Quick Answer
To photograph the Milky Way, you need a camera with manual controls, a wide-angle lens (14-24mm), a sturdy tripod, and dark skies (Bortle 3 or better). Use settings around ISO 3200, f/2.8, and 20-25 second exposures.
What You'll Need
Capturing the Milky Way might seem daunting, but with the right gear and techniques, anyone can do it. Here's what you need to get started.
Essential Gear
- Camera with Manual Mode: Any mirrorless or DSLR camera will work. Even entry-level models like the Canon EOS Rebel can produce stunning results.
- Wide-Angle Lens: A fast lens (f/2.8 or wider) is crucial. The Samyang 14mm f/2.8 is an affordable option that delivers sharp stars.
- Sturdy Tripod: Any stable tripod will do, but avoid cheap lightweight models that shake in wind.
Camera Settings
Start with these settings and adjust based on your results:
- ISO: 3200-6400 (higher for darker skies)
- Aperture: f/2.8 or wider (the wider, the better)
- Shutter Speed: 20-25 seconds (use the 500 Rule: 500 ÷ focal length)
- Focus: Manual focus on a bright star or use infinity focus
Finding Dark Skies
The most important factor is light pollution. You need Bortle Class 3 or darker to see the Milky Way's structure clearly.
🗺️ Pro Tip
Use our interactive map to find the darkest skies near you. Look for Bortle Class 1-3 zones (shown in green) for the best results.
Open Dark Sky Map →Best Times to Shoot
Timing is everything:
- Season: March-October in the Northern Hemisphere (core is visible)
- Moon Phase: New moon or crescent moon (less than 30% illumination)
- Time: 1-2 hours after sunset or before sunrise
Post-Processing
Even the best RAW files need editing. Use Lightroom or Photoshop to enhance contrast, darken the sky in Adobe Lightroom tutorials.
Ready to Capture the Galaxy?
Find the darkest skies near you with our real-time light pollution map.
Explore the Map