A high-quality camera isn’t enough for astrophotography. Along with a quality camera, you need to know tricks and have in-depth knowledge.
Speaking of astrophotography, Nikon D5100 is a suitable camera for this purpose. There are various functions of this camera. But don’t worry we will make your work easy with all specs descriptions.
So, you want to know about the Nikon D5100 for astrophotography?
The Nikon D5100 is one of the greatest cameras for individuals intending to do astrophotography. It gives you more control over your nighttime photos. Additionally, it generates photos of exceptional quality. It is more comfortable in the hands and snapping images with it is much simpler.
This is merely the beginning. You will require complete expertise for this job. So, let’s move on next to learn more about Nikon D5100 for astrophotography.
How is the Nikon D5100 for Astrography?
Nikon D5100 is enough to get the job done. It ensures capturing images of high quality. With its 3D tracking, focusing on objects gets easier.
Due to the ISO level that it provides, it gives smooth control at nighttime photography.
The ISO setting effectively affects a camera’s light sensitivity. When you push down, the camera will begin shooting the photo. But it will not finish until you release the button.
Again the shutter speed helps a lot by slowing down the speed. That results in increased brightness in the nighttime photos. So, eventually, it will come in great use for astrography.
However, I use a fast prime lense with my camera. It allows me to capture the sharpest and most well-exposed picture even in lowlights.
Do you need some fast prime lens recommendations? No worries! I’ve already created a good-quality list for you below-
Now let’s take a close look at the specifications of the Nikon D5100-
Specifications of Nikon D5100
Different cameras and binoculars have different specifications like the differences between 7×35 and 10×50 binoculars. Similarly, Nikon D5100 has some definite specifications.
Now let’s talk about the Specifications of Nikon D5100.
The Nikon D5100 has a 16.2MP CMOS sensor that provides high-quality photos. It also provides 3D tracking systems. As a consequence, it’s simpler than ever to concentrate on the task at hand.
Thinking about the ISO range of Nikon D5100?
The range runs from 100 to 6400. It also gives you ample versatility to increase your night photography control. The camera’s size is likewise small. This allows it to hold it in position for longer periods.
However, if you can get yourself a camera hand strap you’ll get a more comfortable grip. I would suggest the following straps-
- Altura Camera Hand Strap- if you want to prevent accidental slips
- JJC Deluxe Camera Hand Grip Strap– adjustable to the size of your hand
Moreover, the D5100, unlike the D5000, has a body shape more comparable to the D3100. It is more comfortable in the hands and makes photographing considerably simpler.
5 Step Guide to Nikon D5100 for Astrophotography
Interested to know the Nikon D5100 astrophotography setting?
Well, the camera is well-suited for astrophotography. But few things need to be kept in mind at the time of astrophotography.
Let’s start with the steps:
Step 1: Slow Shutter Speed
You see, the Nikon D5100 includes a variety of options. That helps it perform well in astrophotography.
However, as you’ll be shooting at night, you’ll need a slower shutter speed to get enough light. In this case, use a remote shutter release timer. You won’t have to touch the camera this way.
Also, a fuzzy picture with oblong stars and tails can be avoided.
I got myself and my friend a shutter speed remote last month. Here are the remote names we’ve chosen for ourselves. And so far these are doing pretty well-
| Image | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
  | Kiwifotos Shutter Release Remote | Pick It Now |
  | Amazon Basics Wireless Shutter Release Remote | Pick It Now |
One more thing you have to consider is that you should concentrate on shooting a single frame.
Step 2: Bulb Mode
When it comes to astrophotography, a few things need to be kept in mind.
So, what should be the Shutter speed for Nikon D5100? Taking photographs at night necessitates a shutter speed of at least 10 seconds.
Photographers may also use Bulb mode to keep their shutter speed for longer than 30 seconds.
Slide the shutter speed trigger until the screen reads “Bulb” to activate bulb mode with the D5100. Bulb mode can also be quite handy if you wanna shoot photographs with little noise.
Step 3: Framing
One of the most critical aspects of capturing the night sky is appropriately framing the photograph. You won’t create much of an impression on the picture if you don’t frame the photo appropriately.
When you get your Nikon D5100, turn on the rule of thirds grid overlay. The live view and pop-out screen of the Nikon D5100 are also handy features.
