To The Moon And Back: A Simple Guide To Shooting The Stars

When you first start out on the journey to become a photographer, there’s a lot to consider. You need to find a style which sets you about from the crowd, as well as learning all the basics which go alongside the art.

There are standard routes most photographers go down in their quest. Some try landscape, while others attempt portrait. They may switch in the early days, but they soon settle on a style which suits. But, if you want to stand apart from the crowd, it might be best to try something a little different. You want to capture the world in a way that no one else is managing. So, why not try your hand at astrophotography?

This little-known art form has produced some fantastic names over recent years. On the creative side, you could look to photographers like Dave Lane of the United States. Owner of Dave Lane Astrophotography, Lane shows us what’s possible when you turn a creative eye to the night sky. The results are stunning. Or, you might want to stick with options such as Brad Goldpaint, who incorporates a realist element into his space shots by capturing land as well.

Flickr Image

Whatever your inspiration, getting started in astrophotography is no easy task. It takes the art form to a whole new level and requires you to forget whatever you know. To help you get started, we’re going to look at a few essential pointers.

Your kit makes all the difference

Obviously, kit is essential to any photographer out there. But, for you, it’s even more crucial. Cutting corners, or failing to invest in a great telescope, will leave you unable to take even a basic photo. Instead, you should do your research. Make sure you get lenses with the ability to capture crisp images.

It’s also important to ensure your telescope works with your camera. No matter how high-end your DSLR is, it won’t be able to capture space on its own. As such, you’ll need to invest in a T-adaptor which can hook it up to your telescope lens. Make sure the two work together before spending anything.

Bear in mind, too, that equipment which served you well in the past will be obsolete now. Don’t worry about stocking up on lights, because you just won’t need them.

Pexels Image

Know Your Limits

It’s also important to realise that you face new restrictions when photographing in this way. Particularly, in the beginning, you may find it difficult to capture the stars. This is because they’re near impossible to focus on. You may, instead, be better off getting yourself used to capturing the moon and planets. These are more like the stationary objects you’re used to photographing. Once you’re expert at those, you’ll be in a better position to return to the stars.

Bear in mind that, with some telescopes, you’ll never be able to capture a focused star close up. Hence, if this is something which interests you, you need to choose your equipment carefully!