Capturing the Milky Way Through Spiti Valley's Clouds
On a recent adventure in the serene Spiti Valley, India, I was fortunate enough to witness and capture the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Milky Way, even on what could have been a challenging cloudy night.
This photograph was taken at an impressive altitude of 3650 meters (approximately 11,975 feet) above sea level. The clarity and brilliance of the galactic core, even with the presence of some atmospheric conditions, is a testament to the pristine skies of Spiti Valley.
The Gear and Settings
Achieving such a shot requires a combination of excellent equipment and precise settings. Here's what went into capturing this moment:
- Camera: Sony A7R5
- Lens: 20mm f/1.8 G
- Exposure: 30 seconds
- ISO: 5000
- Aperture: f/1.8
These settings allowed for ample light gathering to capture the faint details of the Milky Way, while the wide aperture of the 20mm lens provided a broad view of the celestial panorama and allowed for a relatively low ISO despite the long exposure.
Post-Processing
The magic didn't stop in the field. The raw image was meticulously processed in Lightroom Classic, bringing out the vibrant colors and intricate details of our galaxy. The goal was to enhance the natural beauty of the scene without overdoing it, preserving the authentic feel of the Spiti Valley night sky.
This shot has resonated with many, and it's always rewarding to know that such celestial displays can inspire others, perhaps even to recreate them through different artistic mediums. I'm truly humbled by the positive reception!
