AU NZ

Events, photo walks, talks from the masters, in-depth workshops. Expand your horizons with one of our many events across Australia.

Starting Never Ends is the one place for all Sony camera mini-sites. Learn about all new Sony camera products in a fun interactive way.

Events, photo walks, talks from the masters, in-depth workshops. Expand your horizons with one of our many events across Australia.

Starting Never Ends is the one place for all Sony camera mini-sites. Learn about all new Sony camera products in a fun interactive way.

AU NZ
Learn how to photograph the night sky with this three-part workshop

About the event

Always wanted to capture the Milky Way but don't know where to start? Or you've tried and the results haven't been amazing? We've designed this workshop for beginner astro photographers: to take you from zero astro knowledge to being able to capture at least one awesome astro photo to impress friends and family. 

Wellington-based astro and landscape photographer Chris McKeown, and supported by Sony Advocate Rebecca McMillan, will guide you through what's required to plan, shoot, and process stunning images of the incredible night sky in Wellington.

We will start with an online introductory tutorial briefing on Sunday 17th August (evening), to discuss settings and camera gear, answer questions and confirm the meetup location for the Thursday evening workshop. 

On Thursday 21 August we will meet from 7.30pm on Wellington's South Coast to capture the night sky. (A rain check date will be advised if required, and we have pencilled Friday 22 August). The following evening we will host an online tutorial to demonstrate how to process your images, with time for Q&A.

We also have the opportunity to access Sony cameras for the workshop: please get in touch with the organisers at least two weeks ahead of the event if you would like to borrow gear for this workshop.

Workshop summary

  • Online two-hour introductory tutorial on Sunday 17 August (Zoom details will be sent out to registered attendees)
  • In person three-hour workshop on South Coast of Wellington on 21 August from 7.30pm to 10.30pm
  • Online two-hour tutorial on the 22 August to demonstrate how to process your images

About Chris McKeown

Chris moved from Scotland to Aotearoa New Zealand in 2002 and immediately fell in love with photographing the landscape. Over the past decade, he’s captured the earth, the sea, the stars, and the people who live beneath them.  His images have been nominated for awards, published in magazines, featured in hospital murals, and sold as fine art prints and canvases. His annual calendar sells out each year and has raised thousands of dollars for charity. Chris is an avid astrophotographer who spends long nights around Wellington, Taranaki, Queenstown, and Lake Tekapo chasing the stillness of the night sky. 

Techniques covered

  • Where to go to get the best images 
  • Planning an astrophotography shoot (apps and tools) 
  • Best camera, lenses, tripods, and other gear 
  • Making the most of your equipment 
  • What to look for in the sky 
  • Processing images to get the best shots 
  • Why looking up can make for a better, calmer life

What to bring

  • Camera (ideally a full frame camera, but crop sensor will be fine as well)
  • The widest lens you have available (i.e. 14mm, 24mm)
  • Tripod (we will have a couple of spare, please let us know in advance if you may need to borrow one)
  • Head torch (ideally with a red light setting)
  • Warm clothes for the South Coast 

Event FAQs (For general FAQs, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions page)

Please get in touch with the organisers at least two weeks ahead of the event if you would like to borrow gear for this workshop: rebecca@rebeccamcmillanphotography.co.nz
Please wear plenty of layers for cold night conditions including a hat and gloves.
Yes, we will advise the final location on the briefing call
Yes, a minimum of five attendees are required for this workshop to go ahead.
We will be moving around uneven terrain in the dark on Wellington's South Coast
The practical session is weather dependent, and will be held on an alternative day if the weather is bad on the day.

NZ$50 deposit payable via Sony Scene to secure a spot.
Balance Due Date: 01/01/0001

Payment for the remaining balance should be made directly to the host. They will be in contact with you shortly to provide the payment details and further instructions.

Advocate

Rebecca McMillan

Kia ora, I'm Rebecca; a Wellington-based NZIPP-accredited professional photographer and proud Sony shooter.I'm a visual communicator and content creator with a ...

Read more

A fantastic session packed with handy tips and practical experience. There was something for everyone, whatever their goals or skill level.”

Cherie Mcquilkin, Portraits that Pop!
The Royal Family Portrait
City to Sea Bridge

Informative, friendly and will help produce better results.”

Adam Vickers, Awesome Astro: Online Intro
Event capacity: 10
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