image. For general purpose use, 30-50mm is plenty. But, if you plan to be hunting at dusk or dawn or want to use your binoculars for stargazing, look for something over 50mm. They get heavier as you increase objective lens size, though, so it is a bit of a balancing act. 

Magnification

Where image stabilized binoculars really come into their own is at longer magnifications. As you increase magnification, holding standard binoculars by hand becomes progressively more difficult. However, through gyroscopic, electrical, or mechanical image stabilization, binoculars can push the limits of usable sight magnification to levels beyond the capabilities of traditional hand holding techniques.

The magnification you need will depend on how you plan to use your binoculars. For hunting, a magnification of around 8-10x will be ideal for most situations. You won’t want much higher because the field of view gets narrower as you get into higher magnifications. That means you will have less chance of catching wildlife moving across a vast landscape since you’re seeing such a tiny sliver. For stargazing, a subject where the field of view isn’t as important, look for a magnification between 10-20x. 

Twilight coefficient

The twilight coefficient is a number used to express the amount of light a pair of binoculars allows to pass through. To put it simply, the more light that is available through the viewfinder, the brighter and clearer the image output of the binoculars. To determine the twilight coefficient of a pair of binoculars, calculate the square root of the magnification level multiplied by the available aperture of the objective lens. While this number isn’t perfect as other factors, such as lens coatings, can alter the transmission of light, it is a good starting point to determine how bright your final image will be.

Field of view 

Manufacturers often measure field of view in one of two ways. For this article, we will be referring to the angular field of view. That means that out of the 360 degrees, your angular field of view is the span of view you will be able to see through the lenses. 

Another popular way of measuring field of view is based on the distance visible at 1000 yards or meters. For example, you may see a field of view measurement of 331 feet at 1000 yards. This measurement tells us that at 1000 yards, we can expect to see 331 feet across. 

Water, dust, and fog proofing

Knowing the environment where you intend to use your image stabilized binoculars will help you decide what type of weatherproofing is necessary. For example, marine environments can experience conditions that change from as flat as glass to turbulent and treacherous in a matter of moments. In those situations, it is important that your optics can hold up despite the harshest conditions. Look for a fully waterproof pair if you will be using your binoculars in such locations. An IPX rating of 7 or greater implies waterproofing capable of full submersion for a period of time.

Even while hunting or star gazing, rapid changes in ambient temperature can impact humidity levels and damage optics ill-suited for the task at hand. You may not need fully waterproof binoculars, but at minimum, a water-resistant set will be helpful. Fog proof binoculars will also be helpful in such environments.

Weight

Image stabilized binoculars are notoriously bulkier in size and weight. Depending on the method of stabilization used, some binoculars can be cumbersome if sustained use is necessary. Consider using an alternative harness for larger equipment or, when applicable, a tripod mount to relieve the strain. In situations where your binoculars need to be close at hand throughout the day, a lightweight and portable pair of optics might be the deciding factor in your purchasing decision.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best image stabilized binoculars

• Best overall: Canon 10×42 L Image Stabilization Waterproof Binoculars  
• Best marine binoculars: Fujinon TS-X 1440 14×40
• Best for astronomy: Canon 18×50 IS All Weather
• Best for hunting: Sig Sauer ZULU6 10×30
• Best for birding: Swarvoski Optiks SLC 15×56

In this article, we had the opportunity to look at a wide variety of image stabilized binoculars. While each one performed the same basic function, the binoculars we reviewed each had unique features that set them apart from the others.

Related: Best binoculars for astronomy

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best image-stabilized binoculars for 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Leica Monovid 8×20		SEE IT
Best for stargazing		Celestron Outland X 20×50		SEE IT
Best for hunting		Vortex Solo RT 8×36 9		SEE IT

When looking for the best option in field optics, there are many reasons why someone would choose a monocular over binoculars as their go-to piece of glass. In this guide, we reviewed several monoculars and put forth our picks for the best monoculars. 

While every monocular is suitable for most tasks, some are better suited for a particular use. For instance, a monocular with a higher twilight coefficient will be best for stargazing. On the other hand, a monocular with higher magnification will command its place as the best for hunting. No matter what your needs, the best monoculars will be up for the task

• Best overall: Leica Monovid 8×20
• Best for stargazing: Celestron Outland X 20×50
• Best for hunting: Vortex Solo RT 8×36
• Best for bird watching: Bushnell Legend Ultra 10×42
• Best for cell phones: Celestron Outland X 12×50  

How we picked the best monoculars

Throughout our review process, the physical features we evaluated include image definition, build quality, magnification power, and light coefficients to determine the best monoculars. In addition to those qualities, we also took into account the various environments and tasks each tool would be used to help you determine which monocular is right for you. Perhaps one of our favorite tests in this entire article of monocular reviews was where we took our monoculars out to the field to shoot the night sky with our cellphones.

With many available options for monoculars, it can be difficult to determine which optics are the best choice to build quality. For this reason, we covered reputable manufacturers with a proven track record of offering high-quality monoculars. So the next time you find yourself in the market for a monocular for hunting, birding, star gazing, or even taking pictures with your cell phone, this article can be your guide for selecting the most powerful monocular. 

The best monoculars: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Leica Monovid 8×20

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Why it made the cut: When it comes down to sheer versatility, the Leica Monovid 8×20 stood out in a class of its own. It’s also waterproof and is one of the smallest and lightest on the market.

Key features:

• Magnification: 8x
• Field of View: 6.3 degrees
• Twilight Coefficient: 12.6
• Weight: 4 ounces

Pros

• Works well for a variety of activities
• Lightweight and compact
• Includes a macro lens attachment
• Durable build

Cons

• Pricey

The Leica Monovid is a tiny monocular, measuring only 1.4 x 3.85 x 1.4 inches. However, even with its slim form factor, this little tool doesn’t skimp on any of the features it provides. With a magnification of 8x, this monocular is very well suited for everyday use for general magnification. Other monoculars you will come across on this list are specialized in what purpose they serve, which makes them great in those categories but provide a less-than-desirable experience in other situations. It also comes with a macro lens attachment, making it even more versatile.

Coming in at a staggering 4 ounces, carrying this monocular all day long will be no problem at all. In fact, you might even forget it’s even there. The fact that you can have such superb image quality in such a small package is outstanding.

The only drawback we had with this monocular is the same heartbreak we experience time and time again as photographers. As with all things Leica, the Monovid carries a price tag in line with the brand’s reputation, which may price out anyone looking for a more budget-friendly solution. But, it is waterproof to 16.5 feet and fog proof, making it a durable piece of equipment that will last. 

Best for stargazing: Celestron Outland X 20×50

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Why it made the cut: It has a high twilight coefficient and magnification, helping pick up light from even the most distant celestial bodies, making it an excellent choice for stargazing.

Key features:

• Magnification: 20x
• Field of View: 2.9 degrees
• Twilight Coefficient: 31.6
• Weight: 15 ounces

Pros

• High twilight coefficient
• Tripod included
• Includes a cell phone mount
• High magnification level

Cons

• Bulky

Whether it’s camera lenses, binoculars, telescopes, or monoculars, big glass usually means one thing, the ability to bring in lots of light. We are glad to report that the same assumption holds true here. If a twilight coefficient of 20 is considered average, then the Celestron Outland X is the heavyweight, coming in at an astounding 31.6. With a twilight coefficient that high, this monocular produces spectacular images of whichever subject in the night sky you decide to point it at.

As if that wasn’t enough, Celestron sweetens the package by including a few accessories with your purchase. While certainly not the best quality, the included tripod and cell phone mount opens up a whole playground of possibilities right out of the box. So once you’ve had fun panning across the sky, challenge yourself to take photos of those stars and planets with ease by attaching this mini telescope to your cell phone’s camera.

There is a price to pay for all of this glass, though. No, not the price that comes out of your pocket. With a large objective lens, this monocular is one of the largest on the market. It measures 7.5 x 4.6 x 3.5 inches and weighs almost a pound. So, if size is important in your purchasing decision, you may want to think twice when picking this one up. But, if the size is no issue, then the Celestron Outland X 20×50 brings worlds of discovery possibilities to your hands. Pun fully intended.

Best for hunting: Vortex Solo RT 8×36

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Why it made the cut: When it comes to hunting, lightweight and feature-rich equipment are key factors in standing out amongst the competition. The Vortex Solo RT 8×36 was specifically built with this purpose in mind.

Key features:

• Magnification: 8x
• Field of View: 7.5 degrees
• Twilight Coefficient: 17
• Weight: 10.2 ounces

Pros

• Lightweight
• Rangefinder Capabilities
• Rugged Build

Cons

• Magnification could be higher

Hunting is an activity that requires hunters to carry an extensive array of gear for a day in the field. Ask any hunter to dump their pack on the ground, and the amount of gear that will come out would surprise you. That’s why anyone serious about hunting seeks out equipment that is lightweight and built like a tank. At only 10.2 ounces, the Vortex Solo RT is a small, lightweight tool that will easily find a home in any hunter’s day pack.

