AstroPhotography –
I’ve been exploring opportunities presented by the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse of April 8, 2024. It’s going to be a spectacular event to be remembered for a lifetime. Huge crowds of people from around the globe are expected to flood into the Path of Totality. Alton, and all of Oregon county, are in the Path. For almost 4 minutes, we will be in the shadow of the moon.
How many people will come to Alton to view the eclipse? There’s really no way of knowing. The flood of eclipse chasers will present economic opportunities for those who prepare for it. But, the eclipse itself will provide great inspiration and, many other educational opportunities to the community.
Astrophotography is one of the reasons people travel into the Path of Totality. Photographing the skies can be complicated and a bit intimidating for beginners.
Links to get you started
Adobe Photoshop Astrophotography starter
Astropix Beginner Equipment guide
Popular Mechanics Beginner’s Guide to Astrophotography
Contests and Clubs
11 Point Productions will be helping to facilitate Arts, Music and Cultural events related to the eclipse. If you are interested in forming a photography club, let us know. The University Extension office is interested in helping with that.
We’re also looking at holding Astrophotography contests over the next couple of years to encourage local photographers to shoot pictures of the heavens. There will be a partial solar eclipse in October of 2023, to let you practice photographing the sun. The Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024, will be the most awesome opportunity for those who have practiced Astrophotography.
Start learning and gathering the right equipment now. Being in the shadow of the moon is going to be incredible. We hope you’re here for it!