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.

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

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

Burning question about the future of photography? Want to discuss a feature or a tutorial in the magazine? Then send us your letters and photos

The nights are fair drawing in so it’s over to James Roddie to shed some light on the situation

If you’re planning to enter our Urban Life round, which launches next week, take these tips from four of last year’s top ten photographers