As a bonus, Vortex managed to build a basic rangefinder reticle in the sight picture of this monocular. While minuscule to some, this feature is a massive addition for hunters actively chasing game over long distances. Glassing sessions will be much more efficient as a result. 

It seems as if Vortex took every small detail into account in the design of this monocular. For example, even the eyecup is specially formed to surround the eye socket to block out the midday sun, allowing users to focus on glassing instead of fighting intrusive light.

While a magnification of 8x is perfect for general use, we do wish the RT series of the Solo line had an offering with a higher magnification power. It likely isn’t a big deal for most users, but the option to bump up in power would be nice since you can have this monocular at such an affordable price.

Best for bird watching: Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10×42

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Why it made the cut: Mid-range magnification, a large objective lens, and a clear image provide an enjoyable birdwatching experience with this monocular.

Key features:

• Magnification: 10x
• Field of View: 6.5 degrees
• Twilight Coefficient: 20.5
• Weight: 13.2 ounces

Pros

• Excellent image quality
• Has an attached, convenient carrying clip
• Compatible with tripod use

Cons

• Lens cap can be loud

Bird watching is a fun, leisurely sport enjoyed by many. And similarly to their subjects, bird watchers have a wide list of expectations from their equipment. So whether you are an enthusiast who enjoys bird watching while hiking or an enthusiast who plans their day around bird watching, this monocular has something for you.

Firstly, a bright clear image is paramount when observing our feathered friends. With an objective element of 42mm, this monocular has no problem producing a bright and clear image. It’s not the lightest monocular on this list. But it is very impressive that Bushnell was capable of putting that much glass into the Legend Ultra HD and keeping it relatively slim.

If birdwatching is a secondary activity while enjoying the outdoors, then the attached carry clip is an excellent addition. It allows you to keep your monocular close at hand for when you are ready to use it. Or, if your bird watching requires you are stationary for longer periods, Bushnell built in a tripod mount for the option of added stability.

With any activity involving observing wildlife, stealth is a crucial requirement for success. This is where the biggest gripe we have with Bushnell comes into play. The Legend Ultra HD comes with a plastic lens cover, which is not a big deal with any other activity. However, when trying to be as quiet as possible, any false move with this lens cap, and you’ll have quite the racket on your hands.

Best for cell phones: Celestron Outland X 12×50

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Why it made the cut: Monoculars have become a popular tool for taking photos at distance with cell phones. Celestron developed the Outland X 12×50 with an accessory package specifically for such use, earning its spot as the best monocular for cell phones.

Key features

• Magnification: 12x
• Field of View: 4.7
• Twilight Coefficient: 24.5
• Weight: 14.8 ounces

Pros

• Comes with a cell phone accessory package
• Affordable price
• Bright image helps phone imaging sensors

Cons

• Eye caps are easy to lose

Cell phone cameras have come a long way since the days of flip phones and T9 predictive texting. These imaging powerhouses have opened a plethora of opportunities for taking pictures, allowing the everyday user to capture life’s moments easily. And people haven’t stopped pushing the envelope of what’s possible, which is how monoculars have seen a resurgence in the market. Cellphone users have discovered that pairing their phones with a quality monocular provides new possibilities without sacrificing image quality.

Celestron saw this trend and provided a product specifically for smartphone users in their Outland X 12×50 package. Outside of the exceptional monocular, the phone accessories included with it ensure that anyone purchasing this product will have everything they need right out of the box. A tripod, a Bluetooth remote for hands-free operation, and a cellphone mount that puts your phone’s camera in line with the viewing element give you all the tools you need to start taking telephoto images with your phone immediately. 

The best part is that this whole package is still at a very affordable price. Even with such a fantastic price point, Celestron didn’t overlook features important to cell phone users. With their tiny sensors, cell phones are notorious for needing lots of light to take a decent picture. Celestron put the same 50mm objective element on every Outland X series of monocular, which is wide enough to flood your phone’s camera with all the light it needs.

If you purchase this monocular, we do hope that you don’t share one of the same qualities that plague several of us here at PopPhoto. If so, we recommend storing your lens caps in the provided storage case or purchasing a lanyard. If there were a tally for every time one of us had to buy a replacement lens cap, we would need a new whiteboard. Unfortunately, a lanyard that attaches the lens cap to the monocular was not included. However, if you buy one separately, there is a small rubber loop for this feature to prevent losing your lens cap.

Things to consider when purchasing the best monoculars

Magnification

If you are bird-watching, hunting, or stargazing, magnification plays a huge role in determining which optic is best for you. While higher magnification means you can get a closer view of your subject, finding the right balance of usability and magnification is crucial to having an enjoyable experience. 

The higher your magnification level, the harder it becomes to handhold. This is because at higher magnifications, every vibration, whether it be wind or even vibration from shaky hands, is multiplied at the same strength. A magnification of 8x or 10x is recommended for starting with handheld monoculars. But with good stabilization techniques, 12x or even 15x can be completely usable. And, you can always get a tripod to mount your monocular to for more stability. 

Twilight Coefficient

Put simply, the twilight coefficient tells you how well a monocular will perform in low light conditions. A higher twilight coefficient means the monocular can pick up more light, allowing you to see more detail in low light. 

To determine the twilight coefficient, multiply the lens magnification by the size of the objective lens (in mm) and then calculate the square root of that result. This number doesn’t take factors such as lens coatings into account, which can alter the transmission of light, but it is a good starting point to determine how much detail you’ll be able to pick up with minimal light.

Field of view

There are two ways that manufacturers measure and refer to field of view. In this article, we will be using the angular field of view. Angular field of view means that out of the full 360 degrees, your angular field of view is the area you will be able to see through the lenses.

The other field of view measurement is based on the distance visible at 1000 yards or meters. For example, you may see a field of view stated as 450 feet at 1000 yards. This measurement tells you that at 1000 yards, you can expect to see 450 feet across.

Waterproofing

Different environments will require different levels of weatherproofing. For example, if you plan on bringing your monoculars on boating adventures, you’ll want full waterproofing just in case they fall overboard, or you’re dealing with crashing waves. But, if you are in a desert environment, waterproofing may not matter as much. 

Another feature to look for is fog proofing. Humidity levels can change significantly at dawn, dusk, and overnight, so if you are out during those times, having a pair that can resist fogging up will be helpful.

Weight

In instances where every piece of gear must adhere to strict weight restrictions, many users will opt for a good monocular. For example, some hunting trips can take you well into the backcountry, and lugging around a heavy pair of binoculars could mean going over your ideal weight leading to neck and back pain over extended treks. For this reason alone, purchasing a good monocular can reduce the overall weight of your field optics by half, saving you valuable space and weight.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best monoculars

After reviewing several brands, models, and styles of monoculars, these were our top-rated monoculars. Even though how you use your monocular will somewhat determine how it performs, we are confident that you will find an optic perfect for your needs in our monocular reviews.

Related: Best telescopes for beginners

The post The best monoculars in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Cotton Carrier 3G Binocular & Camera Harness		SEE IT
Best shoulder harness		Zeiss Comfort Carry Harness		SEE IT
Best chest harness		SITKA Mountain Optics Harness		SEE IT

As a responsible field optics owner, you understand that protection and quick access are paramount in deciding what the best binocular harnesses are for you. When it comes to carrying, storing, and utilizing your optics in the field, there are a plethora of choices on the market to pair with your favorite pair of binoculars or rangefinder. The sheer number of options makes choosing the right fit challenging without spending time and money on solutions that may not work. 

While testing these harnesses, we specifically addressed their capabilities depending on which need they adequately fulfill. So whether you need a harness to reduce neck fatigue, to compliment your entire kit, for bow hunting, or a modular harness with tons of storage for a day of bird watching, there is something on this list that will work for you. After rigorous testing, here are the best binocular harnesses to suit your needs.

• Best overall: Cotton Carrier 3G Binocular & Camera Harness
• Best shoulder harness: Zeiss Comfort Carry Harness
• Best chest harness: SITKA Mountain Optics Harness
• Best for birding: Badlands Bino XR
• Best for bowhunting: Kuiu Pro Bino Harness

How we picked the best binocular harnesses

When reviewing our choices for the best binocular harnesses, we observed a lot of crossover between the available products. With this in mind, though, some very clear winners in our picks allowed us to award that particular product the best of its class. Storage and the ability to be modular were the top two key features when assessing the best fit for each harness, as that is where they started to become more specialized in what they have to offer.

