I always use binoculars in combination with my camera. After spotting movement, if the bird is not close, I use the binoculars to identify the bird in order to assess whether it's worth trying to get closer for a photograph.
Binoculars are referenced with two numbers, the first (8x, 10x) refers to the power of magnification. Binoculars with an 8x magnification will make objects appear 8 times closer than they are. The higher the number, the closer objects will appear through the lenses.
The number following the magnification power is the aperture. This indicates how much light the lenses are able to gather. Wider lenses usually also increase the size of the binoculars. The wider the objective lens size, the brighter the image you'll see thanks to more light being gathered through the lens.
You can find second hand binoculars on ebay, or look at the recommendations below which are available on Amazon.
Low Priced
Medium Priced
Adasion Optics 12x42 HD Binoculars
These binoculars are for Adults and have a Universal Phone Adapter -high power binoculars with super bright and large view — lightweight waterproof binoculars for bird watching. Light and inexpensive (under $70 at the time of writing).
< Click the photo for more info.
High Priced
Top of the Line— Super Expensive
