Canon Day at the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve

By Paul Rodriguez

​On Saturday, Nov 24, representative from Canon came out to the HBVP to demonstrate their photographic equipment and stabilized binoculars.

​Canon rep, Stacey Foster brought quite an array of cameras and lens for people to try out on the bird walk that was led by Red Rock Audubon. There were also a couple reps on the walk that demonstrated some of Canon’s really big 500mm prime lenses.
 
The stabilized binoculars were very nice and I can see several reasons why I’d want a pair. Like birding from a moving boat, car or perhaps if you had shaky hands.
 
There was also a Canon research and development technician that brought a very cool palm sized digital monocular for folks to try out and give feedback. The device featured a 100mm – 400mm zoom with a built in still and video camera. 
 
After trying it out we were asked what we like, disliked, and changes we would make. Although, I don’t think this device will replace a good pair of binoculars or DSLR camera, I thinks it would be great for the casual birder or photographer to carry in a pocket or bag. I would probably carry one for those times when I’m not really birding but see a bird I want to get a closer look or snap a quick picture.
 
The walk was a lot of fun. Led by Doug Chang, participants were able to get some great photos of the many species that were seen that day. I believe everyone had a good time.

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