Island Beach State Park Astrophotography Workshop

Join Sigma Ambassador Jack Fusco, Sigma, and Unique Photo’s Bobby Stormer for an 3-part astrophotography workshop! The goal is for you to leave with the knowledge and ability to shoot the stars on your own.

Seminar at Unique Photo Fairfield

Thursday, June 18 | 6:00PM ET

Jack will guide you through the basics (as well as some advanced techniques!) of astrophotography and some astronomy info that will help you plan your next outing to capture the stars. Topics include gear, planning and scouting, camera settings and techniques, composition tips for great astro photos, and shooting styles from single exposures to image stacking.

Excursion at Island Beach State Park

Friday, June 19 OR Saturday, June 20 | 4:00PM – 12:00AM ET

Take these lessons and techniques on the road! Meet with Jack, Sigma, and Unique Photo at Island Beach State Park for a night of hands-on astrophotography in the field. Start with an evening photowalk with Bobby (4:00 – 6:00PM), take a break (6:00 – 7:00PM), and then capture the stars with Jack (7:00PM – 12:00AM)! Please feel free to bring your own camping chairs and light food (e.g. sandwiches, water, snacks) for the break.

See how Jack plans an entire night to maximize his time shooting and ensure that he leaves with images he’s excited about. We’ll shoot as many Milky Way compositions and utilize as many shooting techniques as possible. We’ll also have access to shoot the Judge’s Shack! Continuously threatened by hurricanes and other coastal conditions, it is a New Jersey state icon, a landmark for fishermen and women, and a historic symbol of a bygone era. Sigma loaner lenses will also be available the entire night!

What To Bring:

• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera with manual settings
• Fast aperture lens
• Extra batteries (2 or more) and memory cards (64gb+)
• Sturdy tripod
• Shutter Release / Intervalometer
• Red light equipped headlamp, the red light will be less harsh on our eyes and help keep night vision intact!
• Warm clothing – Dress in layers to help stay warm
• Decent hiking shoes/boots to manage the terrain
• Bug spray