The Milky Way is a firm favourite for nightscape photographers and astrophotographers alike, but beautiful images of our Galaxy are well within reach of beginners with basic entry-level equipment too.

Agonising over astrophotography shots? Traumatised by your next tripod choice? Send your technique and camera questions to digitalcamera@futurenet.com

Andy Westlake assesses a unique telephoto lens for extreme close-up photography

It’s December, which means it’s time for the best meteor shower of the year – the Geminids. Perseids fans may disagree, but long, dark nights and a broader activity peak give the Geminids the edge. Tr

Here are the top ten images uploaded to Photocrowd from Round Six, Night and Low Light, with comments by the AP team and our guest judge

Here are the top ten images uploaded to Photocrowd from Round Six, Night and Low Light, with comments by the AP team and our guest judge