#astrophotography expeditions

[hikercarl]

Best Hiking Trails for Stargazing

Discover the best hiking trails for stargazing across the US. We'll guide you to dark sky spots perfect for celestial observation and unforgettable stargazing hikes.

Hiking at night is a new adventure, even for experienced hikers. As the sun sets, daytime animals hide, and nocturnal ones emerge. Owls, raccoons, bats, and bears start their evening activities. Frogs and fireflies light up the night sky. The night sky slowly reveals its beauty. It takes about an hour after sunset to see the full show. Find the best trails for stargazing in America and enjoy…

[dame-de-pique]

Solar corona - Sept 21st 1922

+++

[silvereyedowl]

[source]

Comet Lovejoy and the ISS

Credits: CarlosCaccia, ISS Expedition 30

[lornight]

Howdy,

My name is Hash, I'm 24, and I'm studying Archaeology in Yorkshire, UK. I'm passionate about astrophotography, fencing, baseball, and caving. When I'm not on a dig, I love delving into crime cases and exploring the paranormal. I've also started learning sign language recently.

I'm excited to connect with someone who shares similar interests or can introduce me to new adventures. I'd love to hear about your favourite archaeological interests and any dreams you have about future explorations. Is there an archaeological site that holds a special allure for you, one that you think would be perfect for a romantic date?

I'm thrilled to hear from you and delve into your life, interests, and passions. Our journey together is just beginning, and Getting to know you is like embarking on an expedition, where each letter is a new artefact to discover. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "It is not the length of life, but the depth of life." Despite the distance, I believe we can create a meaningful connection through our letters, who knows, maybe one day we'll embark on these exciting journeys together!

Tumblr: Lornight

[tourmyholidayholiday]

Chopta Tour Packages for Photography Enthusiasts

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Chopta is a dream destination for photography enthusiasts. Known as the "Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand," Chopta offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, serene trekking routes, and majestic Himalayan peaks. Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, Chopta provides countless opportunities to capture nature at its best.

This guide explores Chopta Tour Packages specifically designed for photography enthusiasts, covering key spots like Tungnath Temple Trek, Chandrashila Summit Trek, and Deoriatal Camping Packages to ensure you return with stunning visuals and unforgettable memories.

Why Choose Chopta for Photography?

Diverse Landscapes: From snow-clad mountains to lush meadows and dense forests, Chopta offers a variety of backdrops.

Rich Biodiversity: Spot rare birds, Himalayan animals, and vibrant flora.

Golden Sunrises: Witness the first rays of the sun touching peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba.

Cultural Charm: Capture the spiritual essence of places like Tungnath Temple and Chandrashila Summit.

With specialized Chopta Trekking Tour Packages, photographers can explore and document the region’s unparalleled beauty.

Top Photography Locations in Chopta

1. Tungnath Temple Trek

The highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath offers awe-inspiring vistas and a spiritual vibe.

Photography Highlights: Architectural details of the ancient temple, panoramic views of the Himalayan range, and vibrant sunsets.

Combine with: Tungnath Trekking Guide for the best photo spots.

2. Chandrashila Summit Trek

At 4,000 meters, Chandrashila provides a 360-degree view of the snow-capped peaks.

Photography Highlights: Golden hour shots of Himalayan ranges, starry night skies, and thrilling snow-trek landscapes.

Best suited for: Adventure Tours in Chopta and Winter Trekking in Uttarakhand.

3. Deoriatal Lake

Known for its mirror-like reflection of Chaukhamba Peak, Deoriatal is a paradise for nature photography.

Photography Highlights: Lake reflections, blooming rhododendrons, and birdlife.

Combine with: Deoriatal Camping Packages for sunrise and sunset captures.

Best Chopta Tour Packages for Photographers

1. Budget Chopta Packages

Affordable tours for solo photographers and small groups.

Inclusions: Shared transport, basic accommodation, and guided treks.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Chopta Tungnath Trek and Chandrashila Trek.

2. Chopta Camping Packages

Experience the raw beauty of Chopta by camping under the stars.

Inclusions: Tented accommodation, bonfires, and meals.

Recommended for: Astrophotography and landscape shots during golden hours.

3. Group Chopta Tours

Ideal for photography clubs or groups.

Features: Dedicated guides, customized itineraries, and shared accommodations.

4. Corporate Chopta Packages

Designed for team-building photography expeditions.

Features: Combined trekking and photography workshops.

