Witnessing the Cosmos: Porer Lighthouse Meets the Stars
This summer, I found myself on the breathtaking Croatian coast, a place where history whispers from ancient stones and the night sky promises an unparalleled spectacle. Determined to capture its celestial beauty, I dedicated one particular night to astrophotography. The result? An image that blends the stoic presence of a historic lighthouse with the mesmerizing dance of the stars.
The Iconic Porer Lighthouse
Standing sentinel on a tiny islet just off Cape Kamenjak, the Porer Lighthouse is more than just a navigational aid; it's a symbol of resilience and enduring charm. Built in 1833, this 35-meter-tall beacon has guided countless sailors along the Adriatic for nearly two centuries. Its enduring presence makes it a perfect subject for capturing the vastness of the night sky.
Crafting the Celestial Canvas
To create this image, I employed a Nikon Z6 with a Tamron 70-200mm F2.8 G2 lens. The process involved careful planning and execution to capture both the terrestrial landscape and the movement of the stars.
For the Sky:
- ISO: 800
- Focal Length: 200mm
- Aperture: F2.8
- Shutter Speed: 60 seconds
- Number of Images Stacked: 49
This meticulous stacking of images allowed the stars to trace their arcs across the night sky, creating the signature star trail effect.
For the Landscape:
- ISO: 800
- Focal Length: 200mm
- Aperture: F2.8
- Shutter Speed: 60 seconds
- Number of Images Stacked: 5
A separate set of exposures captured the detailed landscape, ensuring the lighthouse and its surroundings were well-lit and rendered with clarity.
A Summer of Discovery
This image represents just one piece of my astrophotography journey on the Croatian coast this summer. The experience was deeply rewarding, offering a unique perspective on the interplay between human history and the enduring power of the cosmos.
If you're curious to see more of this adventure, you can check out my vlog where I share the entire experience:
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