Narrowing down which harness will be best for you can be a tedious task, especially since there is a lot of overlap in features and benefits in all of the offerings on the market. This list of binocular harness reviews aims to educate you on all the decisions you need to make to choose the right fit for you. Regardless of how you intend to use your equipment or if you want to avoid aches and pains, we are confident that there is a harness on this list for everyone.

The best binocular harnesses: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Cotton Carrier 3G Binocular & Camera Harness

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Why it made the cut: The Cotton Carrier 3G Harness was the easiest to use, most comfortable, modular chest harness for carrying binoculars and other imaging equipment.

Specs:

• Colors: Realtree Xtra Camo, Grey
• Binocular capacity: Up to 2
• Style: Chest harness with side holster
• Additional features: Quick release, removable side holster, rain cover

Pros:

• Highly modular
• Versatility for cameras and binoculars
• Fastest quick release

Cons:

• Lack of storage without purchasing separate accessories

Cotton Carrier put a lot of thought into creating a platform for carrying outdoor enthusiasts who want to carry multiple imaging devices. The resulting G3 Binocular & Camera Harness is a versatile system that allows users to utilize the harness to accommodate their needs.

To take full advantage of the harness straight out of the box, you will need a 3/8 tripod screw receiver. Then, simply attach the camera hub to the tripod screw receiver with the provided hardware. The twist and lock carrying system makes this harness very easy to use. It’s designed to securely hold your gear close to your body, eliminating the possibility of damage from your equipment swinging around on a strap. It also allows for quick and easy detachment by turning your binoculars and sliding them out of the holster.

With the G3 Binocular & Camera Harness, you have two quick-release mounting points located on the chest and hip. These allow you to carry up to two pieces of imaging equipment at once. It’s no secret that we at Pop Photo love our cameras which makes this harness a clear winner in our eyes. And should you have a day that you only want one piece of equipment, the hip holster is removable.

With all that in mind, though, there is one area this harness left us wanting a bit more. The lack of additional storage was a bit disappointing. While there are two stash pockets on the front and back of the harness, the front was a bit too small for practical use. And the back is no more than a mesh storage area. Neither pocket zips up, so they aren’t very secure. Luckily, Cotton Carrier provides a selection of accessories you can purchase separately, and its dry bag accessory addresses this issue.

Best shoulder harness: Zeiss Comfort Carry Harness

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Why it made the cut: The Zeiss Comfort Carry Harness sets out to provide an alternative solution to the traditional neck strap for users looking for a minimalist way of carrying heavier optics for extended periods.

Specs:

• Colors: Black
• Binocular capacity: 1
• Style: Shoulder harness
• Additional features: Quick release

Pros:

• Comfortable
• Minimalist design
• Eliminates neck fatigue

Cons:

• Pricy for lack of additional features

One of the biggest problems with larger or even image-stabilized binoculars is their weight. When you have a ton of technology packed into a rigid magnesium alloy subframe, a long-range pair of binoculars can pack on the pounds.

Zeiss addresses this problem with its Comfort Carry Harness. It offers a system that moves the load-bearing responsibility from your neck to your shoulders. Transferring that weight to your shoulders greatly increases the amount of time you can spend in the field without muscle fatigue. Using a traditional neck strap can create a very unpleasant ache after a long day with your equipment hanging around your neck. By sharing the load between both shoulders, no one muscle group is responsible for bearing the weight throughout the day.

The price of the Comfort Carry Harness did come as a bit of a surprise, especially with the lack of extra features. It is more affordable than a robust chest harness, but it has no additional options for storage or any modularity. Though if minimalism and reduced neck fatigue are your primary requirements when considering purchasing a quality binocular harness, then the build quality of the Zeiss Comfort Carry Harness will leave you pleased with your decision.

Best chest harness: SITKA Mountain Optics Harness

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Why it made the cut: The SITKA Mountain Optics Harness is a highly modular system that provides a ton of storage, making it our go-to option for people specifically looking for a binocular/rangefinder chest harness.

Specs:

• Colors: Optifade Subalpine Camo, Optifade Open Country Camo, Pyrite
• Binocular storage: Up to 3
• Style: Chest harness
• Additional features: Molle straps, lens cloth, quiet magnetic flap opening, quick release

 Pros:

• Molle compatible chassis
• Large storage capacity
• Silent magnetic accessibility
• Very modular

Cons:

• Can feel bulky to new users

SITKA is a leader in outdoor gear, and the Mountain Optics Harness is no exception. It outfitted the Mountain Optics Harness with three large storage compartments. You’ll be able to keep all the equipment that you need close at hand. The largest front pouch is designed for binocular storage. It features a magnetic clasp that allows quick and quiet access to your binoculars at a moment’s notice. The additional two storage pouches are big enough for a smaller pair of binoculars, rangefinder, GPS, cell phone, or any other gear you decide to take with you.

If you don’t need all the additional storage on your trek, they easily detach from the system’s MOLLE strap system, cutting down on weight and bulk. What puts this harness in a class of its own is the utilization of the MOLLE straps for expandability. While other systems use a more proprietary method of adding on attachments, SITKA allows its users to customize their harness with any MOLLE-compatible accessories.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to have a system this feature-rich without a drawback here and there. The biggest issue we had with this platform was the sheer bulk. If you are not accustomed to using chest harnesses or having gear mounted in front of you, it can feel cumbersome and in the way at times. If this is the case for you, start by using the harness without the additional storage pockets until you are more comfortable, then add your accessories as you see fit.

Best for birding: Badlands Bino XR

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Why it made the cut: To make a day of birding an enjoyable experience, a harness system that can carry multiple pieces of gear and other necessities is a must, which is why the Badlands Bino XR is our choice for best binocular harnesses for birding.

Specs:

• Colors: Approach Camo, Approach FX Camo, Mud
• Binocular capacity: 1
• Style: Chest Harness
• Additional features: XL binocular capacity, side and rear storage, rain cover

 Pros:

• Plenty of storage
• Accommodates large binoculars
• Magnetic entry system

Cons:

• Pricey

When it comes to bird watching, certain species seem more elusive than most, which means large, powerful binoculars are integral during your exploration. The problem is that the larger the binoculars, the harder they are to store in a fully enclosed system. Badlands tackled this problem head-on with their Bino XR system. The main storage compartment is large enough to take on large binoculars and an additional rangefinder or monocular. With reinforced shoulder straps, the added weight from the binoculars is supported evenly across your shoulders, helping to reduce muscle fatigue throughout the day.

The integrated side pockets and rear storage are what set this apart from other offerings. Since binoculars with a high magnification have such a narrow field of view, it is often ideal to bring along an additional monocular for glassing purposes. Since this storage is integrated with the main storage compartment, you won’t have to sacrifice space for delicious snacks and other necessities.

Price can be a hindrance for someone just getting started with a chest binocular harness. Fortunately, Badlands offers the same system in the slightly more affordable Bino X. It comes without the rangefinder or monocular storage compartment, which lowers the price to something a little easier to digest.

Best for bowhunting: Kuiu Pro Bino Harness

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Why it made the cut: The most annoying aspect of bowhunting with gear, especially chest-mounted, is the propensity of the path of travel of your bowstring crossing over your chest harness. Kuiu nailed this problem with their Pro Bino Harness, which firmly earns its spot as the best binocular harness for bow hunting.

Specs:

• Colors: Valo Camo, Verde Camo, Vias Camo, Ash, Steel Gray
• Binocular capacity: 1
• Style: Shoulder harness
• Additional features: Modular, fully enclosed storage, side pockets

Pros:

• Pro gear at an entry-level price
• Accessories available
• Fully enclosed storage for maximum protection

Cons:

• Mesh pockets aren’t very secure

While bowhunting, if your bowstring glances off of anything upon release, it could easily result in missing your only shot of the season. For this reason alone, a binocular harness with a slim profile is paramount. Kuiu is no novice to the hunting game, and they prove this with their Pro Bino Harness. 

The main storage compartment is outfitted with form-fitting technology to ensure that your binoculars are fully protected from any damage. It also keeps the entire system snug and out of the way of external interference. Even the side pockets are elastic mesh ensuring the smallest form factor when not in use.

You may find that your Pro Bino Harness lacks some more desirable features, and you want some additional space. If so, Kuiu has an entire series of available accessories designed for the Pro Bino Harness platform. Any chest harness with modularity is a huge win since it allows you to build the system that perfectly fits the situation you will be using the equipment.

A word of caution, though, for the side pockets. Since they are an elastic mesh construction, they aren’t fully secure. Therefore, we cannot recommend that you store anything loose and important (i.e., keys) in these pockets. Other than that, this is a near-perfect chest harness for your next bowhunting excursion. 