Seasonal Highlights for Photography

Winter (December to March)

Chopta Winter Trek: Perfect for snow photography and capturing the frost-laden landscapes.

Tungnath Temple Trek: Experience the temple amidst a blanket of snow.

Chandrashila Summit: Snow-topped peaks and clear, star-filled night skies.

Spring (March to May)

Deoriatal Camping Packages: Capture blooming rhododendron forests.

Chopta Tungnath Trek: Vibrant greenery and clear skies.

Monsoon (June to September)

Best time for macro photography with blooming flowers and misty backdrops.

Autumn (October to November)

Perfect for wide-angle shots of crisp landscapes and colorful forests.

Tips for Capturing the Best Shots

Pack Proper Gear: Carry a DSLR or mirrorless camera, wide-angle lenses, and a tripod.

Plan Sunrise and Sunset Shots: These are the best times for dramatic lighting.

Dress Appropriately: The cold weather can be challenging; wear layered clothing.

Hire a Guide: A local guide can help you find hidden photography spots.

Respect Nature: Follow eco-friendly practices to preserve the pristine beauty of Chopta.

Sample Chopta Trek Itinerary for Photographers

Day 1: Arrival at Chopta

Set up base camp and capture the golden hour.

Explore local flora and fauna.

Day 2: Tungnath Temple Trek

Early morning trek to Tungnath.

Capture the temple’s intricate architecture and surrounding peaks.

Stay overnight for astrophotography.

Day 3: Chandrashila Summit Trek

Trek to Chandrashila for sunrise shots.

Capture 360-degree panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Day 4: Deoriatal Camping

Visit Deoriatal Lake for serene reflection shots.

Wrap up with evening photography and a cozy campfire.

Adventure Trekking in Uttarakhand: Why Chopta Stands Out

Chopta, with its serene landscapes and proximity to iconic treks, is an excellent destination for combining adventure with photography. Chopta Trekking Packages from Delhi make it easier for city-dwellers to access this gem.

With options for Best Trekking Packages, Chandrashila Trekking Package, and Chopta Group Tour Packages, photographers can choose itineraries that suit their preferences and expertise.

Conclusion

Chopta is a haven for photographers seeking to capture the raw beauty of the Himalayas. With specialized Chopta Tour Packages, including Chopta Camping Packages, Deoriatal Camping Packages, and Budget Chopta Packages, this destination caters to every photographer's dream.

Whether it’s the snow-covered trails of Tungnath Temple Trek, the panoramic views of Chandrashila Summit Trek, or the tranquil beauty of Deoriatal, Chopta offers an unforgettable experience for photography enthusiasts. Plan your journey today and let the lens do the talking!

[sofia-the-traveller]

New Year, New Perspectives: Unveiling Matheran’s Scenic Beauty Through Photography Expeditions

Introduction:

As the New Year dawns, Matheran beckons to photography enthusiasts, offering a canvas of breathtaking landscapes waiting to be captured. Nestled in the Western Ghats, this quaint hill station is a haven for those seeking to explore nature’s beauty through the lens. In this blog, we embark on a visual journey, discovering the charm of Matheran through photography expeditions that promise not only stunning images but also a fresh perspective on the world as we enter a new year.

Golden Hours and Sunrise Magic:

Kickstart your photographic adventure by capturing the magical hues of sunrise. Matheran’s elevated terrain offers panoramic views as the sun bathes the landscape in warm, golden tones. Venture to vantage points like Panorama Point or Louisa Point, where the first light of the year paints the sky in a symphony of colors, creating a perfect opportunity for capturing the serene beauty of dawn.

Lush Landscapes and Verdant Vistas:

Matheran boasts lush greenery and dense forests that provide ample opportunities for capturing the rich biodiversity. Explore the network of walking trails, each unveiling a new perspective of the landscape. From macro photography of vibrant flowers to wide-angle shots of sprawling valleys, Matheran’s scenic beauty becomes a playground for photographers seeking diversity in their portfolio.

Matheran’s Charming Villages:

The quaint villages of Matheran, with their rustic charm and cultural vibrancy, are a treasure trove for candid photography. Engage with the locals, capture the essence of village life, and document the unique traditions that define the community. The warmth of the people and the authenticity of their daily routines offer compelling subjects for storytelling through your lens.

