Milky Way

I get asked a lot about Astrophotography lately from my followers on Instagram, especially on capturing and editing the Milky Way. It's kind of difficult to explain through direct messaging and honestly I would prefer to invite them going for an 'Instagram Mission' at night. It's easier to explain and guide them in real life situation. However, that's not really possible because we all live at different places. Besides, I can't fix an exact date to meet as it depends on the weather, sky and location to tell when it's possible to shoot the Milky Way. I personally feel glad that people on my Instagram are showing interest in Astrophotography. I'm always willing to share my experience and knowledge with them. At times I just wish we have our own local Astrophotography community like the one in Sabah, I bet it will be more exciting to venture into the night. So, for those who are curious about how to shoot night photography, you might want to check out this YouTube video for more tips https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ODTuekcrtlQ 

2017 First Milky Way Photo

It took me half a year to wait for my favourite season to arrive. No, it's not summer but Milky Way season. How do I know when is the time? Well, I learned best through experience, observation and reading. When I first took on Astrophotography, I asked the experts on Instagram for guidance. You can see the Milky Way during the second half of the year. I'm not sure about other regions, but for us in Sri Aman it is usually visible from May till November. Another indication is when you begin to see lots of Instagram posts on Milky Way. 

Can't believe that the first shot for 2017 is already mesmerising. For almost three years, I think this time is the easiest to observe it. It didn't take me too long to spot the Milky Way right away last night. Normally I have to stand in complete darkness for a few minutes before I can see it as our eyes need to get adjusted to the surrounding, much like how a camera works. Similar to capturing a long exposure shot in the dark. 

Since my mother is on Facebook, of course she would know what I'm passionate about. One night she recommended to shoot from the backyard of my parents' home as there was almost no pollution coming from the street light. I took her advice and it worked to get a better photo. At 1 a.m. on the 20th of May, I went stargazing on a quiet night and managed to take a few good shots. The result was the photo above. I decided not to stay outside for too long as there were many mosquitoes and I needed to edit the photo. 

I pray that this year I'll be given more opportunities and going somewhere else to capture the Milky Way. I just need to be patient to see something spectacular. I guess that somehow teaches me one thing, good things happen to those who wait. Nevertheless I also believe in good things come to those who hustle and never give up. Only a third of the world population have the privilege of seeing the starry night sky. So, go Milky Way chasing while we are still able. It helps to calm and heal your soul. It's even more meaningful if you can go stargazing with someone. 

Venus

This photo was shot during power outage at Southern zone of Sarawak. Venus was most visible that night. It looked as if it was the brightest star in the sky. Most people on earth are unable to gaze at a starry night sky due to light pollution. I was in Kuching when the city blacked out. I guess it was a privilege at the time for us to see countless stars up above the sky so high, but Milky Way was nowhere to be seen. It was not the season. 

Shot on 26 November 2016