Milky Way Core Above a Small Lake in Tahoe National Forest
This stunning photograph captures the awe-inspiring beauty of the Milky Way's core, dramatically positioned above a tranquil lake nestled within the vast expanse of the Tahoe National Forest.
This shot was a highlight of a recent camping trip, offering a spectacular view of our galaxy's luminous center against the backdrop of a pristine natural setting. The reflections in the water add a magical dimension to the scene, creating a mesmerizing visual dialogue between the celestial and the terrestrial.
Behind the Shot:
The creation of this image involved careful planning and execution:
- Camera: Nikon Z6II
- Lens: Nikorr Z 20mm
- Tracker: iOptron Skyguider Pro
Settings:
- Sky: 240 seconds exposure, f/2 aperture, ISO 400
- Foreground: 30 seconds exposure, f/1.8 aperture, ISO 3200
The juxtaposition of the sharp, detailed Milky Way and the softly illuminated foreground, with its subtle water reflections, showcases the power of modern astrophotography. The elongated shape of the stars in the reflection is a fascinating effect, often caused by the subtle movements of the water surface as it refracts the light from the distant stars.
For those interested in the full experience, a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of this shot, along with a complete vlog featuring more images from the trip, is available on YouTube.
