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Old 13-01-2008, 01:06 PM
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Deeno
“We are star-stuff”

Deeno is offline
 
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Central Coast
Posts: 1,317
Hey TeZZa

Only recently started to use my D200 for some astro photography and only at the start of the learning curve.

Here are some settings I've been playing with :- Exp. Delay Mode- On.. This will open the shutter gently reducing camera shake.
:- Image Quality - Raw.. collects most data for stacking the photos. Using DeepSkyStacker which is free softerware downloaded off the net. Don't have to worry about white balance.
:-High ISO NR - Normal...A noise reduction filter that will help clean up a lot of the noise when using high iso values
:-Long Exp NR - On.... Another filter to reduce noise from long exposures.
:Intvl Timer Shooting.... Lets you take a series of shots without touching the camera. Make sure you leave a minute or so between shots as it takes a while for the camera to proccess each image.

If you dont have a remote you won't be able to use the bulb function for exposures over 30 seconds as you will have to hold the button down to keep the shutter open.

Use the widest aperture your lens has(lowest f number)

If shooting from a tripod use the shortest focal length. The sky is moving and long focal lenghth and long exposures will cause elongated stars.

Use the camera's self timer as the camera will shake when the shutter release is pressed and this will give it a chance to settle.

Santa bought me a cheap eq mount with RA drive from Bintel for Christmas so now with some carefull setup the camera now tracks with the stars.

Focus is critical!

Do a search on the subject here in IceInSpace. There is a ton of info

Hope this helps and good luck!

Deeno
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