the best advice??

the best thing to do is to come in and speak with us about what you want to do with your telescope or binoculars. We'll ask you a few key questions .

We'll be able to recommend a range of options. Then you can try them out. We have a number of viewing options at our shop for you to 'try before you buy'.

Taking a little time to trial and speak with experts will mean you get the perfect instrument for you. One you'll enjoy for many years to come...

There is an exciting array of telescopes and binoculars available. However, the range can be bewildering.. here are some tips to help you out.

This is an exciting time in which to become an amateur astronomer. Never before have novice stargazers been presented with such a vast array of telescopes and accessories to pursue their hobby. Naturally, this brings the burden of choice: a bewildering variety of instruments makes it difficult for the uninformed consumer to make the right decision.

Types of telescopes

There are three basic types of telescopes; refractors, reflectors (often called Newtonian reflectors), and Catadioptrics. Each telescope type has the same purpose, to collect light and bring it to a point of focus so it can be magnified and examined with an eyepiece, but each design does it differently. Different designs are best suited to different applications, each has advantages and disadvantages; unfortunately, there is no single “best” telescope.

More here

Which telescope is right for me?

Before you buy anything, you must determine what's important to you. What do you want to look at, where will you observe from, how experienced an observer are you, and how much to you want to spend? Answer these key questions, familiarise yourself with what's currently on the market, and you'll be well on your way toward acquiring a scope that will satisfy you for years to come.

Choosing a particular telescope depends on your individual needs including cost, portability, versatility, usability, appearance, etc. You should also contemplate what you plan to do with the instrument both now and in the future. Many amateurs own two or more telescopes to satisfy their varied interests. Jacob will ask you a few questions and will then be able to recommend a few different options to you.

More here

Binoculars and spotting scopes

The brilliance and sharpness of the image you see through a particular binocular or spotting scope is determined by a number of different factors, including the interaction of these factors. Magnification, optical coatings and lens diameter are just a few of the factors influencing how a binocular performs. As with telescope, choosing the right binoculars or spotting scope depends on your individual needs including cost, portability, versatility, usability, appearance, etc

Buying a camera

To choose a camera ask yourself what you need to get out of it and what you will use it for. What type of photographer are you? If you have the answer to this question, the choice won't be difficult. As a matter of fact with a bit of simple advice and by asking yourself the right questions, you will have no trouble deciding on the type of camera that will suit your needs.

Ask friends and family what cameras they have (digital or otherwise), and what they like or don't like about theirs. This is one of the best ways to get real feedback on a model.

For more on cameras and photography go here