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Despite feeling under the weather, I couldn’t resist the perfect forecast for a spot I’d been wanting to photograph for months: Baring Head Lighthouse. With high hopes, I set off, even knowing the track had some closure in the past due to fire hazards might add complications. Thankfully, no fire closure and the skies cooperated, allowing me to capture my first proper 'astrophotography image'
Baring Head Lighthouse sits in Wellington, New Zealand, overlooking the Cook Strait. The lighthouse has a rich history, first shining its light on June 17, 1935. It was the first in New Zealand to use a filament lamp powered by diesel-generated electricity. Standing 12 meters tall and 87 meters above sea level, it’s a striking sight, made even more magical under the Milky Way.
After navigating the track closure, I arrived with my new astro-modified camera, excited for my first serious outing with it. The location’s historical significance and the stunning view made the effort worthwhile.
More information about Baring Head Lighthouse can be found on the official Wellington City Website - here
Here’s a breakdown of the gear and planning that went into this shoot:
On-site, I set up the Benro Polaris Star Tracker to ensure precise alignment for long exposures. Capturing the sky required stacking 65 frames at 66 seconds each, while the foreground was a single 6-second exposure. The challenge of working with an astro-modified camera for the first time added a layer of excitement and learning.
Editing was done using a combination of PixInsight for stacking and Photoshop for final adjustments. Darks / Calibration frames helped minimize noise, while color grading brought out the vibrant details of the Milky Way. The astro-modified camera enhanced the reds in the HA regions, making the final image pop.
This image holds a special place as my first proper shoot with the astro-modified camera. The vivid colors of the Milky Way core definetely exceeded my expectations. Despite the initial challenges, the final result is a testament to the effort and preparation that went into this shoot.
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Baring Head Lighthouse is a location steeped in history and beauty, and it’s a privilege to capture it under the stars. This shoot was a learning experience and a celebration of my journey into astrophotography. I hope it inspires others to explore the night sky and preserve these moments through their lens.
If you’re captivated by this image and want to bring a piece of the night sky into your own space, I’d be happy to offer you a print (New Zealand only), a high-resolution digital version, or even a custom phone wallpaper. Your support helps me continue chasing these wonders and sharing them with you. Baring Head Lighthouse is a location steeped in history and beauty, and it’s a privilege to capture it under the stars. This shoot was a learning experience and a celebration of my journey into astrophotography. I hope it inspires others to explore the night sky and preserve these moments through their lens.
As an experienced photographer and creator, I’ll personally guide you through every step of the process—ensuring you leave inspired, confident, and equipped with the skills to create something amazing.
