Low budget Astrophotography

[scottphillips]

Looking to further my Astrophotography, I'm currently using my iPhone for afocal Astrophotography and can get some pretty cool star trail shots, but want to start taking some quality deep space shots with a DSLR through my scope, I have a budget for a second hand DSLR at no more than £100 so if anyone could suggest which DSLR to look out for that would be great or any links to ones you know already around that price 2nd hand would be appreciated also

[baggywrinkle]

Look at the Canon range, IMO they are the best in terms of use and support for astro work.

Get one with the fold out and rotable live view screen, it is a godsend when on a tripod or mount on a 'scope.

[jgs001]

At your price point, I think you'll struggle to get a fold out screen. I suggest taking a look at second hand prices...

http://www.mpbphotographic.co.uk/used-equipment/used-digital-slr-cameras/used-canon-digital-slr-cameras/

A 400d is £89, but doesn't have liveview

a 450d is £124 and has liveview

There are others on there, in the next range up, 30d and 40d, but they are larger and heavier, although the prices are a bit lower. I don't know if they have liveview though.

[malp]

As a 40D and ccd user, the Canon 40D has live view and, to my mind, is the perfect dslr camera for astro imaging. Fold out screen is not important. Second hand mint 40D camera is now around £140.00. Add a programmable timer remote and ac power adapter for longer duration imaging. (The Canon 30D does not have live view).

[scottphillips]

Thanks guys I'm on the hunt for a 40d right away

[RichM63]

I think that your mission statement of no more than £100 is going to be a problem in your search.

I totally agree with saving towards any kit, thus why not put aside £10 per month for the next 12 months and have a budget of £220 inc stated amount?

If you do go down the road of saving and paying you will feel so much better long term.

I know I do!

[scottphillips]

Reason is because I have seen a lot of camera body only for sale and want to know the best one because I will use it to attatch to my telescope with a t-ring adapter so I'm not worried about a lens

[laser_jock99]

You should be able to pick a 40D for £100 (I bought one from a London Camera Exchange shop sale at Xmas), The 40D can be modded to full astro capability in under an hour.

[frugal]

Have you checked that you can use a DSLR with your scope? Some scopes do not have enough travel in the focus tube to allow the DSLR to come to focus without extra bits. You will also need to be sure that the focuser is strong enough to cope with the weight of the camera. 

[jimbo747]

I just got a 1100d body for £80 off eBay body only, add another £10 for battery and charger so can be done.