Lago Ranco at night

I like it! If I were to change anything, I would have the galaxy aiming at the top right corner, versus off to the left. Not sure if that's possible from where the picture was taken. Panning up and showing more stars may do what I describe.

As for the black on the bottom ... I'm of two minds here. On the one hand it tells a story (or lets my imagination go). I feel like I am on a journey to that village. On the other hand, that looks like a beautiful sky and it's a shame to cut it off.

Great job! I think everything about the stars in this shot is very well done, with the possible exception of Thomas' point on composition. The Milky Way doesn't feel over processed, and the stars are sharp and frozen. The only thing lacking for me here is some sort of foreground element, but you acknowledged that in your post. The town offers a bit in the mid-ground, though I think some of the lights are blown out. I think you could either pan up and make the town the foreground interest. You could also get closer to the water and see if the reflections add anything, or find some intersting rocks or other landscape to provide balance at the bottom of the image. Overall though, well done capturing the Milky Way!

great shot on the MW however the the lights from the town are a bit distracting. did you take more than one shot to basically bracket for proper exposures in distinct areas?