Sunshine Coast Workshops
Discover Borumba Dam: A Milky Way Photography Workshop
Join us for a celestial journey beneath the skies of Borumba Dam. We are thrilled to present a Night Sky Photography Workshop at this pristine location, where the Milky Way shimmers brilliantly. Suitable for both DSLR and mirrorless camera enthusiasts, this workshop welcomes photographers from beginner to intermediate levels.
The Allure of Borumba Dam
Nestled in the heart of the Mary Valley, Borumba Dam provides an idyllic setting to gaze upon the vast expanse of the night sky. Distanced from the luminous interference of urban areas, the heavens above Borumba unveil a mesmerising tapestry of stars, wandering planets, and the ever-majestic sweep of the Milky Way. The dam's reflective waters serve to amplify this cosmic splendor, making it an oasis for astrophotographers.
Of notable significance is Borumba Dam's classification as Bortle Class 2 skies, signifying some of the least light-polluted skies available. Such pristine dark skies are crucial for astrophotography as light pollution from urban centres can diminish the brilliance of the Milky Way, causing it to lose its vibrant colours and intricate details. At Borumba, photographers are not only treated to a vivid display of the Milky Way but also the rare phenomenon of airglow. This natural luminescence is caused by electrostatically energised particles in the atmosphere, producing a kaleidoscope of reds, purples, and greens that our cameras can capture. Complementing this celestial display is the picturesque backdrop of lush, forest-covered mountains, making Borumba Dam an unparalleled locale for night sky photography.
About the Workshop
16th September 2024 at 8pm to 11pm
Our 3-hour field workshop is meticulously designed to offer direct, face-to-face instruction, guiding you to hone your astrophotography techniques. The session kicks off as the remnants of twilight recede, setting the stage for a celestial spectacle of stars. We aim to assist those photographers eager to capture the night sky in unique locations and at optimal times, with hands-on guidance.
For those wishing to dive deeper into the art and further enhance their photographs, we provide an optional online component. This segment offers added instruction on post-production, where participants can learn the subtleties of editing their night sky images using Lightroom and Photoshop. Whether you're looking to solely capture the moment or refine your images to perfection, this workshop caters to your needs.
Dive deep into the realm of astrophotography, guided by our experts. The workshop covers:
ISO: Harnessing your camera's light sensitivity for clear star shots
Aperture: Ensuring maximum light intake without compromising on clarity
Shutter Speed: Capturing celestial movements, including star trails
Astro-Apps: Introduction to vital apps to predict sky events and plan shots
White Balance: Adjusting for natural night sky hues
Composition: Crafting stellar images with the Milky Way as your muse
Focus: Different methods of focusing on the stars and foreground
Terrain and Location
Expect the soft terrain of grassy knolls and the rugged outline of the dam's banks. We'll journey to select vantage points, ensuring the perfect backdrop of both land and sky.
Here's what you should bring along to maximise your workshop experience:
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
Wide-angle lens (preferably 14-24mm, 16-35mm, or equivalent with an aperture of f/1.4 - f/4)
Sturdy Tripod and Quick-release Plate
SD Card with ample storage
Spare Battery
Red/white Headlamp/Torch
Snacks and Water
Intervalometer or Shutter Release Cable (optional but beneficial)
Warm clothing layers for the cooler night temperatures
This workshop is tailored for all astrophotography enthusiasts, from novices eager to capture their first Milky Way shot to intermediates refining their skills. With a cap of 4 participants, expect a focused and intimate learning experience.
Experience the magic of the night at Borumba Dam. Elevate your skills and capture the celestial dance with renewed finesse.
Participants who attend the workshop will receive a free Lightroom & Photoshop post processing tutorial so they can bring their photos to life at their own pace in the comfort of their homes.
testimonials
“I was absolutely stoked with the workshop, was a bit unsure with the constant rain but Dylan kept me up to date every day and honestly gave me peace of mind. I’d been trying to learn on YouTube how to capture the Milky Way but honestly wasn’t having any luck until I got hands on and Dyl clarified a lot of the questions I had. Would love to do this workshop again and soon!”
“Dylan was an attentive and knowledgeable instructor who was prepared to put in extra time in order to make sure the group had an opportunity to capture the images in a night of changing cloud conditions. He made sure to check on all photographers in the group and provided tailored advice to each individual.”
“The Astro photo workshop was excellent. Dylan was very knowledgeable and professional. He went over and above to ensure we all had a great experience and followed-up with addition information to assist us further. I would highly recommend a Nikon School Workshop and Dylan Knight.”