Barrenjoey Lighthouse Astromeet 9th March 2024

Join Sony Digital Imaging Advocate Jay Evans as we prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey through the cosmos as we dive into another exhilarating Astromeet amidst the breathtaking surroundings of Barrenjoey Lighthouse, perched majestically atop the headland in Palm Beach. Nestled within the pristine expanse of Kurin-Gai Chase National Park, this promises to be an unforgettable evening of celestial exploration.

Weather permitting, this event offers a rare opportunity to capture not only the iconic vistas from the front of the lighthouse but also to venture into lesser-explored areas nearby, uncovering unique and seldom-seen compositions that will ignite your creativity.

Led by our Jay we will, delve into the fundamentals of safety, etiquette, and the art of capturing the Milky Way in all its glory. From locating the galactic center to mastering advanced capture techniques, this immersive experience will empower you to create images that truly transcend the ordinary.

As the night unfolds, navigate the challenges of astroscape lighting, including how to effectively manage the illumination from the new LED system within the lighthouse itself. Learn to harness the interplay of light and shadow to accentuate the rugged beauty of the landscape, transforming each shot into a work of art.

From the mesmerizing swirls of the Milky Way to the ethereal trails of the stars, join us as we capture the celestial symphony unfolding above until the first light of dawn graces the horizon. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable Astromeet, where every moment promises to be a testament to the wonders of the universe.

Take Note, that NSW National Parks and Wildlife are currently planning to begin renting the Keepers Cottages next to the lighthouse in the next few years, at which time access to the headland at night will likely be closed off, and so these next couple of years may be the last opportunity to really explore and capture stunning nightscapes of the Barrenjoey Headland.

NOTE: The meeting time is 11:00PM on Saturday evening and we will shoot through to early Sunday morning.

Meeting Time: Saturday 9th March 2023, 11:00PM 

Galactic Core Visible - 11:04 til 05:38 

Sunrise - 07:01 

Weather Dependent - This is a Weather Dependent event. If heavy rain or storms are forecast we will cancel or postpone the event to a later date. We will still run the event if it is cloudy, as we can have some light painting fun around the Lighthouse and surrounding headland if the skies fail to clear for us. 

Parking - Once you turn into Governor Philip Car Park at Palm Beach, park at the northern most end on the Pittwater side, near the amenities block. Use this pin to navigate to the meeting spot.

https://goo.gl/maps/nrtCqrCHCxwAPKfi9

• Night shooting safety
• Locating the Milky Way
• Quick Milky Way settings
• Focusing in the dark
• Night shooting etiquette
• Looking for the Unique
• Managing Lens Fog

• MOST IMPORTANT - Working Headlamp or torch (no mobile phone torches please!)
• A camera with Manual controls and interchangeable lenses
• Lenses suitable for astrophotography (between 12mm & 24mm preferably with f/2.8 or faster)
• Remote shutter for camera
• Sturdy Tripod
• A small towel to cover your camera
• Warm Layered clothing, beanie or other warm headwear, and warm socks/shoes or boots
• Firm and grippy footwear is strongly recommended as we will be hiking up to the lighthouse on a steep paved walking track.