Things to consider before buying the best binocular harnesses

Color

The color of your harness may not be something you keep at the forefront of your mind. But it does play an important role depending on the purpose it will serve. If your goal for your binocular harness is to reduce neck fatigue, color is probably not a critical factor in your decision. 

Color does, however, come in handy when partaking in hunting or bird-watching activities. When stealth is the name of the game, you want to make sure your binocular harness doesn’t make you stand out like a sore thumb. Most manufacturers on this list have camo and solid color options so that you can choose based on your need.

Storage capacity

On all-day excursions, quick and easy storage access can make your day all that more enjoyable. If you are going out for a long day of bird watching, snacks and something to drink are nice to have without needing to carry a backpack. The lighter you can pack, the better your neck and shoulders will feel at the end of the day. 

Perhaps you are headed into the backcountry for a hunting excursion. A binocular chest harness that holds your hunting essentials, such as licenses, rangefinder, cell phone, and game calls, will ensure you have everything you need for a successful hunt close at hand.

Harness Style

Neck straps, shoulder straps, and chest harnesses all impact your body differently. Larger binoculars can be quite heavy, and a long day of carrying your optics ready to go at a moment’s notice can take a toll on your muscles. 

While neck harnesses are simple, they can put a lot of strain on your neck over time. You’ll want to go with a chest or shoulder harness to alleviate some of the aches and pains that come with carrying large binoculars for extended periods. Depending on which system you go with, some harness styles are also modular. Modular designs allow you to add accessories to build out the best kit you require.

Harness Features

Neck straps are a convenient, lightweight option for wearing your optics, but binocular harnesses often have useful features to enhance your experience. For instance, some manufacturers opt for a quick release or holster system for your optics to allow for unencumbered use. Similarly, other products store your optics in convenient pouches that have the added benefit of protecting your expensive investment. If you have large binoculars for long-range use, it is also important to consider how large of a pouch you will need to hold your optics.

FAQs

Final Thoughts on the best binocular harnesses

Each individual’s needs for a binocular harness system will differ depending on how they prefer to use their equipment. Consider your needs when reviewing the available options so you can choose the best binocular harnesses that suit you.

The post The best binocular harnesses in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best Overall		Autel Evo Lite +		SEE IT
Best for photography		DJI Mavic 3		SEE IT
Best budget		Holy Stone HS720E		SEE IT

Since hitting the mainstream market, drone technology has come a long way, resulting in some very impressive drones for real estate photography. It seems like a distant memory when capturing aerial imagery amounted to something only marginally better than duct-taping a GoPro Hero 3 to an RC car with propellers. Nowadays, drones come equipped with a wide range of advanced features. And as drones have become more feature-rich over the years, so have their uses from a commercial standpoint. 

Drones have made aerial cinematography accessible to the general public by making the hobby affordable and safe. Users can fly mostly worry-free, allowing them to get more and more creative with the applications of their equipment. Now drones are used for everything from inspecting miles of pipeline and tall structures, extended search and rescue missions, and perhaps what they are most known for, cinematography and photography. Whether you are a seasoned pilot or a complete beginner, it is easy to get lost in the options available when looking to purchase a new drone. So if you are looking for the best drones for real estate photography, then you have come to the right guide.

• Best overall: Autel Evo Lite+
• Best for photography: DJI Mavic 3
• Best premium: Parrot ANAFI Ai
• Best for beginners: DJI Mini 3 Pro
• Best budget: Holy Stone HS720E

How we chose the best drones for real estate photography

Most of the assignments drone pilots are hired for when it comes to real estate will fall into one of two categories: capturing compelling assets to be used in the sale of the land or home or showcasing a property’s amenities to aid in booking a vacation rental. For this reason, we primarily graded each of the drones on this list on their ability to capture still images. Camera quality, sensor size, and gimbal quality were all important considerations. We also looked at flight modes that may aid in capturing a property’s details, especially for those who may be new to the genre. 

The best drones for real estate photography: Reviews and Recommendations

Best overall: Autel Evo Lite+

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Why it made the cut: Out of all the drones we reviewed, the Autel Evo Lite+ packed the most bang for the buck and is one of the best drones for real estate photography out there. It has superb image quality backed with raw image support and exceptional flight time.

Specs

• Camera: 20 MP 
• Video quality: 6K at 24/25/30fps
• Max flight time: 40 minutes
• Onboard storage: 6 GB

Pros

• ISO Expandable up to 48000 with Night Mode
• Large 1” CMOS Sensor
• 6K video
• Outstanding hyperlapse performance
• Obstacle detection

Cons

• Bulky design has portability issues
• No LOG profile for video

The Evo Lite+ is the latest offering from Autel Robotics in their drone lineup. It packs a 1″ CMOS sensor capable of 6K video, giving you awe-inspiring footage. With a top-end ISO of 48000, this drone is one of the best cameras on the market in its class. A max flight time of 40 minutes ensures you have plenty of time to capture every angle of your subject. 

This Autel Robotics drone has three-way obstacle sensors for safe flying. So if the property you are working at has many trees, you won’t have to worry as much. And it has a maximum flight range of 7.4 miles, so you can fly while trusting that your drone and radio will always have a strong connection. 

It’s a bit of a double-edged sword, but Autel drones don’t come with geographically based flight limits like DJI drones. That makes it easier to fly in certain areas. But it also means you risk breaking FAA rules and putting airplane pilots in danger if you aren’t careful. So always check local regulations before you lift off the ground and keep your eyes open for low-flying aircraft in the areas as well.

You get 6 GB of storage on the drone itself, which is enough for most photography needs. But if you want to shoot video, especially 6K, you will want to get a microSD card. 

Best for photography: DJI Mavic 3

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Why it made the cut: In the latest from the Mavic lineup, the drone now boasts two cameras on the same gimbal, giving pilots more creative freedom. And the 20 MP camera ensures your still photos are top-notch for clients. 

Specs

• Camera: 20 MP
• Video quality: 5.1K at 24/25/30/48/50fps
• Max flight time: 46 minutes
• Onboard storage: 6 GB

Pros

• Huge 4/3 CMOS sensor
• Larger frame and weight for better stabilization
• Omni directional 
• Very stable in flight

Cons

• Battery life seems embellished
• Very expensive

DJI has been an industry leader for many years regarding drone technology. In DJI’s latest offering from the Mavic lineup, the Mavic 3 carries the industry’s first-ever dual-camera system in a cinedrone. The primary camera is a micro 4/3 from Hasselblad with a focal equivalent of 24mm. The second camera is a ½” telephoto camera with a focal length equivalent of 162mm. 

The raw image formats and image bracketing capabilities make the Mavic 3 a photographic powerhouse compared to any other drone of its class. The bracketing is especially useful for real estate applications. It will allow your drone photos to more closely match your interior shots if you are someone who uses HDR. While the video isn’t quite up there in the 6K range, the Mavic 3 shoots a maximum of 5.1k at 50fps for pilots who require more from their drone’s video abilities. 

The consensus related to DJI’s listed flight time is that 46 minutes feels a bit embellished. However, the actual flight time is still around the 40 minutes mark, which is a respectable flight time for a drone of its size and weight. And that 40 minutes of flight time is much better than the measly 15-20 minutes of flight time offered a mere ten years ago. Plus, if you are strictly taking still photos, 40 minutes should be plenty of time to get the winning shots.

Best premium: Parrot ANAFI Ai

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Why it made the cut: The Parrot ANAFI Ai tiptoes a fine line between professional and enterprise-level use. It’s undoubtedly the most expensive drone on this list and fits a particular real estate drone work category that no other drone offers on the professional-level market.

Specs

• Camera: 48 MP
• Video quality: 4K at 48/50/60fps
• Max flight time: 32 minutes   
• Onboard storage: None

Pros

• Open source drone for lots of customizability
• 4G connectivity provides stable connection with remote
• Ability to program flight plans
• Six-axis stabilization for sharp images

Cons

• Very expensive
• Tech specs of hardware leave a lot to be desired

The Parrot ANAFI Ai offers features that no other drone on the market does. If your real estate aerial photography business requires 3D telemetry mapping of properties or structures on the property, then this is the drone for you. It’s also an open-source drone, so that you can tailor it to your needs.

The ANAFI Ai is also unique in its 4G connectivity, allowing you to operate the drone from any distance. You still need to pay attention to FAA regulations, though, so you won’t fully be able to take advantage of that in most situations. Perhaps the biggest plus of the 4G connection is that the drone will remain connected to the remote even when it is behind obstacles. If you are flying on a heavily forested property, location with prominent terrain features, or somewhere with other buildings, that connectivity is a huge asset. 

Regarding camera specs, you get a 48 MB camera. It has a Quad Bayer sensor that provides 14 EV of dynamic range when in HDR 10 mode. Unfortunately, the video quality is only 4K at 60p, which is lower than significantly cheaper drones. Still, its unique use case and specific target market set it in a class of its own.

