Digital cameras 101

[Dale McMurray]

I have/use a Sony DCS-717.  I have been trying to capture a Osprey pair during the current nest season. some days its overcast others its sunlit. I have gotten a few good pix but when I use the multiburts(it takes 3 ) there is a lag before I can use it agai n. Is it better to just not use it where birds are concerned?  :-/

[Mike54]

Hi Dale and welcome to the Q&A Board,

The problem sounds familiar, with my 300D (digital rebel) I only get 4 frames in a burst but want 8 . It's a question of buffer size and write speed and if you want more, well, you have to pay more.
Seriously though, while it can be inconvenient to have to wait I certainly wouldn't stop using it because of the lag time. I find it increases my chances of getting a keeper, in particular when trying to get an in flight shot. If shooting at a relatively stationary target I probably wouldn't use burst. When I do use it I do try to do so judiciously, meaning I had to learn to judge when I can afford the wait and when it might cost me a better shot. Of course there are times when my judgement is a little off...  

[Deb]

Hi Dale, osprey are magnificent birds! What a treat!

In addition to Mike54's fine comments, I'd add that you'll want to engage your shutter (half-way depress the shutter butter) for those stationary subject shots. You won't have to suffer with shutter lag time that way.

Yep, use burst mode when your subject is in motion. For instance, when the adult osprey is lifting off or landing on the nest.

Also, the more you shoot, the better you'll be able to judge how long you'll have to wait for your buffer to empty and balance your shooting accordingly.