A Lonely Tree Under the Stars: Astrophotography in an Abandoned Quarry
Stepping into the quiet darkness of an abandoned quarry can be an otherworldly experience. When that darkness is punctuated by the breathtaking beauty of the night sky, the result can be truly magical. Such was the case for a recent astrophotography expedition that yielded this stunning image.
A Photographer's Dream Location
The photographer gained access to two abandoned lime quarries located just before the small village of Limehills in Southland, New Zealand. This location, aptly named given its history as a lime quarry, provided the perfect canvas for a night of celestial exploration.
The Magic of a New Camera
This particular shoot was made even more special by the recent acquisition of the photographer's first ever astro-modified camera. This was only the second time using the new equipment, a Sony a6300 with an H-alpha modification, paired with a Viltrox 16mm lens. The results speak for themselves, showcasing the incredible capabilities of the new setup.
Technical Details Behind the Shot
The final image is a testament to meticulous planning and execution. It's a panorama comprised of eight 20-second exposures. Each shot was captured at an aperture of f/1.8 and an ISO of 2000, settings that allow for capturing faint details in the night sky while keeping noise to a minimum. The post-processing was handled with care in Lightroom Classic and Photoshop, bringing out the full splendor of the scene.
Community Appreciation
The response to this photograph has been overwhelmingly positive, with comments highlighting its "stunning" and "masterpiece" qualities. The scene even evoked comparisons to Yggdrasil from Norse mythology, a testament to its evocative power. It's a perfect example of how a blend of stunning locations, new technology, and passionate photography can create truly unforgettable art.