Monochrome Magic in Charlotte Lake:

Venture to Charlotte Lake, Matheran’s principal water source, and capture the reflections of the surrounding hills in the calm waters. Experiment with monochrome photography to bring out the timeless beauty of this natural reservoir. The interplay of light and shadow on the lake’s surface provides a captivating canvas for evocative and soulful images.

Starlit Nights and Astrophotography:

As the day gives way to night, Matheran’s pollution-free skies unveil a spectacular celestial display. Set up your camera for astrophotography, capturing the brilliance of the stars against the backdrop of the Western Ghats. Away from city lights, Matheran offers an ideal setting to explore the cosmos through your lens, creating mesmerizing images of the night sky.

Conclusion:

To elevate your New Year’s photography expeditions in Matheran, consider making Adamo The Village your base — renowned as the best hotel in Matheran. Nestled amidst nature, this village-style resort provides a perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm, creating an ideal haven for photographers seeking inspiration. Staying with Adamo The Village offers not only proximity to Matheran’s scenic wonders but also a serene retreat after a day of exploration. So, gear up with your camera equipment, let your creativity flourish, and capture the timeless beauty of Matheran with a renewed passion for photography, all while enjoying the warm hospitality and cozy ambiance of Adamo The Village.

[warrenbreakwell]

Telescopes For All Levels Of Astronomers

Exploring the mysteries of deep space has constantly been a fascinating quest for humanity. Fortunately, we stay in an era where sophisticated innovation enables us to bring the universe's wonders closer than in the past. 

The Curious Newbie 

Whether you are a curious newbie or a sophisticated stargazer, finding the best telescope to start this planetary experience is less complicated than ever. In this write-up, we will explore the prevalent versions in 2023, ensuring a telescope exists for astronomers of all levels.

Telescopes for novices have come to be progressively preferred throughout the years as an increasing number of ambitious astronomers are mesmerized by the attraction of the evening skies. Inviting newcomers to the area, these telescopes provide simplicity without compromising quality. 

Top-Quality Telescope Brands

Several top-quality telescope brands have gathered a solid following for the innovative astronomers yearning for absolutely nothing yet the best. Amongst these, the Meade Instruments LX90-ACF stands high. With its advanced optics, electronic radar, and professional-grade installation, this telescope is a dream come true for serious stargazers. 

Its premium functions and performance make it an exceptional financial investment for skilled astronomers who seek remarkable clarity and the capacity to check out the universe without limitations.

Unlimited Choice

Telescopes for all degrees of experience are now readily available, and the year 2023 has revealed remarkable improvements in this field. From telescopes created for newbies to those tailored for sophisticated astronomers, the choices are genuinely unlimited. 

Producers have identified the expanding need for varied models, making particular enthusiasts discover the ideal telescope to fit their demands, no matter their experience degree.

Telescopes are available for astronomers at all skill levels, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts. The type of telescope that's best for you depends on your experience, budget, and the observing you want to do. 

Here's a breakdown of telescope types for different levels of astronomers

Beginner Astronomers:

Dobsonian Telescopes: These are great entry-level telescopes known for their simplicity and affordability. They have a large aperture and are easy to set up, making them perfect for observing the moon, planets, and some deep-sky objects.

Refractor Telescopes: These use lenses to gather and focus light. They're relatively low-maintenance and provide sharp images, making them ideal for lunar, planetary, and some deep-sky observing.

Reflector Telescopes: Also known as Newtonian telescopes, these use mirrors to gather and focus light. They offer good value for money and are suitable for various observations.

Intermediate Astronomers:

Compound Telescopes (Cassegrains, Maksutovs): These telescopes combine lenses and mirrors to provide compact designs with good magnification capabilities. They're versatile and well-suited for planetary and deep-sky observations.

Computerized Telescopes (GoTo): These telescopes have computerized mounts that automatically locate and track celestial objects. They're convenient for finding objects but are complex for beginners.

Advanced Astronomers:

Apochromatic Refractors: These high-quality refractors provide excellent color correction, making them ideal for astrophotography and observing deep-sky objects with crisp details.

Large Dobsonian Telescopes: For those who want to delve deeper into astronomy, large Dobsonians with substantial apertures are great for observing faint galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

Astrophotography Equipment: Advanced astronomers interested in astrophotography will need not only a telescope but also a solid equatorial mount, a high-quality camera, an autoguiding system, and other accessories.

Wide Variety of Telescopes

Finally, the prevalent versions in 2023 have undoubtedly expanded the perspectives of huge expeditions for every person, from interested beginners to advanced stargazers. 

