Advice and tips using a Canon 350D

[04Stefan07]

Hey everyone.

Just acquired a Canon 350D for astrophotography. I have been using my iPhone for afocal stuff and got some nice pictures but now I have finally upgraded and ready to use a DSLR.

I already got the t ring and t adapter so I am all set!

If anyone here has a Canon 350D or a similar model could you please offer any advice/tips on how to get started?

Is there a way to hook up the camera to a computer and control taking photos from that? Been mucking around with the camera last few days (came with 2 lenses so I will be taking up some photography as well!)

Would love to expand my knowledge even further and get some great astrophotography pics with this DSLR.

Thanks :D

[04Stefan07]

Just been doing some research and came across a shutter release cable. Could this become of any use?

[bojan]

Shutter release cable is essential for astrophotography.
see here:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Cable-changeable-Canon-timer-remote-control-Canon-T3i-T2i-T1i-XSi-1100D-60D-/320818165451?pt=AU_Cameras_Photogra phic_Accessories&hash=item4ab240b6cb (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/N2-Cable-Changable-Timer-Release-Remote-Shutter-Cord-Nikon-D70s-D80-/320938526936?pt=AU_Cameras_Photogra phic_Accessories&hash=item4ab96d48d8)
You should search this forum for answers, you will find a lot of information here.

[Merlin66]

The 350D is still a reasonable DSLR to start with, but it does need the special cable adaptors to connect to a PC.
Also, it is no longer supported by Canon, and there's no drivers for Win7.
You need to use a PC running XP2.

[DavidTrap]

You could start with a Timer Remote from eBay if you don't want to hook up to a PC straight away.

DT

[ZeroID]

I have just been use a shutter release cable ( electronic) with the camera self timer on 30 secs, ISO 800. Good starting point without all the connection problems inherent in setting up a PC and with LP it's about the max I can go without the background build up.
Still fun to try and get accurate focus ( my camera does not have a Live View option).
I'm contemplating a Canon in order to get that feature but it will have to wait till I have guiding and microfocussing sorted and af ew $$$ stashed away.

[DavidTrap]

The timer remote will let you set the camera to bulb and control the exposure duration with the remote.

DT

[traveller]

You can also use the camera in built self timer without cables. Limited, but a good starting point.

[04Stefan07]

thanks everyone!!