How to Photograph the Milky Way – Astrophotography Tutorials, Tools, Gear + Inspiration
We’re happy to announce that, as of today, the SharpStar2 150mm is now available for pre-order, scheduled to ship in March.
This new 150mm SharpStar2 size is perfect for ultra-wide-angle lenses like the Samyang/Rokinon 14mm/2.8 and Nikon 14-24mm/2.8 that need a special 150mm filter system to fit on their fixed-lens hoods.
Our premium filter case is also now available in a 150mm size and can be ordered at the same time as your SharpStar2.
Alas, a partial fix to the dreaded “star eater” issue has been found for the a7SII and a7RII! The quick version: enable continuous shutter drive mode. Read more to learn about the “star eater” issue and the limitations of this partial fix.
This video tutorial combines two of my favorite techniques for maximizing image quality of astrophotos: stacking and stitching.
Continue reading “Tutorial: Stacked Astrophotography Panoramas”
As the end of the year approaches, we’ve been doing some reflecting on the photography projects we’ve completed in the last twelve months. We’ve experimented with lots of new gear, had fun trying new and improved photography apps, launched our second astrophotography filter, and set out on several photo excursions with the lot.
Considering all the tools and technology we’ve used for astrophotography this year, there’s a lot to love, so we’ve compiled all of our favorites this year into our 2017 gift guide.
Read on for our favorite project memories and the top gear we tested in 2017 — and get some ideas for your holiday gift list this year.
Continue reading “Gear of the Year: Lonely Speck Gift Guide 2017”
Join a team of many amazing photographers including Ian Norman and Diana Southern, creators of Lonely Speck, for 7 days from May 13 to May 20 at the PhotoPills Camp 2018 in Menorca, Spain!
We were a few of the many millions of people that traveled into the path of totality to witness the 2017 total solar eclipse. Check out what it was like to experience the eclipse from Mackay, Idaho.
Continue reading “Astrophotography On Location: 2017 Total Solar Eclipse – Mackay Idaho”
This calculator goes beyond the basic “500 Rule” to determine the best shutter time for non-tracked astrophotography on a fixed tripod. Rather than just focal length, this calculator also factors in the effects of sensor pixel density, declination and allows for an adjustable tolerance for star trailing. Input your camera parameters and the calculator will output a recommended shutter time that minimizes star trailing depending on where you’re pointing your camera in the sky.
Continue reading “Advanced Astrophotography Shutter Time Calculator”