Best for beginners: DJI Mini 3 Pro

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Why it made the cut: At a lower price point than its bigger brother, the Mavic 3, along with easy flight modes, the Mini 3 Pro is a perfect drone for beginners to get started with.

Specs

• Camera: 48 MP
• Video quality: 4K at 24/25/30/48/50/60fps
• Max flight time: 35 minutes
• Onboard storage: None

Pros

• Easy to use
• Feature-rich for the price
• Vertical video
• Flight modes ideal for beginners

Cons

• Additional batteries and equipment can be pricy 

DJI has been paving the way in the drone industry, and a Mini 3 Pro is one of the easiest drones to get started with drone flying. Since its inception, DJI has perfected its flight stabilization technology, making flights smooth and easy to control. Its drones also have a return-to-home failsafe, so you can worry less about losing control. 

The Mini 3 Pro has a 48 MP camera capable of producing raw images, giving you more control over exposure adjustments. And you can bracket with this drone, so your exterior aerials will match your camera photos if you like HDR images. Plus, the pre-programmed intelligent flight modes help you get excellent shots even if you are new to flying.

For those wanting to create videos, the Mini 3 Pro has 4K 60fps video capabilities. Video footage is smooth and stable, even if you are contending with some wind. And the drone’s camera can rotate 90 degrees, allowing for uncropped vertical video and photos. It truly opens the doors for creators, even if they are new to flying drones. 

Best budget: Holy Stone HS720E

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Why it made the cut: Simply put, for the price, this drone packs a punch for anyone looking to get into drones. With its long battery life, excellent 4K video, and effective image stabilization, the Holy Stone HS720E more than earns its place as our best affordable drone for real estate.

Specs

• Camera: 8 MP
• Video quality: 4K at 30fps
• Max flight time: 23 minutes per battery
• Onboard storage: None

Pros

• Good quality 4K video
• Good battery life
• Electronic image stabilization works well
• Includes GPS and smart flight modes

Cons

• Batteries are slow to charge
• Photo quality could be better

For those who want to get started with drone photographs for their real estate work without a huge investment, the Holy Stone HS720E is a fantastic choice. It comes with two batteries that provide 23 minutes of flight time each, giving you a total of 46 minutes in the air. That’s more than enough to get plenty of shots of a listing. It also comes with a quality case to protect your drone when traveling between shoots.

The HS720E only has an 8MP camera for stills, which is quite a bit lower than the more expensive options on this list. But the images are surprisingly good for such a budget drone, and with a little editing, they are even better. Plus, you can manually adjust ISO and white balance should you want to. It’s also capable of 4K 30fps video, which is rare for a drone of this price.

Though it doesn’t have a gimbal, the HS720E features electronic stabilization, which is very effective. It also is capable of intelligent flight modes such as Follow Me and Point of Interest. And the drone is fitted with GPS, enabling an auto return-to-home feature, providing more peace of mind. Keep in mind that it is over the 250g limit, so you will need to register this drone.

Things to consider when shopping for the best drones for real estate photography

Image quality

We judge a real estate drone by its ability to capture quality media for real estate agents, property managers, and homeowners. That media helps connect their property to potential buyers and can have a significant impact. And the quality of a drone primarily comes down to its camera. 

Regarding camera specs, there is a fine balance between marketing fluff and what numbers hold up in the real world. As a general rule of thumb, the bigger the image sensor, the better the image quality. We have been conditioned to look at the megapixel count as a marker of how good an image will be. While this is true to some extent, it doesn’t paint the whole picture. 

Megapixel count refers to pixel density on the sensor. But to put that value in perspective, it also helps to know the size of the pixels. Pixel size is commonly depicted in micrometers (μm). The larger a pixel is, the better its ability to soak up the light required to generate an image. That is why a larger sensor with a lower megapixel count can outperform a much smaller sensor with a higher pixel density. Using these numbers paired with other features will assist us in choosing the best camera drone for our needs. When looking for the best drones for real estate photography and videography, you’ll also want to look at the minimum and maximum aperture, ISO limitations, shutter speed capabilities, raw support, and bracketing options. 

Video capabilities

Although still photography is currently the leading feature that drives drone sales for real estate, you should not ignore video either. In today’s age, video is one of the most powerful tools anyone can use when making a purchasing decision. Given the right property with the right features and amenities, a pilot’s ability to shoot stunning videos could be what separates it from the competition and pushes a buyer to make a move.

With each new iteration of drones, manufacturers push camera specs related to a drone’s ability to capture slow-motion video. However, we are concerned with a camera’s resolution over its frame rate. A high-resolution camera that captures ultra-high-definition video or better is more important than a camera’s ability to slow that footage down. After all, our subjects in this field are primarily stationary, and when slow motion is preferred, simply flying at a slower speed can deliver a similar effect.

Max flight time

Short flight times are one of the biggest problems that still plague the drone industry. Luckily drone manufacturers have improved this time through battery improvements and increased motor output with lower electrical requirements. Simply put, if a drone allows you to stay in the air longer, you have more opportunities to capture better assets. Sure, you can circumvent this by carrying multiple batteries with you on a shoot, but if a drone’s flight time is up against the clock of a setting sun, the time it takes to do a battery swap can be detrimental to the outcome of an assignment. 

Equipment dependability

Anyone who has flown a drone a handful of times has likely experienced the sheer panic that ensues when a radio transmitter loses connection with the drone’s radio receiver. Luckily, a heightened awareness of these issues has forced manufacturers to implement safety features such as a return to home and a complete failsafe (full shutdown of a drone’s flight systems to prevent harm/damage). 

It certainly is exciting to think that these little flying machines can travel well beyond a reasonable distance. Still, the fact of the matter is, depending on your location, it could be illegal to fly your drone outside of a direct line of sight. Also, a failsafe that far off could put that costly investment straight into the ground without any hopes of recovery. While manufacturers have their own propriety transmitting technology, you can loosely use a drone’s maximum travel distance to gauge the signal strength, hinting at its overall reliability.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best drones for real estate photography

The right drone is an asset for real estate agents looking for new ways to add value to listings and drone enthusiasts striving to earn income. Narrowing in on your budget, desired features, and quality needs will help ensure you end up with one of the best drones for real estate photography for your needs.

The post The best drones for real estate photography in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		PPA PhotoCare Plus		SEE IT
Best value		PPA PhotoCare		SEE IT
Best budget		Thimble		SEE IT

Photography insurance is a less than glamorous topic but is a necessity. As a photographer, videographer, or droneographer, one thing is certain: gear is expensive. And when you look at the money you spend on equipment as a literal representation of the time you have sacrificed, more is at stake than just the price tag. Whether it’s lenses, camera bodies, drones, or even computers and vehicles, it is essential to always have a contingency plan for when things inevitably go wrong.  

When looking at the vast possibilities of insurance available, it is easy to become overwhelmed. That’s precisely why we wanted to help you start your journey of selecting the right plan to fit your needs. Whether you are just starting your photography business, are a seasoned pro, or even a hobbyist, this article is your guide to approaching insurance agents well informed. Choosing the best photography insurance is one of the best long-term business decisions you can make, so keep reading to find out how to protect yourself, your gear, and your business.

• Best overall: PPA PhotoCare Plus
• Best value: PPA PhotoCare
• Best budget: Thimble
• Best for professionals: Full Frame
• Best for gear: Hill & Usher Package Choice

Best photography insurance: Ratings & reviews

Before we jump right in, there are a few things we must cover. First and foremost, we are not attorneys, and you should not use the the information provided here as legal advice. Furthermore, policies can vary wildly from state to state depending on local regulations. And since the gear required by photographers differs from each individual, we will be avoiding giving specific details on pricing. 

Instead, you should obtain an accurate quote from a licensed insurance agent built around your particular needs. This guide is intended for educational purposes only. Out aim is to help fellow creatives make well-informed decisions about the right photography insurance coverage for their business.

Best overall: PPA PhotoCare Plus

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Why it made the cut: This premium PPA insurance offers wide-ranging coverage, including data loss protection and equipment coverage up to $100,000, even for your drones. 

Pros:

• Data loss & negligence protection
• Equipment coverage up to $100,000
• Drone & UAS coverage
• Employee, assistant, contractor coverage

Cons:

• General liability coverage is an add on

Professional Photographers Association (PPA) does a top-notch job providing professional photographers with the tools they need to build a successful business. PPA brokers its insurance options through an insurance provider named Lockton Affinity. Where the benefit comes into play for photographers is how PPA worked with Lockton Affinity to tailor a policy that has the specific needs of a professional photographer in mind. 

