Settings for my Nikon D80 (1 Viewer)

Hi all,

I'm very new to digiscoping and have now bought a vanguard vps-85 scope and a t mount to use with my Nikon D80 so this may be the first of many stupid questions.

First thing that I have noticed is that when I attach the scope via the t mount, the displays shows F-- so I have absolutely no idea how to set the aperture for good pictures.

Also, I understand that lenses can be stepped down to fit the adaptor for the scope so that I can use the scope attached to maybe my 50mm prime lens. The lens has a 52 mm thread and I believe the scope adaptor thread is 43mm. I assume therefore that I need a 52-43 step down ring.

Can anyone please help me with these queries.

Thank you.

Steve.

You need to set the camera mode to MANUAL. Aperture control is not possible. You can only control exposure by adjusting shutter speed and to a lesser degree ISO. A 28-35mm lens will generally be a better match. If you decide to attach a standard camera lens make sure to have support device to hold/stabilize the camera. You do not want the full weight of the camera hanging on the end of the lens.

I think the 43mm thread of the T-adapter is a different pitch thread to that of step rings. I don't think a 43mm step ring will screw onto the 43mm of the t-adapter, it might go half a turn or something but it wont screw on all the way. I could be wrong but pretty sure that's the case.

Plus if you put a lens on the camera then you need to be photographing through the eyepiece and not the adapter.

Paul.

Thanks guys, your help is appreciated. Now looking at a mount to support the camera and will see where I go from there.

Steve.