M42

Ok as I have titled this album making a start I am looking for constructive criticism, suggestions and answers to questions.
This first image of M42 was taken at the eyepiece of my Skywatcher 130p on an EQ2 mount using a Canon EOS 550D with a remote release. Exposure time was around 30s at 1600 ISO.
There are two things which immediately jumped out at me one there are still short star trails. Question; would I be right in thinking my polar alignment was off?
Secondly at the end of each trail there is a blob at right angles to it. I'm assuming this is due to camera shake due to the shutter movement. I did use mirror lock up and waited about ten or so seconds before opening the shutter.
I am going to try a radio release next time to avoid any physical connection whatsoever between camera and release and eliminate that as a source of movement.
Your thoughts and suggestions would be welcome.