Nightscape Workshops
Have you been captivated by the stunning Milky Way photos filling your newsfeed, wondering if you too can capture such breathtaking images? Perhaps you've already dabbled in astrophotography and are eager to elevate your skills to new heights.
If you resonate with these sentiments, my Weekend Workshop offers the perfect opportunity. Nestled in the tranquil countryside just a few hours north of Sydney in the picturesque town of Gresford, our workshop provides a comfortable and relaxed environment where you can delve into the art of Nightscape photography alongside a small group of like-minded enthusiasts.
Gresford's scenic landscape, characterized by beautiful green rolling hills and unparalleled dark skies, creates an idyllic setting for mastering Nightscape Photography. Our exclusive property features six separate bedrooms, ensuring an intimate learning experience with a maximum of only five attendees at each workshop. Each participant enjoys the luxury of a private room, and couples are more than welcome, with several rooms designed to accommodate them.
In addition to the immersive learning experience, our on-site amenities include a games room, a refreshing pool and spa, and encounters with some of the region's remarkable local wildlife. To enhance your overall experience, we've included breakfast and dinner in the workshop package.
The comprehensive workshop is designed to cover all facets of Nightscape Photography, providing participants with a holistic understanding of this captivating art form. Throughout the course, you will gain essential skills such as precise focusing techniques, optimal exposure time calculations, the art of composition in low-light conditions, and the process of capturing stunning star trails.
With two nights dedicated to shooting under the expansive and unpolluted dark skies of our property, participants will have ample time to practice and refine their newfound knowledge. The intimate group size ensures that each attendee benefits from personalized attention, allowing for extensive one-on-one interactions to address individual questions and concerns.
During daylight hours, the workshop extends its focus to the post-processing phase. Even if you are new to the process, rest assured that I will guide you step-by-step in RAW image processing. The knowledge gained in this area is not limited to Nightscape Photography; you will also discover how to apply these techniques to enhance your conventional landscape images.
However, it's not just about the learning experience. Amidst the educational sessions, you'll have the opportunity to unwind and enjoy the fantastic amenities the property has to offer, including a pool, spa, and a games room. The lush surroundings also host an array of captivating local wildlife, providing a delightful break from the workshop activities.
Passion drives my commitment to providing a rewarding learning experience for workshop attendees. I derive immense satisfaction from sharing my knowledge, ensuring that participants not only learn but also thoroughly enjoy the process. To enhance your workshop experience, I continuously reinvest in resources, amassing a collection of gear that participants can readily access.
For your convenience, a variety of lenses compatible with Nikon, Canon, and Sony cameras are available for borrowing during the workshop. This diverse selection allows participants to experiment with different equipment and discover what works best for their unique creative visions. Additionally, timer remotes tailored for shooting star trails and battery chargers compatible with most camera brands are at your disposal, eliminating any concerns about equipment compatibility.
In a bid to push the boundaries of Nightscape Photography, I have introduced tracking mounts into the workshop's arsenal. These cutting-edge tools empower participants to elevate their skills further and capture celestial scenes with unprecedented precision.
My commitment extends beyond the workshop's educational aspects. It's about creating an immersive and enjoyable environment where participants can delve into their passion for Nightscape Photography. Your learning experience is not just about the knowledge shared but also about the hands-on exploration facilitated by the availability of top-notch equipment.
These workshops present a distinctive opportunity to delve into the realms of nightscape photography and astronomy under the guidance of one of Australia's foremost amateur astronomers. As your instructor, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table, offering a unique blend of expertise that sets these workshops apart. Participants will not only gain insights into the intricacies of capturing the night sky but will also benefit from firsthand experiences shared by a leading figure in the Australian amateur astronomy community. Join me for an unparalleled learning journey that combines technical mastery with a profound understanding of the celestial wonders above.
Dates for 2024
- April: Friday 5th to Sunday 7th This is the first workshop for 2024 and should be the best for shooting. The early evening will be spent learning focus and composition techniques and we will be ready for the galactic center when it rises. This workshop will be held at the Gresford property.
- May: Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th. The Milky Way's center is visible from Sunset all night and presents the perfect opportunity to capture its beauty. It will also be a great weekend for learning about a star tracker as I will have it available if anyone is interested. This workshop will be held at the Gresford property.
- June: Friday 7th to Sunday 9th The Milky Way will be up after sunset and easy to find. We will have some great opportunities to capture the Milky Way and the sight of the galactic centre overhead is astounding. This workshop will be held at the Gresford property.
- July: Friday, July 5th to Monday 7th This is the last chance to capture the rising galactic core. It will also be the first chance to capture the Setting Milky Way to the west for 2024 by rising early before sunrise. We will be shooting to the east of town on Friday, At the ATNF on Saturday, and Sunday will be spent in and around the Warrumbungles Mountains. I will also have an 18" telescope for visual Observing as well as a couple of equatorial and tracking mounts. It will be a great opportunity to get a shot of a Nebula as well as look through a giant telescope. This workshop will be held at Coonabarabran. The fee for this workshop is $650 Per Person
- August: Thursday 29th to Saturday 31st to be confirmed.
- September: Cancelled due to other commitments
- October: Cancelled due to other commitments
The fee for the workshop is $950 and includes the accommodation and breakfasts. Couples can come as several rooms have queen beds and ensuites. The fee for a couple is $1700 if both attend the workshop sessions and $1300 if only one attends.
