First target suggestions

[dannybgoode]

All things being well I am hoping to start capturing my first images. I have various scope / lens choices (Skywatcher 150P or a Canon 70-200 mkII L with or without the x2 adapter or Canon 100mm) and camera is likely to be a Starlight Xpress SX674. 

So the obvious choice for first target is M42 - clearly visible from my patio but are there any other solid options for a first attempt? Something easy to capture and to add to later.

I can see pretty much all the way North, East, South - the Western sky is obscured by the house. 

[Ronclarke]

M45 and M31 are good!

[Demonperformer]

All three of these are good early targets and are all well place at the moment.

[dannybgoode]

Thanks guys. I have spent a good amount of time observing M45 and yes, I get an excellent view where I am. 

Whole galaxies are a dream of mine to photograph so another solid option. 

[mikeDnight]

M1 the Crab nebula! Well placed at the moment and relatively easy to find.

[Demonperformer]

53 minutes ago, dannybgoode said:

Whole galaxies are a dream of mine to photograph so another solid option.

Depending on what time of night you are imaging, the M81/M82 combination is another good starter, but they culminate between 3 & half past in the morning - but that will get better as spring (galaxy season) approaches.