Summer Arch Hidden in the Dunes: Capturing the Milky Way with an Astro-Modified Camera
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to capture my first Milky Way shot of the season, and it was made even more special by using my newly astro-modified camera body! The chosen location for this celestial endeavor was the magnificent Great Sand Dunes National Park, known for its Bortle 2 dark skies – a true paradise for stargazers.
The journey to this spot was no small feat. The hike itself was arduous, carrying heavy camera gear through soft, deep sand. Coupled with strong, gusty winds, it made every step a challenge. To add to the drama, the clouds were rather menacing upon my arrival, threatening to obscure the night sky. However, I persevered, and my patience was rewarded in the most spectacular way.
When I woke up at 1:00 AM and peeked out of my tent, all the clouds had miraculously vanished. They had left behind a pristine, dark sky, revealing the gorgeous celestial views that we all know and love. It was a truly magical moment.
The Gear and Settings
Here's a look at the technical details that brought this stunning image to life:
- Camera: Sony a7iv (h-alpha mod)
- Lens: Viltrox 16mm f/1.8
Sky Shot Settings:
- Aperture: f/2.8
- ISO: 800
- Panorama: 9 panels
- Exposure: 2 minutes 30 seconds per panel
Foreground Shot Settings:
- Aperture: f/5.6
- ISO: 800
- Panorama: 3 panels
- Exposure: 1 second per panel
The Experience
The result is an awe-inspiring panorama that truly captures the grandeur of the Milky Way arching over the iconic dunes. It's a testament to sticking it out through challenging conditions and the incredible capabilities of modern astrophotography equipment.
This image is a reminder of the vastness and beauty of our universe, and how accessible it can be with a bit of dedication and the right tools. The sheer scale of the sky against the tiny tent in the foreground emphasizes the incredible experience of being immersed in nature's grandeur.
