Tonight we’re heading down to Flamingo in the Everglades National Park to photograph the milky way. We will meet at 7:30pm at the parking lot in front of the Guy Bradley Visitor’s Center in Flamingo (see map link to the left or scroll to the bottom. NOTE: WE’RE NOT MEETING AT ERNEST COE!!
From here we’ll answer any last minute questions and I’ll let you all pick a place to photograph. There’s some nice spots near the visitor’s center, or you can venture over to the campground and photograph from the Eco-Tents, from the Amphitheater, or just from the parking lot. Wherever you like.
We’ll arrive at our location with plenty of time to scout a location or photograph a sunset (sun sets at 8:12pm). We should be able to shoot the milky way by around 9pm.
WHAT TO BRING!
I always bring everything because it’s already in my bag. But we’ll be shooting near our vehicles so there shouldn’t be any long hikes with heavy packs on this trip. Unless of course you opt to head down one of the trails. But it’s not necessary.
Camera
Fast wide-angle lens (widest focal length with widest aperture (lowest F-stop)
Sturdy tripod
Shutter release
Lawn Chair or stool to sit on
Drinks and/or snacks if necessary (stay hydrated!)
Lens warmer if you have one (in case of condensation)
Fully charged smart phone with pre-loaded (and studied) starry sky app (Photopills or Stellarium are good ones, but any apps that show the milky way will do)
Flashlights or headlamps to see AFTER shooting. (Remember, night photography in a group etiquette! Lights are night sky killers!) A flashlight with very low lumen values are nice for seeing what you need to see without bothering your fellow photographers.
Mosquito Repellent (see below)
An open mind and positive attitude!
Special Mention - Be sure you have plenty of gas in your car. It’s 38 miles from the entrance to Everglades National Park down to Flamingo. Last stop for gas will be Florida City.
MOSQUITOES!
Yes, there will be mosquitoes. Plan for it, prepare for it, bring your entire arsenal of mosquito repellents. Deet Spray, Bug Jackets, ThermaCells, magic crystals, and even your Avon Skin So Soft! Tis the season as they say and I’d rather you have everything necessary to not get eaten alive. If you find they aren’t bad, then you can leave stuff in your car. But always be prepared, especially in the summer.
BATHROOMS
As far as I’m aware, the only bathroom facilities are in the campground area. If I hear of any updated info on new facilities, I’ll list it here.
WEATHER
As always, things can change due to weather, but the weather can change on a dime. Just because it’s raining in Miami, doesn’t mean it’ll be raining or even cloudy in Flamingo (and vice versa). But be sure to RSVP in case there is some weather issue that I need to contact you about.
Generally, the only reason we’ll cancel is lack of participation or a tropical storm. As always, be sure to RSVP by clicking the button above.
Hope to see you all there! Any questions, please email me at info@sfnpcc.org.
Milky Way from the Flamingo Campground area, Everglades National Park.