Tripod Balancing Platform (for the 100mm model)
This is used on the Regal 100 F-ED model to properly balance your spotting scope on top of a photo/video tripod.
To use the tripod balancing platform:
Mount the platform to the top of your photo tripod using the ¼"-20 threaded hole on the bottom side of the platform.
Attach your spotting scope to the platform using the ¼"-20 mounting screw located on the top side of the platform. Thread the
mounting screw in as far as it will go. Slide the attached spotting scope along the slotted cutout until your spotting scope is
balanced on the tripod. Tighten the locking ring to hold the spotting scope in place.
Photographic Use
SLR Cameras
To use your spotting scope for photography, you will shoot through the spotting scope with the zoom eyepiece attached. Make
sure the eyepiece locking collar is secure during each stage of the setup.
Remove the eyecup from the top of the zoom eyepiece. With the eyecup down, rotate it counterclockwise to remove
it and the eyepiece will appear as in Figure 6a with exposed threads at the top.
Attach the T-Adapter (this is packed with the zoom eyepiece in its protective case) to the threads at the top of the
zoom eyepiece – Figure 6b. Make sure the threads are positioned as shown.
Thread an optional T-Ring for your make and model of SLR camera onto the T-threads of the T-Adapter – Figure 6c.
Attach your SLR camera body to the T-Ring. – Figure 6d shows setup complete awaiting your SLR camera.
Regal F-ED spotting scopes have fixed apertures and, as a result, fixed f/ratios. To properly expose your subjects
photographically, you need to set your shutter speed accordingly. Most SLR cameras offer through-the-lens metering which
lets you know if your picture is under or overexposed. Adjustments for proper exposures are made by changing the shutter
speed. Consult your camera manual for specific information on metering, changing shutter speeds, and other settings.
Hint: Most photos will be the sharpest and brightest when using the lowest power on the zoom eyepiece.
Figure 6a
Figure 6b
Figure 6c
Figure 6d
Digital Cameras
Since digital cameras (not digital SLR cameras) do not use the T-system to mount cameras to lenses, spotting scopes,
telescopes, etc. you need a different way to be able to use them to take photos. Celestron (and many other companies) offer
Universal Digital Camera Adapters which makes it easy to attach a digital camera to your Regal F-ED spotting scope.
However, many brands of digital cameras cannot obtain a centered image due to their lenses not being able to reach up to the
center of the eyepiece. In this case, you cannot use the Universal Camera Adapter but can only use your camera by holding it
behind the eyepiece for taking images.
Note: With many digital cameras, your image will be vignetted (gives you a circular image surrounded by black
background) which is normal.
You will shoot through the spotting scope with the zoom eyepiece (or any optional 1.25” eyepiece) attached.
¼"-20 Mounting Screw
¼"-20 Threaded Hole
(not shown)
Locking Ring
Mounting Screw