Many thanks to the wide variety of telescopes readily available on the market and the constant advancements in modern technology, aspiring astronomers can start an inspiring trip through the universe. 

Remember that starting with a telescope matching your experience and goals is essential, no matter your skill level. Consider factors such as portability, maintenance, ease of use, and the types of objects you want to observe. 

It's also a good idea to join local astronomy clubs or online forums to get advice from experienced astronomers and learn more about different telescope options.

So, whether you are aiming your look towards the moon and also the earth or seeking far-off galaxies, there is a telescope available waiting to open the mysteries of the universe for you. 

Happy stargazing!

[astromana]

The Soyuz MS-10 spacecraft is launched with Expedition 57 Flight Engineer Nick Hague of NASA and Flight Engineer Alexey Ovchinin of Roscosmos, Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. During the Soyuz spacecraft's climb to orbit, an anomaly occurred, resulting in an abort downrange. The crew was quickly recovered and is in good condition. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

[traverse-our-universe]

“The International Space Station is the largest object ever constructed by humans in space. The station perimeter extends over roughly the area of a football field, although only a small fraction of this is composed of modules habitable by humans. The station is so large that it could not be launched all at once -- it continues to be built piecemeal.” (read more at APOD/NASA)

Credit: STS-132 Crew, Expedition 23 Crew, NASA

[beautyandtheuniverse]

Earth Observation taken during a night pass by the Expedition 40 crew aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

[cavedsgn]

Undisturbed Places - A Timelapse Film

[rickmayphotos]

What’s in my Bag

This is the most asked question I get. So, I thought that since I recently finished 11 days up in the Canadian Rockies, in the dead of Winter, I’d share what was in my bag, and why. 

First, I needed a bag that I could carry, that would stand up to the rigors of the cold AND would  protect my gear. For these types of trips, my go to is the Tamrac Expedition 9X. No longer made, this is a staple in my collection for the above the reasons.

Bodies

Knowing I was going to be doing some heavy astrophotography and landscapes, I took two Sony ar7iii’s, and one Sony a9. 

I always travel with an extra body because you never know what might happen. It’s also nice to have a spare body in case my primary is being used for a time-lapse or video. Additionally, the ability to have a different lens on each is great in rough environments when I would rather not expose my sensor to elements with a lens change (like the snow blown frozen lake for example). The Scout motto still rings true: Be Prepared.

What? An a9? Yup.

As a sports photographer, I always have a fast body\lens combo with me as you NEVER know when you’ll need it. Once, and ONLY once - I traveled and regretted not having the right gear with me. I vowed to never let that happen again.

With the ar7iii, I get incredible resolution, use and functionality. With my a9, I had speed.

Go Pro Hero 6:

I just love having a small, compact video tool that can take a quick snap. During times fo waiting, I can transfer and edit directly on my iPhone, ready to post at days end.

Lens

I did some research and made sure I had a great wide open lens for my astrophotography efforts. My Sony 24mm didn’t arrive in time - (it came the day after I left), so I opted for the Zeiss 18mm Batis. Stunningly sharp, this lens never left a body. I had no idea how light this lens was. It feels as if there was nothing there - but oh the images. Simply stunning! 

I also brought the Sony G Master 16-35mm, which offered flexibility, tack sharp images across the range of focal lengths and was light.

Just as a precaution, I added the Sony 24-105 F/4 to my bag. There is something about having one lens to cover virtually everything. I think  this is a holdover from my days with Nikon. None the less, I enjoyed having it as it provided a small measure of peace of mind.

I mentioned above that I brought the a9. There was no way I was carrying my 400 f/2.8, but I added the 100-400mm, and was I ever glad I did! Compact, light and with incredible reach, I was ready for anything the trip through at us - camera wise.

I gave careful consideration to both my 24-70mm and the 70-200mm, f/2.8’s. Knowing I had a sports event I had to covert the day I returned meant I opted to keep these safe and at home.

Lights

The original plan had us heading up to Jasper to shoot the ice caves. Unfortunately, the weather had other pans as we had over 50cm of snow, closing the road after the Saskatchewan crossing. My vision was to use the Sony HVL-F60RM’s, blog with Honl Lighting gels to create an otherworldly scene.

I also brought along the Westcott Ice Light, again planning to use it to creatively add light to the scene.