Though you get insurance through your PPA membership, the PhotoCare Plus is additional, extended coverage. At this higher level of membership and insurance, there are a lot of benefits. For starts, a lower deductible of $250 means you can be up and running again with minimal out-of-pocket loss. On top of that, a general liability policy of up to $2,000,000 annually ensures that you have coverage in the event of an unfortunate accident. That holds true even if an employee of your business caused the incident. 

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of this coverage is the equipment coverage. PPA and Lockton Affinity insure up to $100,000 of equipment. It is valued at the full replacement cost of the equipment in the event of a total loss. What makes this even more appealing is that the PhotoCare Plus policy includes drones and other aerial imaging equipment. Other equipment coverage policies typically exclude these devices. If you decide to go this route, though, keep in mind that this coverage does not include general liability coverage. If that is coverage you need in your business, you will have to add on this coverage through Lockton Affinity.

Best value: PPA PhotoCare

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Why it made the cut: Included with your PPA membership, PhotoCare insurance gives you great insurance coverage along with additional benefits associated with your membership.

Pros:

• Equipment coverage up to $15,000
• Data loss and negligence protection
• Global coverage
• No additional cost beyond your membership fee

Cons:

• Excludes general Liability and personal injury coverage
• No drone coverage

When you sign up for a PPA membership, you gain access to a lot of benefits. You’ll be able to find business guides, financial benchmarks, boilerplate contracts, copyright & advocacy resources, discounts, consumer reports, sales and marketing tools, and a monthly magazine. But most importantly, you also get PhotoCare equipment insurance. 

PPA has a very reasonable monthly membership price. So much so that it’s hard to see how it can even provide that much value to its members. PhotoCare insurance is one of the biggest draws for a PPA membership. While PPA designed this to be a backup insurance policy, it is robust enough to help enthusiast photographers transition into full-time professionals. 

Right out of the gate, photographers can expect gear coverage for up to $15,000, determined by your original purchase price. In previous years, each deductible increased with each claim. But PPA recently changed that to a flat fee of $350 for each loss. While the equipment coverage is a very nice touch, it is worth noting that the other portions of insurance that most businesses require are non-existent. That means you don’t have general liability, drone, or personal injury insurance without upgrading your policy. 

Best budget: Thimble

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Why it made the cut: Thimble set out with a singular mission in mind, to help small businesses obtain the coverage they need for exactly their needs and only when they need it. Its day of coverage has the lowest premium around, which seats it as the best budget photographer insurance.

Pros:

• Last-minute insurance is possible
• Equipment coverage up to $2,500
• General liability coverage
• Very customizable to what you need

Cons:

• Equipment coverage is low at the monthly premium

Thimble is a unique company as it makes it easy for business owners to obtain spur of the moment insurance. It even has policies that cover photographers on a single afternoon shoot at an average of $5. Its day rate is attractive at an average of $15 for an entire day of shooting. 

But what exactly do you get for premiums as low as these? Negligence protection, check. General liability up to $1,000,000, check. Personal Injury? Covered by their general liability policy. Equipment damage, sure, up to $2,500. If that’s not enough coverage for your gear, you can always add on more in $2,500 increments. 

We admit we were surprised by the low equipment coverage amount from this provider. But as we will later see, they aren’t alone. With the ability to only pay for the coverage you need when you need it, there is a lot of money to save when going with Thimble. For our budget-minded professionals, this may be the route to go.  

Best for professionals: Full Frame

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Why it made the cut: Full Frame is an insurance provider that caters specifically to photographers and videographers and them alone. Having a provider that only deals with creative professionals ensures that any agent you speak to understands the intricacies of the business.

Pros:

• General liability
• Personal injury
• Short-term coverage options available
• Negligence coverage

Cons:

• Equipment coverage is only $1,000 per occurrence

Full Frame has a very easy-to-use website. It provides users with all the information needed to give photographers a sense of direction before speaking with an agent. Its intuitive insurance policies come in three different packages. They range from three-day event coverage at $59, an annual plan at $129, and a premium annual policy of $184. 

While all three policies have similar coverage, the Annual Plus comes with more add-on options and higher liability limits. It even provides coverage for cyber liability, which covers any data breach of sensitive content. That’s a nice addition you won’t see with other providers. 

The one area we feel as though it missed the mark on was the equipment coverage. As photographers, our gear is the heart of our business. Without it, we are dead in the water, so we were shocked to see such low equipment coverage amounts. For starts, only the annual plans include $1,000 per occurrence equipment coverage. And only the Annual Plus plan has the option of adding on additional coverage limits for an additional premium. The annual premium for their top offering is only $184 ($15.33/month). That is a great price, but we would have liked to have seen the base coverage bumped up a bit with the higher premium.

Best for gear: Hill & Usher Package Choice

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Why it made the cut: Hill & Usher is an insurance provider that is the primary choice for seasoned photography professionals. Its Package Choice Photographers Insurance is gear-focused, giving us peace of mind.

Pros:

• Policy designed with gear in mind
• General liability coverage
• Negligence coverage

Cons:

• Very outdated website
• Hard to gather enough info to set expectations

Out of all of the policies we reviewed, this is the first that puts gear first. And they did so without excluding the other important staples of great coverage. You can expect coverage for cameras, lenses, flashes, studio contents, computers, storage media, scanning equipment, dark room equipment, and even rental equipment. And it is all covered up to the cost of replacement. 

Outside of their extensive gear coverage, general liability has a starting limit of $1,000,000. That includes coverage for personal injury and negligence. Depending on the amount of coverage your business requires, your deductible could be as low as $250 but no higher than $1000. 

With such an appealing insurance policy, it is a shame how outdated its web presence is. When first reviewing Hill & Usher, its website gave off the impression of a long-forgotten business that kept up with its hosting bill. Unfortunately, the dated website also made it challenging to discern helpful information. It seems that its intent is for potential customers to contact one of its insurance agents to get a more accurate account of coverage options. Because of this, we were unable to get a clear idea of how much we could expect to pay in premiums and how much equipment coverage to expect. After looking at some of the actual claims paid out, though, we were pleased to see some higher claims, one of which was $375,000.  

Things to consider before buying photography insurance

Any time a conversation is started around the topic of insurance, many what-if scenarios come to mind. These can help set a clear path for choosing the coverage you need. For example, let’s say you aren’t ready to make the leap into the professional world of photography just yet but still want to ensure that the gear you spent your hard-earned money on is covered. The good news is that homeowner’s insurance could possibly cover your gear if something happens to it in the case of a break-in or natural disaster. 

As good as this sounds, there are many pitfalls to consider. If damage occurs to your gear outside of the home, it is likely that your homeowner’s policy won’t cover replacement or repair. Similarly, if you do decide to start shooting commercially, many homeowner’s policies require that you cover your gear with a business insurance policy.

Liability coverage

Gear coverage is not the only necessity when it comes to photography insurance. Venue owners have put a lot of time and work into building their businesses and want to ensure that damages are covered by all vendors utilizing their space. Because of this, many event venues require proof of general liability coverage from their vendors. 

Another feature to look out for when reviewing general liability coverage is its ability to cover employees, assistants, and even contracted employees in the case of an accident. Even as a photographer, there are a plethora of unique situations where you may be liable for damages. So it always pays to make sure you have protection in the event of costly repair bills.

Personal injury

Personal injury coverage also plays a major role in selecting the right package. We may not think of photography as a full-contact profession. But depending on the type of shooting you do, there are plenty of opportunities for accidents to happen. 

For example, during a sparkler exit on a wedding day, you could bump into a guest who drops a lit firework, causing burns. Or, as a landscape photographer, you could have a nasty fall in the wilderness and break a bone. Lastly, your drone could malfunction, dropping out of the air while landing and the rotors require you to get stitches. Therefore, having good personal injury coverage is a must when selecting a policy, even if you are fortunate enough never to use it.

Additional add-ons

When combing through what each insurance company offers, add-ons and other options may be appealing to consider. Some a la carte options worth looking at include drone coverage, which companies frequently omit from equipment policies, auto insurance, and business owners’ policies. 

You may also consider indemnification coverage for when a client threatens legal action due to negligence, data loss. Options for tailoring your insurance policy to your needs are in no small supply. That’s why we wanted to highlight the different variables popular with most professional photographers.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best photography insurance

Photography insurance may seem unnecessary, especially when starting out. But it can mean the difference between continuing in photography or not. Even if you only get gear insurance, having a safety net in case something happens to your expensive equipment is vital. At the end of the day, your insurance plan should be one of the pillars of ensuring your business runs as smoothly as possible.

Methodology: How we picked the best photography insurance

Every company that offers business insurance can craft a policy that caters to photographers. Rest assured, if you have an insurance provider that you know and trust, chances are you can continue using them. In a few fortunate cases, companies devote the time to developing insurance policies specifically designed with creative professionals in mind. We looked at the top options of insurance providers professional photographers have used in their careers and selected what we feel to be the best choices for anyone looking to cover their business.

