Milky Way Over Sprague Lake: A Journey into Astrophotography

This image, captured at the stunning Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, holds a special place in my heart. It represents one of my very first attempts at photographing the Milky Way, a journey that began with just a camera, a tripod, and a whole lot of learning through trial and error.

The scene itself is a powerful reminder of why I fell in love with astrophotography. The serene reflections in the lake, the majestic silhouette of the mountains in the distance, and that vast, star-studded sky stretching overhead – it's a combination that truly humbles and inspires.

For those curious about the technical side of this shot, here’s a breakdown of the gear and settings used:

Gear

• Camera: Canon T7i (Astro modified)
• Lens: Rokinon 14mm f/2.8

Acquisition Details

• Sky: 4 x 30 second exposures at f/2.8 and ISO 1600
• Foreground: 1 x 30 second exposure at f/2.8 and ISO 1600

What does 'Astro Modified' Mean?

A common question I get is about the "astro modified" camera. Essentially, all camera sensors have a filter that balances color, but this filter can also block certain wavelengths of light, particularly red and near-infrared light emitted by nebulae. By modifying the camera – in this case, removing that specific filter – the sensor becomes much more sensitive to these faint signals, allowing for clearer and more detailed shots of deep-sky objects.

This particular shot was taken with the proximity to Denver in mind, and it's a testament to how even with some light pollution, you can still achieve incredible results, especially when utilizing techniques like astro modification and finding good vantage points where natural features can help block ambient light.

It’s incredibly rewarding to know that achieving images like this is possible, even with accessible gear. All you really need is a stable tripod and a willingness to experiment. If this inspires you to try your own astrophotography, I encourage you to grab your gear and head out on a clear night!

For more of my astrophotography adventures, be sure to check out my Instagram .