23 March 2024

Astro Photography - How not to do it

 There is nothing I like more than staring at the stars. Love it.

I always marvel at the photographers that are really skilled at Astro Photography. Even just pretty pictures of the Milky Way makes me swoon. 

Now, I have never dabbled in Astro Photography because, frankly, I have always assumed that I would have to sell my car to afford the camera required to be able to do this. Then I came across this video on YouTube. 



I am instantly intrigued. 

So there I go, off to the nearest darkish area on the outskirts of Dublin to try my hand at setting up and at least focusing on some stars. 

Let's just say, my first attempts were less than spectacular.

OK, it was a disaster.

Firstly, my focus was WAAAYYYY off. I tried to focus using live view, but due to me setting up too low, it was spectacularly difficult to see anything on my fixed screen. I should have taken my time, but I was a little to rushed. Next time. So I was out of focus, my shutter was open too long, causing each of the shots to have small little star trails, and I had no warm coffee. 

Disaster.

So I went back to look for ideas, tips and tricks. There are some guys out there that are really talented, and does not mind sharing some how-to's.

So if you are looking for some resources and inspiration, feel free to go click crazy on the following links:

Anthony Lynch Photography - Stunning night photos, straight outa Ireland

How to Master Night Sky Photography 

Blog Post by Adrian Hendroff

As for me, back to the drawing board. 

If you think "It could not be that bad", for your viewing pleasure I present, the disaster:


Additional note:

Ireland is not known for it's clear skies. Since the day of the disaster a week ago, there has not been one night with clear skies. This looks like being a waiting game. It does however give me time to get my head screwed on the right way round.





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