Have you ever seen the Milky Way rise over Fort McKavett? Have you ever wanted to capture the celestial beauty of our galaxy, but not felt confident behind the lens? Would you like to learn more about nighttime photography and get some beautiful images of the Stars over Texas? Then join us for our Milky Way Photography Class on April 26, 2025! The class portion of this program begins at 10 pm in the historic Fort McKavett Schoolhouse. Beginning at 12:00, participants will move outside to their photography area and begin taking photos. The Milky Way will be visible from 12:30 am until 5:30 am. Participants are invited to remain onsite through the entire span of visibility!

 

Nighttime photographer and Milky Way enthusiast Kirk Brandau will lead participants in learning the basics of camera-use in nighttime photography. This class will cover the essential techniques and knowledge needed to capture stunning images of our galaxy. This 2-hour class includes the following topics: (2-5 hours of Milky Way photography will begin after the class).

 

  1. Introduction to Milky Way Photography: Understanding the Milky Way, the best times and locations for photographing it, and the necessary equipment.
  2. Camera Settings: Learning about the optimal camera settings for Milky Way photography, including ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and focus.
  3. Planning and Preparation: How to plan your shoot, including using apps and tools to determine the best times and locations, checking weather conditions, and scouting locations.
  4. Composition and Framing: Tips on how to compose your shots to include interesting foreground elements and create visually appealing images.
  5. Troubleshooting: Common issues faced during Milky Way photography and how to overcome them, such as dealing with light pollution, focusing in the dark, and reducing noise in your images.
  6. By the end of the class, participants should have a good understanding of how to capture beautiful Milky Way photos and the confidence to experiment and improve their skills further. Participants will be given plenty of time to put their training to use with the opportunity to set up and photograph the milky way on the historic grounds, with coaching available from more experienced photographers.

Participants will need to bring the following:

  1. Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential to keep your camera steady during long exposures.
  2. Full-Frame Camera: A camera with good high ISO (Up to ISO 6400) performance is ideal. Full-frame sensor cameras are preferred, but good results can be achieved with M4/3, or even APS-C sensors. This class does not cover the use of cell phones.
  3. Wide-Angle Lens: A lens (from 14mm to 35mm recommended) with a wide aperture (f/2.8, f/2.0, f/1.8 or greater) will help capture more light. Results can be achieved with apertures of f/4.0 but not recommended.
  4. Headlamp / Flashlight with Red Light Mode: This helps you see in the dark without affecting your night vision. Light discipline will be required when shooting as a group.
  5. Bright Flashlight: Useful for light painting and navigating in the dark. Light discipline will be required when shooting as a group.
  6. Remote Shutter Release (cabled or wireless): To avoid camera shake when taking long exposures. You can also use the camera’s self-timer or intervalometer.
  7. Warm/Cool Clothing: Nights can get cold/remain warm, so dress accordingly. Check the weather forecast for the area you will be shooting.
  8. Extra Batteries: Long exposure photography can drain batteries quickly, so bring extras.
  9. Portable seating
  10. Close-toed shoes

 

Please note that this class WILL NOT cover information regarding after-capture photo editing or computer enhancement of captured images.

 

The class is limited to 15 participants ONLY. 

 

There is a $15 fee for this class payable to the Friends of Fort McKavett. Payment MUST be made IN ADVANCE to secure your slot in the class. There are NO REFUNDS except in the event of inclement weather.

 

For more information and to register, please email Kevin.Malcolm@thc.texas.gov.