We paid close attention to policies that covered the items we photographers are keen on protecting. Good general liability coverage, personal injury coverage, and equipment replacement or repair coverage were the aspects we most closely analyzed when assembling this list. Additionally, some insurance providers had additional coverage options for things like indemnity, data loss, or drones, which put them ahead of the competition in our eyes.

Running a successful photography business takes a lot of resources, so any insurance provider with other benefits with their policy also helped bolster their rankings. As with the case with PPA, there were many additional features included with the membership that will go a long way in assisting new photographers in building their businesses.

The post The best photography insurance of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Cabelas Outfitter Gen 3 30MP Black IR Game Camera		SEE IT
Best for deer hunting		Moultrie Mobile Delta Base Cellular Trail Camera		SEE IT
Best motion activated		Browning Command Ops Elite 18 MP Trail Camera		SEE IT

What does the pursuit of game, nature watching, and video surveillance all have in common? Super cool spy gadgets that’s what! Although not as slim as a camera embedded in a pair of spectacles, trail cameras are designed to blend into their environment as discreetly as possible. Their hidden design lets them silently capture video and images of unsuspecting subjects in their natural environment. Hunting is one of the earliest traditions held by humanity which, to this day, people participate in all over the globe. Throughout that history, we have made many technological advancements that have increased our success rate out in the field, the newest of which lies in trail cameras. As new cameras reach the market jam-packed with the latest features at wildly different price points, it can be overwhelming if you are new to using trail cameras. Keep reading to discover what to look for and what the best trail cameras under $100 are. 

• Best overall: Cabelas Outfitter Gen 3 30MP Black IR Game Camera
• Best for deer: Moultrie Mobile Delta Base Cellular Trail Camera  
• Best motion activated: Browning Command Ops Elite 18 MP Trail Camera 
• Best budget: Stealth Cam Browtine 16MP Trail Camera 

How we picked the best trail cameras under $100

This spring hunting season, we took the opportunity to take a serious look at what makes a great affordable trail camera by testing a few against each other out in the field while in pursuit of either a Rio or Merriam turkey. When looking for the best trail cameras under $100, options are greatly reduced to a more digestible pool to draw from. While there are a large number of choices from online retailers, we wanted to focus specifically on well-known brands with a proven track record of customer satisfaction, product support, and availability in brick-and-mortar locations. From there, we reviewed each camera based on image & video quality, range of motion detection, trigger speeds, weather resistance, price, and any other additional features (GPS, Cellular, Accessories, etc.).

The best trail cameras under $100: Reviews & Recommendations 

Best overall: Cabelas Outfitter Gen 3 30MP Black IR Game Camera

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Why it made the cut: The Cabela’s Outfitter Gen 3 Trail Camera has the best image quality making it the best trail camera for under $100.

Specs:

• Megapixels/resolution: 30MP/1080p 
• Trigger speed: 0.5 sec
• Special features: Ready to go package, Passive Infrared for increased battery life

Pros:

• Exceptional image quality
• Full 1080p HD video
• Everything you need right out of the box
• Faster than average trigger speed at 0.5 sec

Cons:

• No cellular image upload capabilities

Lacking in only one department, the Cabela’s Outfitter Gen 3 Game Camera is the best trail camera for under $100 overall. The single most important feature of any camera is its ability to capture quality images. With a 30MP camera, your images will come out crystal clear regardless of the shooting conditions. The quality will allow you to see every detail in your environment. On top of that, this camera can capture full 1080p HD video with audio for a more immersive experience. Video clips of animals passing in front of the camera will tell you a lot about their behaviors and direction of travel, helping you plan out your hunt. 

As an added benefit, Cabela’s provides you with everything you’ll need right out of the box. No need to worry about finding batteries or whether your SD card is compatible; you’ll be able to head directly out to the field from the store to hang your camera. 

The only feature that prevents this camera from being the perfect package is the lack of cellular capabilities. Although, with the addition of cellular, a data plan may put budget-conscious hunters over the $100 mark with the added month-to-month cost. Overall this is one of the best trail cameras under $100 on the market if you are looking to stay right at that price point. 

Best for deer: Moultrie Mobile Delta Base Cellular Trail Camera  

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Why it made the cut: This feature-rich trail camera has cellular connectivity for checking your images on your phone. It also has property mapping and subject tagging for easier planning of your deer hunt.

Specs:

• Megapixels/resolution: 24MP/1080p 
• Trigger speed: 0.75 sec
• Special features: Ready to go package, Cellular Connectivity

Pros:

• Download images & video from the camera via cellular network
• Full 1080p HD Video with sound
• Weather tracking and property mapping 
• Smart tagging of captured subjects

Cons:

• Data plan requires a monthly fee
• Setup is more complex than other cameras

The Moultrie Mobile Delta Base Cellular Trail Camera was one of our favorites from this list. This feature-rich platform surprised us in both performance and its intuitive, easy-to-use interface. Be aware that as a cellular camera, in order to take advantage of all of the features it has to offer, you will need to purchase a data plan from Moultrie Mobile. The plan will come from either Verizon or AT&T, depending on which unit you acquired. 

No matter which data plan you decide to go with, Moultrie Mobile gives you access to every feature available within the app. Other manufacturers would require you to pay for access to additional features under a “pay for only what you need” façade, so having free access is an excellent bonus.

The app alone and its interaction with the camera are worth every penny of the initial unit price and the monthly data plan. With the integrated smart tagging feature, any images or videos that the camera records are updated with a tag to categorize your media based on the subject matter. This could be a buck, doe, turkey, person, vehicle, or any of the other tags they are constantly adding to the system. Another feature of the app is a complex mapping system that lets you map out your hunting area and pin key points of interest throughout the property. It will allow you to easily map and plan your hunts with several key points of tracking data collected throughout the scouting season. 

In the off-season, this camera does a fantastic job as a remote security camera. With the ability to upload captured media to both the cloud and your mobile device, as long as the camera has a charge and a cellular connection, your property can be under your surveillance from anywhere in the world. One piece of advice, though, is that it’s much easier to download the required app and go through the setup process at home before you get out in the field. With a weak cell signal, this set could take much longer if you try to do it once you get to where you are hanging the camera. 

Best motion activated: Browning Command Ops Elite 18 MP Trail Camera 

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Why it made the cut: With the fastest trigger speed on the market, you won’t miss another shot with this camera.

Specs:

• Megapixels/resolution: 18MP/720p
• Trigger speed: 0.3 sec
• Special features: Excellent Battery Life

Pros:

• Extremely fast trigger speed
• Excellent battery life
• Small concealable form factor
• Self-adjusting infrared for well exposed night time photos

Cons:

• Photo and video quality could be better

If a fast action camera is what you are looking for, then the Browning Command Ops Elite is the best motion-activated camera for under $100. A trigger speed of 0.3 sec, puts the Command Ops Elite at the fastest triggered camera in its class. A tenth of a second may not sound like a long time, but when an animal is spooked and running quickly through the path of your camera, it could mean the difference between a clear image of the animal or a blurry tail at the edge of the frame. Sure any camera can capture a deer grazing along as it forages around for food, but if they are looking to leave the area in a hurry, you will wish you had a camera that can switch from standby to shooting in a blink of an eye.

Another noteworthy feature of this camera is its excellent battery life. On a fresh set of batteries, the Browning Command Ops Elite can capture 15,000 images before being completely depleted. Of course, this is with conservative settings with lower resolution images, but it is still a respectable number that most cameras would have trouble matching. A single set of batteries could potentially last an entire hunting season. 

Best budget: Stealth Cam Browtine 16MP Trail Camera 

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Why it made the cut: With its affordable price point and ease of use, this camera is a top recommendation for anyone looking to get started with trail cameras.

Specs:

• Megapixels/resolution: 16MP/480p 
• Trigger speed: 0.8 sec
• Special features:

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Multiple shooting modes
• Up to 15 sec of video

Cons:

• Build quality is a little lackluster

Perhaps it is your first year of hunting, or you have always wanted an approachable way to get into trail camera use to help with success during hunting season. The Stealth Cam Browtine Trail Camera is a great place to start for the budget-conscious hunter.
While the specifications of this camera aren’t exactly top of the line, they are more than adequate for your hunting needs. With its 16MP camera, you can clearly identify game in high-traffic areas in the wilderness. If you are using this camera during your preseason scouting and planning operations, having a stand-alone unit out in the field over the span of a few days can go a long way in helping you track down the trophy of your pursuit. Capable of recording up to 15 seconds of video at 480p, you can watch video clips of animals as they interact with the environment around them. 

As a bonus, since you can pick up this camera at a great price, you may want to consider purchasing a few of them to drastically expand your scouting operations, allowing you to get more eyes in more places helping you be more successful once the season opens.

