This is my first astrophotography attempt but happy with the results after 5 hours stood in the cold of the Blue Mountains
After months, (ok..probably 2 years) of research on the web and ISS forums I was ready for my first attempt at an actual astrophotograph outside of just partial lunar ecliplse photos from the back yard in light polluted western Sydney. I finally found a weekend that had a new moon AND the weather forecast was for sunshine with only a slight chance of cloud here in Sydney.
(Not professional gear) Nikkon D5200. Old (6 years) kit 18-50mm f/3.5 lens. Slik Able 300DX tripod (heavy but perfect for mountains/standing in rivers/never let me down).
The photo = 18mm, f/3.5, ISO 4000, 25s exposure. Even at these settings I can see there are some some slight trails. But it's a start.
Location = Mt Blackheath lookout - paraglider launch area.
I'm happy with the results and it has only given me more incentive to check the forecast and moon phase calenders for the next attempt. And of course...save some $$$'s for a wide angle lens