Honl Light gels, in rool-ups. I have over 64 colors at my disposal in easy to use gels. If you haven’t seen these, visit Honl Lighting.  Dave developed these after his years as a correspondent and it shows. Killer gear, great effects.

Batteries

All of my cameras have hand held grips, which allows for dual batteries. Still, being winter, I opted to bring four additional batteries - just in case. You can never be too prepared!

Memory Cards

Sony TOUGH & Sony G SD Memory Cards: I exclusively use the Sony TOUGH and ultra-fast Sony G SD memory cards. I’ve yet to have one fail and the read/write speeds do more than keep up with the demands of my cameras and the environments I use them in.

Extra Batteries: One of my favorite upgrades to the Sony α7R III was the inclusion of the newer Sony Z batteries. I’ll often  be able to get through a whole day of shooting with my α7R III with just one battery, but it’s still always a good idea to bring along a few spares.

GITZO Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod and A Really Right Stuff Ball Head

Any long exposure photography, astrophotography, time-lapses, etc. – they all require a tripod to alleviate camera shake. This one is great because of its compact size and weight, which is important for travel and long carry. When I need extra weight, I’ll hang my bag from the hook below the center column for added stability.

Assorted Lens Filters from B&W, Hoya and Lee: Primarily polarizing and neutral density filters (and a few step up rings to minimize the number of filters needed for different lens thread sizes) are key ingredients in my kit. These filters help to cut glare, create proper exposures in camera, slow shutter speeds, and so much more.

Apple 15” MacBook Pro 

Besides my camera and lenses, this is the next most important element in my kit. All of my post-processing is done in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.

Apple iPad Pro (2nd Gen)

On long trips, I load up with movies, music and reading material. It’s lighter, fast and so easy to edit a few images during down time and when I don[t have the space for my MBP.

Lacie Rugged Hard DriveI

 I travel with multiple hard drives that I store my RAW files and  Lightroom catalog on. Even when I’m traveling, I like to keep a backup in case of drive failure. Assuming I have internet access, my computer and drives are also backed up to cloud storage.

Headlamp

Whether it be for lighting a trail, just around camp after dark or helping me find something in my bag when light fades, a headlamp is an integral part of any outdoor photographer’s kit.

Lens Cleaning Kit

Keeping the optics clean is simply essential, especially when I’m subjecting it to some pretty gnarly environments sometimes. I’d much rather spend a few minutes cleaning my lenses and blowing out dust on my sensor ahead of time rather than hours of spot removal in post.

Beanie/Gloves

In cold weather, these are key. I actually can recommend the following if you are headed to extreme cold. Not only were my hands warm, but I was able to use my fingers for fine tuning as well. 

Hand Warmers  

I use these for either their intended use (keeping my hands warm) or sometimes to keep my batteries warm, helping to extend battery life in cold climates. I also tape several feet of gaffer tape around my tripod legs, so that I can wrap these around my battery grip.

Bose QC-35 Headphones 

The best headphones I’ve ever owned, hands down. They’re comfortable for extended wear (long flights, for example) and have incredible noise cancellation, which is key to getting some rest or listening to hours of my electronic Jax, chill and ambient tunes on international flights without being interrupted by engine noise or screaming babies.

Passport 

Like my American Express, I never leave home without it (on a trip). I’m not going far without it.

Not many think of this last pieces  as essential, but I don’t shoot without it - Insurance.

My company, Taylor & Taylor ROCKS! Anytime I am on the road, I let them know and should anything bad happen, I’m covered. No questions asked. Not to mention my liability coverages exceeds most job requests.

Advil

Sitting on ice, shooting multiple sports, hiking miles into the backcountry - this helps alleviate the aches and pains.

[perusummit]

Impressive starry sky from one of the camp sites in AUSANGATE TREK. Book your spot today for our 2019 trips and click in our bio👈👈👈 for more adventure inspiration. . Follow @perusummit . . . . . . . . . . . . . #Peru #hiking #camping #outdoors #expedition #picoftheday #hike #instagood  #journey #instapic #incatrail #MachuPicchu #Cusco #perusummit #travel #adventure #wanderlust #tour #vacation #follow4follow #nature #trip #ausangatetrek #igtravel #rainbowmountain #ausangate #mountain #astrophotography #milkyway #landscape (en Ausangate Trail / Rainbow Mountains) https://www.instagram.com/p/BrblhAln_rh/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=9zp35880pdt7

[weatherandsky]

