Long Reef Astromeet 30th May 2025

Join Sony Digital Imaging Advocate Jay Evans for a night under the stars at one of Sydney’s most breathtaking coastal locations—Long Reef Headland on the Northern Beaches.

This iconic astro photography location offers expansive ocean views to the east, striking sandstone features, and tidal pools perfect for Milky Way reflections. Positioned away from city light pollution, Long Reef is a top pick for capturing dramatic night sky landscapes.

During this hands-on astrophotography workshop, we’ll explore the headland and surrounding rock shelf to scout compelling compositions and shoot the Milky Way, star trails, and long exposures in a rugged coastal setting. Whether you're new to night photography or refining your skills, you’ll walk away with new techniques, inspiration, and a portfolio of unique images.

What You’ll Learn

• How to plan night shoots using apps like PhotoPills & Stellarium
• Manual focus and exposure techniques for astrophotography
• Composing compelling Milky Way and star trail images
• Creative light painting and long exposure effects
• Coastal night photography safety and environmental awareness
• Tips for scouting and composing in low-light coastal terrain

Event Details

🗓 Date & Time: Friday 30th May — Meet at 7:00PM

📍 Location: Long Reef Headland Carpark, Anzac Ave, Collaroy, NSW

🚗 Parking: Free with Northern Beaches resident permit. Paid metered parking available.

📍 Google Maps Pin

🎒 What to Bring:

• Camera with manual settings
• Wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster recommended)
• Sturdy tripod
• Headlamp
• Remote shutter/intervalometer
• Extra batteries & memory cards
• Warm clothing, water & snacks
• Cleated rock fishing boots (for rockshelf access)

Astro Conditions & Itinerary

🌌 Galactic Core Visibility: 6:26PM – 5:27AM

🌦 Weather Dependent:

• If clear: Full astrophotography session including Milky Way and star trails
• If cloudy: Light painting and creative nightscape photography on the headland
• If rain/storms: The event will be postponed or cancelled with notice.

Fitness Level

🧭 Grade 2: Easy to Moderate

This event includes short walks across uneven terrain and rockshelf sections. Participants should be comfortable navigating natural surfaces in low light. Rock-safe footwear (such as cleated boots) is essential.

Sony Gear Access

Want to try out Sony mirrorless cameras or lenses? From time to time, loan gear may be available for hands-on use.

Please reach out ahead of time to request specific equipment—subject to availability.

Contribute to Event Costs

These Astro Meets are community events, but commercial operations still involve fees and licensing. To support the continuation of these nights, we kindly ask participants to consider a $10 donation on the night (cash or card via Square).

Your donation supports:

• ✅ National Park Entry Fees
• ✅ NSW Parks Eco Pass Licensing
• ✅ Local Council Commercial Activity Permits
• ✅ Public Liability Insurance
• ✅ Vehicle travel and maintenance
• ✅ Event logistics and admin

Join Us!

Whether you’re chasing the Milky Way for the first time, expanding your nightscape photography portfolio, or just looking for a creative evening in nature—this is your chance to connect, learn, and create unforgettable images.

🌠 Spots are limited – book now to secure your place!

• How to plan night shoots using apps like PhotoPills & Stellarium
• Manual focus and exposure techniques for astrophotography
• Composing compelling Milky Way and star trail images
• Creative light painting and long exposure effects
• Coastal night photography safety and environmental awareness
• Tips for scouting and composing in low-light coastal terrain

• Camera with manual settings
• Wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster recommended)
• Sturdy tripod
• Headlamp
• Remote shutter/intervalometer
• Extra batteries & memory cards
• Warm clothing, water & snacks
• Cleated rock fishing boots (for rockshelf access)