OCTOBER 2022 OBSERVING First Exposure by Tony Puerzer Beyond Your Camera's Kit Lens Go wide or go deep - the sky's the limit when it comes to choosing a second lens. M ost interchangeable-lens cameras come with an inexpensive " kit lens " that works well for everyday photography. In our June 2021 issue, I showed how you can use basic equipment to create some compelling nightsky images. However, as your experience grows you may begin to feel limited by having just the one lens. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best second lens? The answer largely depends on what kinds of photographs you want to make. Speed Limits If you're shooting with a camera on a stationary tripod, then a fast, ultra-wide model is a great choice. A " fast " lens (one with a low f-stop number, such as f/1.8) delivers more light to your camera's sensor, which is critical for keeping exposure times to a minimum. The lower magnification of a short-focallength lens allows you to maximize the exposure time before the stars start to National Parks and designated dark-sky locations are prime candidates for observing and photographing the Milky Way. The dark skies and high altitude of Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah were the perfect setting for this photo of the Milky Way setting behind a bristlecone pine. A Canon EOS 6D camera was set to ISO 6400 for this 30-second exposure with a Canon EF 15mm f/2.8 fisheye lens at f/2.8. 54 OCTOBER 2022 * SKY & TELESCOPE