Happy 🇨🇦 Thanksgiving 🦃 everyone! I hope many of you are enjoying time with family and friends this weekend. This image was taken back in the summer. My daughter and I went for a mini expedition to find this sunflower field that was supposedly nearby. Well we found it and took many day time pictures under the full sunshine. At night, I was joined by @simoneherrlingerphotography to try to pictures of it with the Milky Way. As many of you know, It's not easy to get the Milky Way and the sunflowers pointing in a flattering direction at the same time without compositing.. something we both didn't do. Also as the night progressed they started to face downwards to sleep. However, a few 🌻 stayed up later so I could capture this image. There were some challenges with the car lights as we were on the edge of a main road but overall I think we handled the situation well and had a really nice time. Canon R6, Canon 24 to 105mm @ f28mm and f4. Iso 6400. A little focus stacking was essential. _________________ #weatherandskyphotography #astrophotography #universetoday #astrophoto #nightsky #NightScaper #nightscape #starphotography #starscape #starrynight #awesomeearth #milkywaychasers #starrysky #astro_photography #milkyway #stars #naturescape #earthpix #nightphotography #instagram #instanight #twanight #NeverStopExploring #ourplanetdaily #shareyourweather #explorecanada #ontario #sunflowers #sunflowersofinstagram #sunflowersfield (at Lincoln, Ontario) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cji5wsZpFoC/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[cabrera71sexton-blog]

Black & White Digital Photography For Sale

In today's digital globe, the majority of people favor full color pictures while black-and-white photography is considered a distant memory. A rookie error is to fire lots and loads of images of the Bride-to-be but from just the midsection up. Just make certain you are obtaining plenty of shots of the New bride complete size also. The New bride will of spent hrs as well as hrs agonising over her wedding dress. She will likewise invest great deals as well as lots of loan on obtaining it. So make certain you do it justice by catching it in its entirety where feasible. What The National Board Of Evaluation As Well As Gotham Awards Really Mean.

When I did the test pictures for this short article, I started with my older design (2008 ), beat-to-hell Canon G10 point-and-shoot. I enjoy the Canon G collection point-and-shoots because they can go full handbook and also they fire an actually wonderful raw documents I selected this camera due to the fact that it's definitely not top of the line any longer, permitting me to show that even with small tools, excellent results are attainable. The very first coloured photographs soon adhered to. Astrophotography Tips & Techniques. The strategy was developed as early as 1860 yet was not put to use until a century later on. In the meantime, numerous memorable musicians started to demonstrate their skills for art digital photography. Road digital photography, for instance, was a crucial fad throughout the 20th century, with significant professional photographers such as Robert Doisneau, Brassi and also Henri Cartier-Bresson recording the urban landscape of the time. All three were masters of taking candid pictures. They did well in making short lived minutes last forever in monochrome photos. Occasionally amusing, in some cases charming, or even just a little peculiar, they take us back in time to days gone by. Taking a look at such rare and delicate minutes can be like undergoing old postcards from the past, as well as although we delight in considering them, they can prompt a feeling of nostalgia and also melancholy. Russian musician Veniamin Skorodumov started his photography job in 2005, throughout which he has actually accumulated a portfolio full of landscape, macro, portreit, nude, and study in still life pictures. The skills of Skorodumov caught our eye when we found his brilliant Black as well as White Geometry collection, which is spectacular in its simplicity. Mason, Jerry, ed. (1955 ). The family members of guy: the photographic event Steichen, Edward (coordinator); Sandburg, Carl (writer of foreword); Norman, Dorothy (writer of added text); Lionni, Leo (publication developer); Stoller, Ezra (professional photographer). Released for the Museum of Modern Art by Simon as well as Schuster in cooperation with the Maco Magazine Company. Then you'll be missing out on out on some terrific shots, if you're scared to get in peoples encounters with your electronic camera. At the same time you require to be self conscious and also not too interfering. Once again it's everything about the circumstance. Do not be up in the couples grill in the Event, you'll probably obtain kicked out by the Officiant. But on the dance floor or during the formals it's a lot more proper to have a bit much more swagger as well as to be a lot more obvious. Structure course in photography using white and black movie and also a wet darkroom. Fire, process, and also print private student job throughout the term. Focus on the docudrama approach and also a continual visual expedition of significance and allegory in the kind of normal projects, slide talks of vital historical as well as modern photographic job, and critiques of each other's work. No books are called for, though students will certainly need to spending plan a comparable quantity for supplies as well as tools. Instructor permission called for. After that winter came. Right here in Minnesota, among the chilliest and snowiest states in the UNITED STATE, winter can suggest temperatures well listed below zero for greater than a month out of the year, as well as snow on the ground stays FOREVER. I would certainly stop firing outside after the fall color was gone and head back inside for the holiday but truly wanted to be outdoors. I recognized that we Minnesotans are a rather hearty number, so if I can figure out exactly how to make snow benefit pictures than I was pretty certain customers would take pleasure in having pictures throughout such a stunning time of the year. Additionally, few digital photographers are outside during the coldest months which implied a brand-new company opportunity.

