Introduction to Landscape and Deep-Sky Astrophotography

In this presentation, you’ll learn how to capture landscape and deep-sky astrophotography images of the Milky Way, the Aurora Borealis, star trails, the moon, distant galaxies, comets, and more using a DSLR or mirrorless camera and even a smartphone! Our presenter, Mike Shaw, will explore the top landscape and deep-sky astrophotography subjects and the best times of year to capture them. Mike will talk about the basic astrophotography gear you need and how to set it up: lens choice, focusing tips, composition techniques, exposure settings, and more. A host of useful apps that can help you plan your astrophotography sessions for maximum productivity will also be reviewed. The program will conclude with a few astrophotography-specific, post- processing tips that can bring out the best in your images. Launch your journey into space in this knowledge-packed program, and learn how to bring home spectacular souvenirs to share with your family and friends.

Our Presenter
Mike Shaw has enthusiastically taught night photography since he created his astrophotography education business in 2010. He is the author of several night photography books, including his most recent, “The Beginner’s Guide to Astrophotography” (2023). Mike’s field workshops take him and his students around the globe, searching for the darkest, clearest skies. Mike co-created Planit Pro’s video tutorials, provides astronomy training to the US National Park Service, co-created the Night Photography lessons in Adobe Lightroom Academy, taught night photography and time-lapse classes in the Bryan Peterson School of Photography, and led an interactive Nightscapes Star Party Live! weekly on Slooh.com. He licenses his work through Science Photo Library in London. Mike is a delegate to the International Dark Sky Association and is an active member of the Minnesota Astronomical Society and the Astronomical League.

Recording: Mike Shaw – Nightscapes & Deep-Sky Astrophotography for Beginners