58 • Celestial Photography
When getting started, use fast films to record as much detail in the shortest
possible time. Here are proven recommendations:
• Ektar 1000 (color print)
• Konica 3200 (color print)
• Fujichrome 1600D (color slide)
• 3M 1000 (color slide)
• T-Max 3200 (black and white print)
• T-Max 400 (black and white print)
As you perfect your technique, try specialized films (i.e., specially designed
and/or treated) for this type of astrophotography. Here are some popular
choices:
• Ektar 125 (color print)
• Fujichrome 100D (color slide)
• Tech Pan, gas hypered (black and white print)
• T-Max 400 (black and white print)
There is no exposure determination table to help you get started. The best
way to determine exposure length is look at previously published photos to see
what film/exposure combination was used. Or take unguided sample photos of
various parts of the sky while the drive is running. Take exposures of various
lengths to determine the best exposure time.