[xtruss]

The Ultimate Stargazing Road Trip

Home to Portugal's "Mountain of Stars" and Some of Europe's Least Light-polluted Skies, the Alentejo Region is Best Seen at Night.

— Image credit: Miguel Claro | By John Silcox | 12th April 2022

A long twisting road leads up Portugal's highest mountain, and here, unlike many other European summits, visitors can drive right to the top. The peak rises 1,993m above sea level, and although its actual name is Torre (tower), most people just call it by the same designation as the range it lofts over: Serra da Estrela or "mountain of the stars".

By day, the drive offers wonderful views across the undulant landscape of this narrow country – from the red hills of Spain in the east to the blue Atlantic Ocean in the west. However, the real spectacle comes as the sun starts to drop. Not only is this mountain a popular spot to watch golden sunsets, but for those who stay later, it offers a glimmering night-time fresco that covers the heavens, made up of millions of white pinpricks scattered in glorious imperfection.

Over the past decade, Portugal has gained recognition for being one of the top places in the world for travellers to observe the night sky, thanks to the creation of the 3,000 sq km Dark Sky Alqueva reserve, in Portugal's central Alentejo region. In 2011, the reserve was certified as the world's first Starlight Tourism Destination by the Starlight Foundation, a Unesco-supported international organisation that promotes science and tourism. This status celebrates the region's ideal viewing conditions (low levels of light pollution and an average of 286 cloudless nights per year, which result in some of Portugal's darkest skies), but also the wider tourism infrastructure it has inspired, which is set up to cater specifically to stargazers.

Dark Sky Alqueva is also the starting point for a stunning three-hour road trip that takes you through some of the least light-polluted parts of Europe, winding along the area's Dark Sky Route (a curated collection of activities and accommodations), and rising all the way to Portugal's highest peak, fittingly called the Serra da Estrela, or "mountain of stars".

My friend and I began our intergalactic journey 300km south of Serra da Estrela on a particularly dark night in the village of Cumeada, where a school has been transformed into Dark Sky Alqueva's observatory, which hosts stargazing sessions and astrophotography exhibitions. Here we met Miguel Claro, a guide and Dark Sky Alqueva's official photographer.

"Portugal is waking up to this immensely unique and valuable natural resource that has long been underappreciated," Claro said. "Dark Sky Alqueva is the astronomical equivalent of the giant wave 'discovered' by surfers in Nazaré – something that had been hiding in plain sight, waiting for people with the right sensitivity to take a closer look."

Claro is a deep-space specialist, and when he is not taking groups on night-time stargazing expeditions, he spends his time photographing far-away objects like nebulae, galaxies and star clusters. These are things that can look faint and underwhelming to the naked eye or even through an eyepiece of a telescope but explode with colour and detail when photographed.

"We have excellent weather, very little cloud cover and a lack of light pollution…, which makes it perfect to shoot the sky," said Miguel Claro (Credit: Sam Christmas)

"To get good images you need very specific conditions," he said. "Luckily here we have excellent weather, very little cloud cover and a lack of light pollution or heavy air traffic, which makes it perfect to shoot the sky. Unlike the coastal areas that have long been developed, the Portuguese backcountry remains scarcely populated and undisturbed, which makes it much easier to pick up light sources from outer space without interference."

The Cumeada Observatory is open every night from Tuesday to Saturday year-round, and travellers can come to observe the Moon, the stars and the Sun using binoculars and telescopes. Claro expertly guided us on a heavenly tour of constellations and planets, as well as the Milky Way and the Orion Nebula.

The next morning we travelled through time rather than space, arriving just before sunrise at the 7,500-year-old stone circle of Almendres Cromlech, another landmark on the Dark Sky Route, located near the Unesco World Heritage city of Évora. The biggest prehistoric monument on the Iberian Peninsula isn't gated and can be visited by day or by night – it looks especially awe-inspiring under the pale glow of the moon.

