Try this......take 6 or so 10 sec subs. That will give you the stars of the trapezium without burning them out. Then take 6 or so 3 minute shots of M42. Stack the 10 sec subs and the 3 minute subs separately, then blend the 10 sec subs in with the 3 minute subs. To learn how to do this, go here to
Louie's (atalas) site and click on "Mask for Photoshop". The methods will work in other similar image applications. Learn these and the other Louie has on site (especially levels and curves) and you'll be cooking with gas