For the live view mode and the pop-out screen, you may additionally enable the rule of thirds grid. With the camera oriented upwards, it will assist you in seeing from numerous perspectives.
But for your convenience you can use a camera mount adapter. It’ll help you to move your camera 360° to get the right frame.
You don’t have to go anywhere else to get the right recommendations. I’ve listed some adapter and angle adjuster for you in the following table-
Step 4: ISOs Level
When photographing the night sky, the most essential thing to remember is to keep the ISO low. While this may seem like a minor point to experienced photographers, it’s critical for starters.
The higher the ISO, the more noise is introduced into the picture.
So, how’s the Nikon D5100 ISO setting?
Keep the ISO low while shooting astrophotography. It’ll assist you in achieving your trademark style, which features moving stars and clouds.
If you don’t wish to utilize bulb mode then it’s okay. Because the Nikon D5100 provides good ISO performance.
Just be careful not to exceed 800. Above 800, the ISO adds so much noise to the image that the quality of the image suffers.
6 Tips for Nikon D5100
Whether you’re using Nikon D5100 or d5200 for astrophotography, it can be challenging. However, following some tricks, the results can turn out to be very satisfying.
Here are Some tricks for Nikon D5100-
Tip 1: Observe the Histogram
Keep an eye on the histogram. The histogram provides a visual representation of the information gathered in your image.
Tip 2: Use a Star Tracker
To go much deeper, use a star tracker. With a star tracker, you’ll be able to shoot even the faintest stars.
Your images will not only be full of details but also colorful. Because the tracker is moved across the sky by the orbit of earth.
So, here are some star tracker recommendations that you should definitely try once-
- Orion Starshoot Compact Astro Tracker– small and light enough to take anywhere
- Sky-Watcher Dslr Night Sky Tracker- if you want wide-field astrophotography as well as a time-lapse video
Tip 3: Get a Tripod
If you want to photograph the night sky, you’ll need a robust tripod. Regardless of the sort of optics, you’re using in this case.
Because nighttime astrophotography can be quite time-consuming. And your hands wouldn’t be able to hold the camera for a long time. That’s where a tripod can be the savior.
Some tripods that served me for long in my photography life are-
Tip 4: Use the White Balance Setting
For astrophotography, the daylight white balance setting is frequently the best option. It uses our own star’s white to offer you the most realistic color portrayal of the stars.
However, for this purpose you can also use a white balance filter. I’m also looking to buy the JJC Hand-held White Balance Filter for my camera. Because it consistently helps to provide accurate color and is very convenient to use.
Tip 5: Proper Lens Setting
The camera lens must be set to manual focus. Also, it cannot be used focusing on the stars because they are too low and tiny.
Tip 6: Get Camera Bags & Cleaning Kit
If you’re into astrophotography then you might’ve traveled to impassable places. In that case, a camera bag can be super useful to carry your camera and gears safely.
Also, for outdoor shoots, keeping your camera cleaned is very necessary. And that’s where a cleaning kit can come in handy.
Here are some must-have camera bags and cleaning kit for your camera. Grab one today-
| Image | Product Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
  | Amazon Basics DSLR Gadget Bag | Grab It Today |
  | FOSOTO Waterproof Camera Case | Grab It Today |
  | Altura Photo Cleaning Kit | Grab It Today |
So, these are the few tips and tricks for astrophotography. Keeping these in mind will improve your skill set.
FAQs
Is the Nikon D5100 good for portraits?
Nikon D5100 is average for portraits. This camera is mainly used for astrophotography. It is designed in that way. Portraits can also be taken with Nikon D5100. But the quality is not up to the mark like other portrait special cameras.
Is the Nikon D5100 discontinued?
Yes, Nikon D5100 is discontinued. Many new updated versions are released which have more extra features. Nikon D5600 is the latest version with many exciting features.
Nikon D5100 DX or FX?
Nikon D5100 is DX. Nikon has launched the Nikon D5100, a 16.2-megapixel DX-format DSLR F-mount camera. It can shoot Full HD 1080p video at 24, 25, or 30 frames per second.
Conclusion
This is all you need to know about the Nikon D5100 for astrophotography. Now you clearly know that Nikon D5100 is suitable for astrophotography.
If you want to know more about Nikon D5100 or about astrophotography you can join your nearest photography school today!
Good Day!
