SeattleDan
Well-known member
I was considering converting an older camera to IR for experimentation. I'm interested in trying for Owls more than bats. There are plenty where I live, but it's more possible to catch them perching than with bats, of course. I've been reading but the tech, as usual, is a bit much for me. This is where I am so far.
CMOS sensors are the fastest and supposedly, the "DMOS" tech of Micro 4/3rds sensors makes that tech less "noisy." I don't think the lower Pixel ratings of older cameras are a negative for IR, night time photos, or even daytime "art pics." Non-mirrorless, shutter type or full frame cameras are a tad slower for auto-focus, (I think?), which would be sketchy enough in IR, I'm assuming, (completely in the dark about all this). Also, they'd be more cumbersome. I wouldn't want to "digi" or use my telescope as a "prime lens" as I do, because I'll need auto-focus. I will use a tripod, as blur will be the biggest enemy. I'm wanting to capture birds in motion.
The question really is... can IR do this through a longer lens at all? Is it only good for close distance and stills at close range, or moonlit nights? Am I chasing something not possible? I read somewhere and can't find it to save my life, of some technical "thing" that one can do, to enhance sensitivity, making this possible. I've read up on this and truly, as a personal preference, don't want to use flash for Owls... not to disparage anyone else's work. I certainly admire those images.
If you know anything about this and can help, or simply dispel my little delusion here... I'm all ears. Thanks
CMOS sensors are the fastest and supposedly, the "DMOS" tech of Micro 4/3rds sensors makes that tech less "noisy." I don't think the lower Pixel ratings of older cameras are a negative for IR, night time photos, or even daytime "art pics." Non-mirrorless, shutter type or full frame cameras are a tad slower for auto-focus, (I think?), which would be sketchy enough in IR, I'm assuming, (completely in the dark about all this). Also, they'd be more cumbersome. I wouldn't want to "digi" or use my telescope as a "prime lens" as I do, because I'll need auto-focus. I will use a tripod, as blur will be the biggest enemy. I'm wanting to capture birds in motion.
The question really is... can IR do this through a longer lens at all? Is it only good for close distance and stills at close range, or moonlit nights? Am I chasing something not possible? I read somewhere and can't find it to save my life, of some technical "thing" that one can do, to enhance sensitivity, making this possible. I've read up on this and truly, as a personal preference, don't want to use flash for Owls... not to disparage anyone else's work. I certainly admire those images.
If you know anything about this and can help, or simply dispel my little delusion here... I'm all ears. Thanks