[QUOTE=TheInfamousGreedo;17107477]There were quite a few meteors that evening which made it even more enjoyable to be out that night shooting.
Thank you for all of that info. The Gimbal head looks like a nice start, but I am concerned about the camera fitting. I've been looking around B&H for other heads and the prices are pretty steep in comparison to the Gimbal head you posted, but like all things, you get what you pay for.
I'll have to do some homework; with winter creeping in, I'm not sure how badly I'll need one over the next few months (I doubt I'll be doing too much night photography during that time).[/QUOTE]
Thank you for all of that info. The Gimbal head looks like a nice start, but I am concerned about the camera fitting. I've been looking around B&H for other heads and the prices are pretty steep in comparison to the Gimbal head you posted, but like all things, you get what you pay for.
I'll have to do some homework; with winter creeping in, I'm not sure how badly I'll need one over the next few months (I doubt I'll be doing too much night photography during that time).[/QUOTE]
Yes. Perseid meteor shower always starts earlier and last longer than expected. Though Peak night, that is Aug 12 was very bright due to supermoon, now that moon gets dimmer, meteor shower remnants gets even nicer. It is even better for people residing in northern part of NH.
You can always use one of these macro rails, to push the camera to the empty side of gimbal:
LINK
Of course should you opt to use this way, you may need a Arca Swiss quick release to 3/8 screw adapter as gimbals come with AS or you may have to change the entire plate of gimbal that might be cheaper. Or even use a direct rail that has AS at base and 3/8 on top like this one:
LINK
Yes nothing better than trial and errors. I strongly suggest you try during daytime and utilizing your current tripod, head, etc, try to capture entire 180 degree of upper field in your home yard or easy to reach area and then try to improve also your post processing technique in stitching. Nothing can substitute that and you will be amazed by how much you can achieve in no time without spending a dim.
I am sorry to hear you are not going to shoot during winter as most beautiful Milky Way only happens during winter. But then stay warm and dark cloudless nights to all.