Despite predating Stonehenge by at least 1,000 years, Almendres Cromlech was only brought to the attention of the scientific community in 1964 and doesn't get anywhere near the same footfall or levels of protection. Still for Mario Carvalho, a local guide and experimental archaeologist, it could teach us more about early humans' in-depth understanding of their world, by day as well as at night.

Despite predating Stonehenge by at least 1,000 years, Almendres Cromlech was only brought to the attention of the scientific community in 1964 (Credit: Sam Christmas)

"This stone circle is organised in a very complex way," he explained, as he showed us around the site. According to Carvalho, the stones follow a much more complicated equinoctial orientation than the one Stonehenge uses, which is based on the winter solstice. To find the equinox, the builders would have spent years observing the rising and setting of the Moon and the Sun, which suggests that the population was sedentary rather than nomadic, reflecting a monumental shift in human activity at that period.

"It basically shows us the beginning of farming," said Carvalho. "And sites like this show that from the earliest times we have looked towards the sky for answers. Then during the Age of Discovery, Portuguese navigators used the stars to guide them to the New World and beyond. It's interesting that today we seem to have renewed interest in outer space with the dark sky movement."

Driving through the sleepy countryside of the Alentejo, it was surprising to see how little things have been affected by modern development. Large swaths of land are still farmed in the same way they would have been hundreds, if not thousands, of years ago, with small herds of animals grazing under the cork oaks and olive groves. The whitewashed villages also tell a story of their own: street names echo new lands across the sea, and ancient churches boast frescos of navigation and adventure.

Above it all hangs the area's star-filled canopy. It's a draw by itself, but Apolónia Rodrigues, the founder of Dark Sky Alqueva, has been working to bring more to the table in terms of tourism offerings. "The Alqueva Dark Sky Route is a network of local accommodation owners who support stargazing," she explained. "Many now stay open outside of peak season, offer late check-in times and receive guests all though the night, off the back of nocturnal excursions. They also have more flexible catering options and packed meals to take out into the field."

Dark Sky Alqueva boasts an average of 286 cloudless nights per year (Credit: Sam Christmas)

She has also worked with partners to develop memorable activities, such as moonlight wine tasting, night canoeing and weekend-long festivals called "star parties". And then there are all the other daytime experiences than can be added to the region, such as visits to historical sites and cultural centres, as well as fantastic local cuisine and wine.

Rodrigues sees stargazing as an essential part of Portugal's sustainable tourism future. Mass tourism is not the aim, but rather maintaining a healthy balance between local development and environmental preservation. She is using lessons learned at Dark Sky Alqueva to help found additional dark sky reserves further north in the country that also provide favourable star-viewing conditions.

During the final stretch of our journey, a succession of tight hairpins overlooking steep drops required us to keep our wits about us as we made our way to our last stop: the Serra da Estrela mountain range. Near the summit, we met Natalina Correia, a Portuguese national on a road trip with her boyfriend; they are visiting the mountain for the first time.

Near the summit, we met Natalina Correia, a Portuguese national on a road trip with her boyfriend; they are visiting the mountain for the first time (Credit: Sam Christmas)

"My boyfriend enjoys driving on more challenging roads, and here the main roads are absolutely fantastic," she said, gesturing at the snaking grey tarmac that cut through the bold landscape ahead. "From here you can see all the way from Spain to the sea – it's incredible. The Portuguese coast is unrivalled for sunsets as it faces due west, but up here it's even more impressive."

The pair settled on a spot near an abandoned old observatory and Portugal's highest police station. It made for a pretty picture, the geometric architecture contrasting against the natural rock formations and the pink-red sky.

The summit was indeed a glorious location to see off the end of the day and made for a good opportunity to reflect on everything we had learnt on the road. Then true to its name, the mountain of stars began to reveal its full treasures as the night set in. Thanks to our time in the observatory, we could now name some of the constellations, planets and nebulae that slowly came into view.

However, the most poignant lesson of all was perhaps about the value of properly observing our surroundings. The stars are – like many of the most beautiful things in life – slightly hidden from direct sight, but simply spellbinding once we take a proper look.

The Open Road is a celebration of the world's most remarkable highways and byways, and a reminder that some of the greatest travel adventures happen via wheels.