I came across this checklist for setting up and taking startrail photos. I’ve modified it slightly based on my own equipment and workflow.

These are some example photos I’ve taken using this setup

Astrophotography photo samples

Star trail Checklist

Site Selection

  • Sunrise, Sunset, Moonrise, Moonset and moon phase all known.
  • Light polution

Equipment

  • Camera
  • Tripod + release plate
  • Camera batteries
  • Memory card
  • (Wide angle) Lens + lens hood
  • Intervalometer + batteries
  • Rain protection
  • Tripod Weights
  • Headlamp
  • Flashlight/torch
  • Stuff for lightpainting

On Site

  • No leaning (center column should be vertical) – leg locks tightened
  • Camera aimed, leveled
  • Camera locked onto tripod. Head tightened
  • Tripod weighted/secure and everything is wobble free. Keep the tripod low and out of the wind for best stability. Do not extend the center column.
  • Intervalometer and any other cord, or wiring also secure. Velcro on the intervalometer and the tripod leg is a handy trick.
  • Save GPS coordinates and/or mark site with glow stick / other?

Camera Settings

Setting Value
Mode Bulb
ISO 800 (Ideally not more than 1600)
Exposure Single Exposure
LCD brightness As low as possible
Image Review OFF
Image Format RAW
WB daylight (Just not Auto)
Aperature f/4 (f/2.8 - f/7.1)
Auto focus OFF
Image Stabilization OFF
Noise Reduction OFF
Mirror Lockup OFF
AEB OFF

Timer Setup and Test

Setting Value
Delay None
Exposure Time 2’ (2’ total interval is a good starting point)
Interval 1”
Num exposures >= 120

PRO TIP: Test timer; Verfiy second shot starts before canceling

Focus and Final Framing

  • Check image composition, field of view
  • Set camera to Aperature priority mode if still light
  • Take several bracketed shots in daylight or twilight

PRO TIP: if it is already dark take a high ISO shot (ISO=2000; 30sec)

Battery and Card Shuffle

  • Make sure memory card has enough space
  • Take second set of bracketed shots
  • Return camera to Manual/Bulb mode
  • Verify all settings are correct

Final Steps

  • Recheck for wobble
  • Set DELAY appropriately so it starts or ends at twilight
  • Secure cables
  • Make sure battery and memory card access is unencumbered
  • Switch to AP, take a single image, re-verify focus
  • Switch back to Bulb
  • Start timer
  • If possible, wait for first 2 shots

You can leave lens cap on for the first few exposures to collect DARK frames