Workshop Location:
New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for this hands-on astrophotography workshop. From remote beaches to rolling hills under pristine dark skies, you’ll learn in locations that showcase the beauty of the night.
Workshop Overview
Step into the world of astrophotography and learn how to capture the magic of the stars. This beginner-friendly workshop focuses on helping you understand the fundamentals while guiding you through a complete shooting and editing process.
What You’ll Learn
Astrophotography Basics:
- Understanding the night sky: identifying stars, constellations, and celestial events
- How light pollution affects your images and choosing the best shooting locations
- Camera settings for astrophotography: ISO, shutter speed, aperture, and white balance
Essential Equipment:
- DSLR or mirrorless camera basics and selecting the right lenses
- Introduction to star trackers: why and how to use them
- Tripod and other must-have accessories for stable shots
Planning Your Shoot:
- Using apps like Stellarium, PhotoPills, and Sky Guide to track celestial events
- Planning for the Milky Way season and moon phases
- Weather and location scouting tips
Hands-On Shooting Session:
- Setting up your gear in the field
- Composing your shots for impactful storytelling
- Troubleshooting issues like focus, lens fogging, and image noise
Post-Processing Basics:
- Introduction to editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop)
- How to enhance your images with basic adjustments (exposure, contrast, color)
- Removing noise and achieving clean, vibrant night sky photos
Workshop Format
Pre-Workshop Preparation:
- A 30-60 minute virtual or in-person orientation session to discuss gear, answer questions, and help participants feel ready.
Evening Session:
- Meet at the designated location in New Zealand (specific sites can vary—such as Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, or other dark sky reserves).
- Start with a short presentation on astrophotography basics.
- Guided setup of equipment, followed by a hands-on shooting session.
Post-Shoot Editing Session:
- Editing session the next morning or virtually.
- Step-by-step guidance on editing your photos for maximum impact.
- Export Settings for Social Media and Website
- Export Settings for Prints
Who’s It For?
This workshop is perfect for:
- Beginners curious about astrophotography who may have never shot the night sky before
- Photographers looking to explore the basics of night photography and light editing
- Travelers or nature enthusiasts who want to capture their memories under New Zealand’s starry skies
What You’ll Need to Bring
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settingsA sturdy tripod (If you don't have one I can arrange one for you)A wide-angle lens (recommended: f/2.8 or lower aperture)Remote shutter release or intervalometer (optional but helpful)Warm clothing, snacks, and a flashlight or headlamp with a red light mode
Pricing and Inclusions
Price: POA
Includes:
- Workshop materials (gear checklist, cheat sheets for camera settings)
- Access to private editing resources post-workshop
- Light refreshments during the session
- Additional discount for my One-on-one mentoring sessions
- Additional discount for my Printed workshop photos or digital copies of before-and-after edits
