Does My Delicate Arch Astrophoto Measure Up? Seeking Feedback!
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Does My Delicate Arch Astrophoto Measure Up? Seeking Feedback!

Astrophotography
August 25, 20253 min read
Cosmic Chronicles

Cosmic Chronicles

Space Science Writer

Does My Delicate Arch Astrophoto Measure Up? Seeking Feedback!

Hey fellow space enthusiasts and photographers! I recently captured this shot of Delicate Arch and, after browsing through some of the most popular images on the sub, I'm feeling a bit discouraged. Mine seems to pale in comparison.

Delicate Arch Astrophoto

I'm using a Nikon D780 with a 14mm Sigma Art lens. For the shot, my settings were:

  • Foreground (FG): 10 seconds, f/1.8, ISO 3200
  • Sky: 120 seconds x 16 exposures, f/1.8, ISO 200

I'm wondering if I need to upgrade my gear (more subs, higher resolution camera, an H-alpha mod?), or if it's more about composition and processing. I'd love to hear your thoughts, constructive criticism, and any advice you might have to elevate my astrophotography game.

Some of you have mentioned that comparing your work to others is a great learning process, and I definitely agree. It's inspiring to see what's possible!

I've received some great initial feedback, like:

  • "Nice image! Use other images to inspire or learn from, but just because others get more Internet points, that doesn't mean yours isn't amazing or not as good. I love that yours isn't 'overcooked,' it's a great composition, and I like the dark silhouette of the arch with some hint of color in your foreground. It's your vision, and that's special."
  • "I really like it and would be happy to have it in my portfolio. Detail looks good on the milky way. I think a slightly different composition would increase the impact. I think if you had the MW start in the upper left (so shifting more right) and especially if you could get closer and a little lower (if possible) so that the arch was more prominent that would help make the frame stand out. It's very nice, just a few thoughts."
  • "As others have stated there’s nothing wrong with your image at all, it’s a great shot and has been executed really well, the only thing I would change (if it’s possible as I’m not sure what the footing was like to your right) I would shift the composition to the right as there is a lot of negative space to the left which makes your eyes focus unnaturally on the right. It's a very clean FG, and a really clean looking Milky Way. Another thing that may play into not getting many upvotes is the time and day you post as this can really affect its reach."

It's been suggested that moving the composition slightly to the right could help balance the negative space on the left, and perhaps getting closer and lower to make the arch more prominent could increase its impact. The foreground is a late blue hour blend.

I'm also hearing that timing of the post can affect reach, which is something to consider.

What do you think? Any other tips or suggestions for capturing stunning astrophotography of iconic landmarks like Delicate Arch?

Tags:

Astrophotography
Milky Way
Nikon D780
Delicate Arch
composition
Critique

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