Setting Up Your Equipment

You'll need a camera that can take very long exposure photos. An SLR or digital SLR with Bulb Mode is perfect.

Use the lowest ISO setting available (e.g. ISO 100) on your camera to reduce the amount of noise in your final photo.

A tripod is absolutely essential. The sturdier the better, particularly on a windy night.

Use a wide aperture to ensure you capture plenty of light. This will give you brighter trails.

Wrap insulation around your lens to prevent it fogging (particularly bad on very long exposures on cold nights). An ideal, cheap solution is to wrap socks around it and hold them in place with elastic bands.

Optionally, take a star chart or planisphere along to help you identify the North or South star (see below).

Finally, you may want to take a warm coat, a flask of coffee and a good book to while away the time!