Things to consider when shopping for the best trail cameras under $100

Before we jump in, if you plan on using your trail camera primarily for hunting, take a moment to review your state regulations on trail camera use during the hunting season, as several states have rules restricting camera use during hunting season. 

Picture Quality

Any camera worth its weight in salt will be judged foremost by its picture quality. You can have a $300 trail camera with all the bells and whistles, but if the camera does not perform well, it’s about as useful as a screendoor on a submarine. When assessing a camera’s image quality, important factors boil down to three main points: image clarity, low light or nighttime performance, and video capabilities. 

Often the subjects we aim to capture on these devices are more active from dusk to dawn, making the ability to capture crisp images in these extreme lighting conditions paramount. Also, there may be times when video is more important than still images. If that is the case, look for cameras that offer video as a part of their package. 

Battery Life

While not as important as picture quality, a trail camera’s battery life can make or break the user experience when placing these devices out in the field. While it may be fun and exciting to go mount your new camera on the perfect lookout tree in a remote location, a camera that burns through batteries will have you making frequent trips to swap batteries. 

While a vast majority of the best trail cameras under $100 utilize AA batteries, the number of batteries that are required makes this an important aspect to consider. For example, a feature-rich camera with multiple functions can take 12+ AA batteries to supply the unit with adequate power. 

Trigger Speeds

Ever tried to snap a quick photo of a family pet striking a pose just to have them move in the brief moment between when you pressed the shutter button and when your phone actually took the photo? This delay is why a blazing fast trigger speed is vital when considering which trail camera to purchase. 

When setting up your silent eye in the woods, you won’t get the opportunity to fine-tune and adjust the camera for the perfect composition. It can be a guessing game with frustrating results if your camera is not lined up just right. Because of this, animals may only partially pass through the camera’s field of view. In those moments, having a fast trigger speed might be the difference between capturing a worthwhile image and capturing nothing at all. 

Weather Protection

Trail cameras, by nature (every pun intended here), are meant to be rugged and built well enough to stand up to the elements. So whether you are looking at an entry-level game camera or the latest flagship model, your camera needs to be able to stand up to all conditions outdoors with an emphasis on moisture protection. 

Additional Perks

Trail cameras across the board come with a multitude of features that can prove useful depending on what your needs are. Some additional features worth considering during your purchasing decision may include, GPS, weather monitoring, moon phases, daisy chain connectivity (for multi-camera setups), or the ability to upload images and video directly to your phone via cellular connectivity. 

For ease of installation, verify what comes in the box when buying a trail camera. Some of the best trail cameras under $100 opt to include everything you need to get you camera installed in the field right out of the box, which is a handy bonus for anyone who doesn’t have a bucket of AA batteries in their vehicle. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best trail cameras under $100

Purchasing a quality trail camera while working within a budget can be difficult in today’s oversaturated market without spending hours reading review after review. So whether your needs range from unprecedented image quality to remote security surveillance, we vetted well-known manufacturers with a reliable reputation you can trust to ensure that there is a camera here for you. 

The post The best trail cameras under $100 in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Every hunting season, many hunters grab their trail camera and set up on a game trail in hopes of capturing glimpses of their next potential target. Using a trail camera can be highly rewarding, giving you insight into the animals that frequent a specific area. It can be the key to setting you up for a successful hunt. But, it can also be a very frustrating experience if the camera doesn’t capture anything useful. This guide aims to help mitigate your frustrations and aid in your pursuit of wild game.

Things to be aware of when using a trail camera for hunting

Before we jump into our how-to, it is essential to note that local laws will dictate the appropriate use of trail cameras in the pursuit of game. These laws vary from state to state. For example, some states make trail camera use during the hunting season illegal. In those locations, you can only use them for pre-season scouting. It is a good idea to check on rules and regulations pertaining to trail camera use for hunting before setting one up.

What to consider when purchasing a trail camera for hunting

When choosing your trail camera, features like battery life, image quality, and cellular capabilities will play a vital role in which one meets your needs. Trail cameras can vary wildly in price, so it’s important to know what you need from your trail camera before you make your purchase. Should you be looking for a budget option or cellular-specific camera, we have outlined some of the best options available. 

How to set up your game camera for scouting and hunting

With your trail camera in hand, it may be tempting to just dump the camera right off of a game trail in hopes of observing all of the activity in that area. While this method may yield results, there are a few tips to keep in mind in order to achieve the best results. But first and foremost, if mounting your camera on public lands, you may want to consider purchasing a wire cable and lock to ensure your trail camera does not end up in the wrong backpack. 

When deciding where to hang your camera, you’ll want to focus on areas that have lots of animal signs. At the very least, look for resources that they need, such as food and water sources. If you know of a hot spot, consider placing the camera there to see what is going on. Otherwise, look for things like bedded down grass, roughed up ground from scrapes, or heavily traveled game trails that serve as highways for the deer.

When mounting your camera, position is everything. Trail cameras aren’t exactly known for their ultra-wide viewing angle. Because of this, we recommend hanging your camera about four feet off the ground. We found this is the perfect height for capturing assets of most big game species. If you are unable or uncomfortable hanging your camera that low, try to find a position that allows you to hang your camera pointing downward. Trees grow with a natural taper to them, which can result in cameras pointed upwards when mounted flush to the trunk. So, getting the height right and tilting it down slightly will go a long way in capturing good, usable images. Otherwise, you may find your camera pointed upwards, so you better enjoy pictures of deer foreheads.

It’s worth noting that getting your camera positioning right is much easier with a cellular trail camera. It can upload a snapshot from the field so you can immediately see the camera’s viewing angle before leaving. It can be incredibly infuriating to hang your camera only to find out weeks later that adjustments were needed. 

How to prepare for your hunt with the pictures from your trail cam

It’s important that your trail camera is a tool that finds its way into your scouting arsenal. This is especially true in states that don’t allow use during hunting season. A camera is your second pair of eyes in the field and will provide information that you wouldn’t otherwise get. Once you start looking at the images or videos of the wildlife that crossed your camera’s path, knowing what to do next is what will make your prep work worth it.  

 If you have a camera that captures video or even photo sequences, studying the animals’ behavior can provide clues on what to do come hunting time. Are the animals passing through between where they bed down, or is this a popular feeding location? With video, you can even determine the direction of travel. Obtaining this information early on gives you the edge to further examine the area for the best possible setups for your hunt. 

Once you have some initial information, it may be beneficial to move the camera to further your insights. Adjusting the trail camera towards the direction of travel once you find a high-traffic area will also provide you with ample knowledge to track your target. It may also help you pick up on new patterns or notice different animals that frequent the area.

Final thoughts on hunting with a trail camera

Whether this is your first time using a trail camera or you are simply looking to up your game when it comes to these tools, if you keep these tips in mind, your next hunt could very well be your best one yet. First, choose an appropriate camera that meets your base needs, then consider additional desirable features if your budget allows.

Proper placement of your trail camera ensures that the images and video you capture best serve your hunting goals. Mount your camera in an area free from brush that could block the view. Or, mount it higher up and angled down towards the ground to get the best results. With images and video in hand, be mindful of animal behaviors which can give you clues vital to your next hunt. Hunting is one of the largest outdoor recreational sports and should be an enjoyable experience. But hunting often comes with a substantial expense. So, any tool you can use to give you an edge will help ensure you keep coming back for more.

FAQ

How do trail cameras work?

Trail cameras use a high-speed infrared sensor to activate the camera. While sitting in the field, they will go into standby mode in order to conserve battery life. The trail cam lies dormant until the environment in front of them changes, as sensed by the infrared sensor. The sensor then triggers the camera to take images or videos. Since infrared is based largely on heat signatures, any drastic changes in temperature in the environment can trigger the camera. This can quickly burn through data, storage, and batteries. For this reason, avoid hanging your trail camera around moving water or an area where pets and people may frequently travel.

How to set up a trail camera?

While each manufacturer is different, each trail camera is relatively the same. Insert batteries and storage medium before you head out into the field so you can check your device’s functions. If all looks well, take your camera to the location you want to cover. When hanging your camera, opt for a position around four feet off the ground. If you want to hang your camera higher, be sure to angle the camera down towards the ground to get the best field of view.

How much are trail cameras?

Trail cameras vary wildly in price, from just under $100 to $300 or more. For budget-minded people, there are plenty of feature-rich options if you are looking for the best trail camera under $100.

What size SD card for trail cameras?

The larger the SD card, the more images and video you can store. If you are simply capturing images of a location, a 32GB SD card should be more than enough space to cover a well-trafficked area for 1 to 2 months. However, you may need a larger SD card if you also plan to capture videos.

The post How to use a trail camera for hunting appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.