- Use a tripod
- Use a remote or cable shutter release (ideally a lockable one so you can leave the camera alone for longer exposures)
- Use shutter priority (TV) to ensure a long exposure – this will be up to 30 seconds on most cameras
- If the camera will not focus, use manual focus or find a light source within the picture and focus on that (with a half push of the shutter button) then return the camera to frame the image you actually want and close the button fully
- Use the bulb (B) setting for an exposure longer than 30 seconds – this might be needed for very dark skies in order to get some of the detail, of the Milky Way, for example
- Use the bulb setting for star trail photography and locate your camera somewhere well away from light pollution
- Wrap up warmly!
This image was taken using an exposure of 63 seconds,
aperture of f/5.6 and ISO of 6400. I controlled the exposure time by having the
camera on the bulb setting, the camera set the aperture and ISO. I used a
tripod and a cable shutter release button to keep the camera as steady as
possible, and I adjusted the focus manually.
