Trailcam advice

Jelster

Jelster

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Steve
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I have a fairly basic trail camera which I use primarily in the garden to capture footage of the hedgehogs. I'm lucky that we have about 4 or 5 individuals who come to my home made feeder most nights. 3 of them are easily identified and are visiting every night.

My problem is that the camera I have could be a lot better when on night vision mode. Also, it really suffers with the dew getting over the lens. So although it's a 1080p I would like a better/clearer image when in video mode. Another feature I would like, although not overly important, is the ability to "live view" so I can watch without disturbing them.

So, any suggestions as to what I should look at. I have a budget of up to £150.00
 
Pointing the lens slightly down and using some sort of motorbike helmet visor spray can help reduce the dew. Moving the camera a bit further away from the action can reduce the (usual) overexposure that the built in IR lamps often cause on relatively close action.
 
Nod said:
Pointing the lens slightly down and using some sort of motorbike helmet visor spray can help reduce the dew. Moving the camera a bit further away from the action can reduce the (usual) overexposure that the built in IR lamps often cause on relatively close action.
Click to expand...

I've tried a spray, also the old fairy liquid trick (that we used to do on our visors). I don't think it helps that I like to get a low POV and of course, that brings it closer to the grass. When I used it 2 nights ago, anything past about 1am was useless as the lens looked like it was under water.

Edit: I have just thought about making a little lens hood for it. But I want something with better night time resolution anyway...
 
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Lens/dew heater running off a power bank should resolve the under water pics

maybe try a gel hand warmer secured with an elastic band, lasts a few hours
 
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You do get what you pay for to be honest.
I had one of these and it was superb - no 'live view' but good solid performance throughout the night and it keeps warm helping reduce any misting.

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Browning Recon Force Edge 4K

The Browning Recon Force Edge 4K wildlife camera, now available at the NatureSpy Shop. All purchases support our non-profit environmental and social projects.
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I have been using one of these for the past 18 mths (£150.00) and very impressed with them! Colour video at night and good quality images. - Don't let the name put you off!


They also have a different 4G Camera, if you want to view live.

I have also used 'Apeman' products for many years and the 'Bolygard' unit is vastly superior.
 
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Never tried it on a camera but spitting inside your face mask and a rinsing it out seemed to work to stop misting on scuba gear, not a clue if it'll help with a trail cam. If you do try it let me know when, I could pop around and have a laugh... ;)
 
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