Warp speed Joshua Tree
May, 2016Views
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Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
Joshua Tree National Park, CATime
This was taken around 2:00 AM. A little after the Milky Way rose above the horizon.Lighting
There was a little bit of light pollution in the back of the photo due to the Coachella Valley, but I think it actually gave a nice look to the final result.Equipment
Nikon D750 | ISO4000 | 30s | f/2.8 | Manfrotto MK290XTA3-BHUS TripodInspiration
This shot was taken at Joshua Tree National Park and almost didn't happen. This was my second night and after a very crowded first night, I was trying to find somewhere that would be empty. All the "popular spots" were so packed. While driving down an empty road at sunset I saw this open forest of Joshua Trees and knew this would be the spot. The Milky Way wasn't going to rise until about 1:00 AM so I set up my camera and got some star trails in the meantime. After the Milky Way peeked up from the horizon I started shooting. With so many astrophotography photos I wanted to try something outside of my comfort zone. I originally used this technique about three years ago when I got my first DSLR. It's simply a long exposure while zooming out. I used to to it on my Christmas Tree and it always looked very cool. I've seen this done with astrophotography before so I'm not claiming to be the first to do it. Just to add a little interest I decided to do another shot with me standing there to get a nice silhouette. So basically, it's a long exposure zoom plus a single 30 second exposure. There is a lot of trial and error that goes into a shot like this while working alone since you can't tell your partner where to stand or where to aim their light. It gets frustrating, but in the end it's ALWAYS worth it.Editing
Shots like this need to be adjusted in post or you'll have the light streaks all over the place. I used this shot, plus a regular long exposure in order to blend in the foreground with a layer mask.In my camera bag
In my bag I always carry two camera bodies: Nikon D750 and Nikon D5200. That way I can double my shots and timelapses at any given spot. Of course this means double the equipment and double the weight of your bag. I also carry two Manfrotto Tripods, two intervelometers, a total 12 batteries, grip, ND filters, graduated ND filters, cleaning pens, batteries, Nitecore adjustable flashlight w/ red filter, headland w/ red filter, Nikkor 14-24mm, Rokinon 24mm, 24-120mm for day use, chargers, water, extra SD cards and bug repellent.Feedback
Be patient. It takes many trial and error experiences before you get a shot you want. If you're shooting at night definitely bring a red flashlight if you can and always be careful where you point. Too many people hike into your shot at night and either don't realize it or just don't care. Be courteous to other people who are already there.
