An Intro to Astrophotography (Waikato)

Fascinated by the night sky and the Milky Way and want to learn how to capture amazing astrophotography images of your own? 

In this workshop, you'll learn the basics of how to set yourself up for success in the field with the correct settings, how to focus to get sharp shots of both the stars and foreground, and how to create unique compositions. You'll then learn the key steps to editing your astrophotography images to create amazing results with a follow-up online session.

IN THE FIELD: Saturday 3 July 5pm - approx 8.30pm

ONLINE EDITING SESSION: Monday 5 July 7.30pm - 9.30pm via Zoom

Saturday 3 July from 5pm 

We'll spend approximately 2-3 hours in the field (1 to set up and 2 to shoot your images) on Saturday evening.

Please Note: Sunday 4 July is the back up date in place in case of bad weather, so please make sure you can attend both nights if you book this event as there will be no refunds given if you are unable to attend the rescheduled evening. In the event both evenings are unsuitable to spend time in the field to capture star trails, a refund for 1/2 the workshop will be available, as the online editing session will still proceed.

Monday 5 July 7.30pm - 9.30pm

This will be followed up by an online editing session via Zoom on Monday 5th July from 7.30pm-9.30pm to show you how to successfully edit your astrophotography images in Lightroom and Photoshop and using specific astro programmes such as Starry Landscape Stacker.

You don't need a Sony camera to attend this event, but a selection of Sony cameras and lenses may be available to try during the evening. Please message me if there is anything specific you would like to try.

• The equipment needed to successfully shoot astrophotography 
• The best settings to use 
• Getting your composition and focus right 
• How to edit your images in Lightroom and Photoshop (and other astro specific programmes)

• Camera and your widest angle lens (I recommend 16-20mm for a full frame camera or 10-12mm for a crop sensor camera) 
• Fully charged battery as your camera will be shooting for up to 2 hours. Alternatively strap on an extra battery pack or plug in a powerbank. 
• STURDY Tripod 
• Torch or head torch 
• Remote control 
• Warm gear - hat, jacket, gloves, footwear 
• Snacks and water 
• For the editing component via Zoom: computer with Lightroom installed 
• A willingness to learn and a sense of fun and adventure!