Mastering BirdCam 2.0 Lighting Needs

I have been operating one of the new BirdCam 2.0 products from Wingscapes since the middle of November, and in that month I am still more or less relearning BirdCam use. Even factoring in the unusually overcast conditions of this winter, I am finding the light needs to be subtly different than for the classic 1.0 unit. I can say that with the right light, the photos are outstanding even at a distance. This photograph of a male Downy Woodpecker was taken at nearly three feet and was cropped with effective results. And I have been compiling an increasing number of satisfactory images. So what error did this user eliminate? Being much more sensitive to background helped a lot. Also, staying out of the low light corridor directly in line with the sun is making a difference as well. Regrettably, I am still having great difficulty with the least amount of rain. I suspect that the known adjustments in the photometer, while expanding our picture window, had to be paid for by a little weaker performance during overcast conditions (unless at very close range.) The tests, trials, and errors are paying off and I am getting the performance I want. Happily, things will only improve as we get out of the rainy season.