My Cameras Are My Best Tools

One of the questions I’m frequently asked is about the camera I use to take my garden and bird photographs. I actually use two main cameras to get the job done. They’re probably a lot less fancy than you’re envisioning!

For regular garden shots and especially for zoom shots of birds and critters, I use a Canon Powershot SX50HS. This is essentially a point-and-shoot fixed lens camera. In addition to having a fantastic built-in zoom lens, the camera also takes video.

Having the ability to take videos of birds and animals was a game changer for me. It gave me the chance to capture their behavior and beauty more than ever.

I’ve had this camera for about 4 years and Canon has since upgraded this model. I think it originally cost me about $350.

Now, you might be surprised about my other main camera which is my iPhone. I have a 7-plus and it takes absolutely the BEST close-ups! That’s handy when you need to take a lot of photos of flowers and insects, let me tell you.

The photo to the left is a perfect example of the type of cell phone image. It’s amazing what we can do with our phones these days, isn’t it?

The main camera is 12 megapixels and there’s also a zoom feature. And, of course, it takes video, which gives me another option. 

My video camera

For my garden videos, I switched from using my Powershot camera to a Canon Vixia HF R70 video camera. It was pretty inexpensive (about $200) and gives me the ability to use a microphone. That has been another game changer for me. Using a lavalier microphone works great because you can hear what I’m saying no matter what the conditions. Even if I need to turn away from the camera). It filters out an amazing amount of background noise.

Anyway, this video camera works very well for my needs. I set it up on a tripod and away I go. It’s really easy to use, too. Once I’m through shooting all of the video takes, I transfer the videos to my iPad. I do my editing in iMovie as needed, and voila!

At some point, I’d like to upgrade to a video camera that accommodates TWO mikes. That would allow me to interview and/or have a conversation with someone else during my videos. So far, I haven’t found one that fits my needs and, more importantly, my budget.

Now you know what my preferences are when it comes to cameras. Photography is such a joy and a passion for me. I love capturing the beauty that surrounds me and enjoy sharing it with you. Since I get a lot of questions, I can tell you are interested in doing the same!