Tonight we’ll travel into the Big Cypress at a new spot (for the club) to photograph the milky way. We will meet at 8pm at the Miccosukee Indian Village parking lot (in front of the wrestling alligator)
where we’ll caravan to the spot after everyone arrives. So please, everyone, be sure to RSVP and be there on time. The caravan will leave the parking lot at 8:15pm sharp!
We’ll arrive at our location with plenty of time to spare and with a bit of light left to see what’s around us to set up a composition. Astronomical twilight ends at 9:44pm, but we should be able to shoot the milky way by the end of Nautical twilight at 9:11pm.
WHAT TO BRING!
I always bring everything because it’s already in my bag. But we’ll be shooting right next to our vehicles so there no hiking with heavy packs on this trip.
Camera
Fast wide-angle lens (widest focal length with widest aperture (lowest F-stop)
Sturdy tripod
Shutter release
Lawn Chair or place to sit
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!)
Mosquito Repellent (see below)
An open mind and positive attitude!
Special Mention - Be sure you have plenty of gas in your car. I made the mistake of going out to the Big Cypress with enough, but it was a pretty close call. Make sure you have a full tank because gas stations are not on every street corner out there, and we can run around all night if necessary.
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
Unfortunately, the nearest bathroom is at the Gator Hook trailhead. However, I will be bringing my portable toilet for any emergencies that may arise throughout the evening.
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 the Big Cypress (and vice versa). Another reason I don’t give out locations is we may have to choose another spot on the fly where it’s clear. I have many plan B’s, C’s, and even D’s!
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.