Milky Way Moonset Magic
When my friend, Amy, shared information regarding an upcoming workshop in the Mount Rainier National Park, my interest was piqued. The workshop would include shooting the night sky as well as different locations around the park. I had been to the park once before on a solo trip, but I wasn't really satisfied with the images I had taken at that time. Participation in a workshop puts me in more remote locations that I would not otherwise go to on my own. Safety first! So, I contemplated the idea of going for about a month. After being assured by Nate Luebbe and Autumn Schrock that all precautions would be taken regarding COVID-19, I decided to attend. I was on my way to photograph the gorgeous national park and the Milky Way moonset.(Watch for upcoming posts of my trip to Mount Rainier and the Northern Cascades national parks.)
The Hike There
We set out on the trail to the Fremont Fire Lookout from the Sunrise Visitors Center about mid afternoon so we'd have plenty of time to set up, eat, and take a break before serious shooting would begin. The trail offered amazing views along the way. According to Google Maps it was about three miles to reach our destination (I'm sure it was at least twice that!) and the elevation increased about 900 feet. Not too bad, except I live in the flatlands, in the valley at about 50 feet. So, it was quite a climb for me to the 7,181 foot summit carrying my camera bag full of gear and warm clothes while wearing a mask. Yes, I had to stop to catch my breath from time to time. Gratefully, my fellow workshop attendees, many of whom hike in the mountains routinely, were understanding of my need to catch my breath.The moment we reached the top felt like quite an accomplishment in itself. I will always appreciate the effort it took to get to our location for the most amazing 360° view. Although the goal was to catch the Milky Way right over the mountain after the moon was fully out of view, it was tempting to take a few other images leading up to that moment.
Milky Way Moonset Magic
That is Jupiter on the left of the Milky Way and the setting moon on the right. About 30 minutes later, the moon had set and the sky blackened. In the below vertical image you can see Saturn to the left of Jupiter.
After a most rewarding photography night, it was time to pack up our gear, put on our headlamps, and trek back down to the parking lot.I really love going on photography workshops, venturing to locations where I wouldn't go by myself. Interacting with people who have a strong common interest develops strong friendships with people from all over. It's fun to geek out on all things photography. Each time I attend a workshop, I learn something new and realize just how much more I have to learn.
Cloud Movement Time Lapse
While waiting for darkness, I recorded a very short time lapse of the cloud movement just beyond the ridge. The password is Cloud Movement.[embed]https://vimeo.com/454845350[/embed]
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All landscape, fine art, and still life images are available for purchase.
Please CONTACT ME at nadeen@nadeenflynn.com with any questions or to schedule your learning session.
As a published, featured northern California fine art photographer living in the greater Sacramento area, I specialize in fine art landscape and still life photography. My style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. I offer in-person workshops, hourly lessons, and mentoring. While currently living in rural northern California with my husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, I post regularly to Instagram.
Serving Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, and the greater Sacramento area.
(530) 633-7575
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