We’d like to acknowledge Wolf Dieter Magerl. During the month of March, he has shared 33 stunning panoramas that showcase the beauty of Austria. From the Water lily pond in the flower gardens of Vienna to the Waterfront Copa Beach, each panorama transports viewers to a unique location.
One of the standout images is the aerial view from the cockpit of a Cessna 172, which gives viewers a bird’s eye view of the Weinviertel in Lower Austria. It’s a mesmerizing experience to see the landscape from above, especially with no pilot and crew on board!
Wolf’s panoramas also capture the essence of Vienna, with panoramic views of Stephansplatz and the iconic Riesenradplatz in Prater. But it’s not just the famous landmarks that make Wolf’s work so captivating; he also captures the beauty of lesser-known locations, such as the Aviation Museum Hangar Airfield Vöslau LOAV and the large Palm House in the Schönbrunn Palace Park.
We are excited to see what else Wolf has in store for the 360º community, and we encourage you to check out his profile page to experience his panoramas for yourself.
Why it’s helpful: Whether it’s the sounds of ocean waves crashing, a lake gently lapping on the shore, or a trickling mountain stream, water can provide comfort to us, says Lomas. “The importance of water sounds may relate to the critical role of water for survival, as well as the capacity of continuous water sounds to mask noise,” scientists wrote in the aforementioned Proceedings of the National Academy of Science meta-analysis. Plus, by having a water feature you can see as well as hear, you may be able to tap into additional calming benefits, since research suggests that the simple act of looking at water can decrease blood pressure and heart rate while promoting relaxation.
6. Collect a basket of nature items.
Designate a basket or container to hold any nature items you find when you are able to go outside—and challenge yourself to be on the lookout for things that speak to you. These can be shells, pinecones, rocks, dried flowers, a cool piece of bark—anything, really. When you’re feeling stressed, visit this “treasure chest” of nature items and spend a few minutes exploring the objects with your various senses, noting how they smell, feel, look, and sound, says Kuang.
Rocks in particular can be super grounding, says Siegfried. That’s why she recommends mindful interaction with them, similar to with the houseplants above. Close your eyes and use your hands to explore the different textures and temperatures of the rock, says Siegfried. Place the rock against your heart or rib cage and note what it feels like to breathe alongside the rock. This exercise may sound hokey, but “people just have the most amazing experiences,” says Siegfried. After you’ve connected with the rock for several days, consider returning it to where you found it or to a new place as a practice in reciprocity, says Siegfried.
Why it’s helpful: Spending a few minutes mindfully exploring various natural objects can help lower stress levels and provide a sense of comfort, says Kuang. This activity can also remind you of positive memories of when you were outside in nature, which can be soothing when you’re cooped up indoors. Plus, taking the time to intentionally interact with natural objects can bring you into the present moment and usher in a sense of relaxation.
7. Light candles or use an essential oil diffuser.
We often experience nature visually, but tapping into the olfactory aspect can be yet another way to connect to the natural world. Consider lighting a nature-scented candle or using an essential oil diffuser to infuse your home with the smells of the outdoors, whether that be the fragrance of a rose, lavender, or pinewood forest.
Why it’s helpful: Smells associated with nature can boost well-being (including measures of enjoyment and happiness), according to a compilation of research cited in a 2022 study published in the journal Ambio.
8. Get intentional about texture.
The next time you shop for a new couch pillow or throw, opt for a natural fabric—think: wool, sheepskin, velvet, cotton, or linen, says Lomas. All of these materials have different textures that can provide a unique experience to explore nature via touch. This can look like:
Underwater enthusiast Bartolomeo Bove captures stunning closest moments with apex predators. Bartolomeo is a professional shark diver, divemaster and underwater videographer. He makes underwater videos with aquatic animals, especially apex predators such as sharks, alligators, crocodiles and anacondas.
“During every dive, I feel the same astonishment and emotion as the clients, who perhaps see a shark up close for the first time, especially when we encounter an unexpected species, because every dive is different from the others. Personally, finding myself swimming with the sharks in the same environment gives me a feeling both of peace and excitement, and it gives me great satisfaction when I succeed in capturing with my camera a particular shot that I had in mind.”
You can find Bartolomeo Bove on the web:
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In addition to the dives with the sharks, I broadened in the last years my range of interest toward the wildlife species to film by traveling to different parts of the world where I had the opportunity to be face to-face with extremely fascinating aquatic creatures. I have traveled to the Galapagos Islands, a real paradise for nature and dive lovers, with the main purpose to film the marine iguanas feeding underwater and the playful sea lions.
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As a marine life enthusiast and underwater videographer Galapagos is one of those places I could not have missed. Before going there, I was told many times by fellow divers that after the experience of diving there, diving somewhere else would not have been the same. And they were right.
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I traveled to Brazil, and I filmed in a river a giant anaconda 23 foot in length and with an approximate weight between 200 and 250 lbs. A female green anaconda, the biggest of the 4 species of anacondas. Only female anacondas are so huge in size; the male individuals reach the length of about 3 or 4 meters and are way less heavy.
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I traveled to Brazil, and I filmed in a river a giant anaconda 23 foot in length and with an approximate weight between 200 and 250 lbs. A female green anaconda, the biggest of the 4 species of anacondas. Only female anacondas are so huge in size; the male individuals reach the length of about 3 or 4 meters and are way less heavy.
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As a wildlife enthusiast, Florida is the place to be, not only for the ocean. The numerous rivers, streams, and bodies of water offer incredible opportunities for someone like myself who enjoys exploring and filming the underwater world, from colorful fish to manatees.
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And then there is the swamp, a somewhat eerie and wild environment where diving in it means submerging yourself in a primitive world. I have to admit that free diving in the Florida swamp is one of my favorite activities. So sometimes I like to dive into the underwater jungle to film the alligators, really fascinating creatures, equipped only with mask, fins, and snorkel, and of course with my camera.
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Winter is the ideal time to do such activity because cold weather makes them calmer and slow down. To film underwater in the swamp, where the visibility is not ideal, as I got to dive with caution, approaching very slowly once spotted the alligator, paying attention not to scare it running the risk of making it run away. When you are in the alligator underwater kingdom it is very important to swim unnoticed as much as you can, avoiding sudden movements in the water, respecting the animal, and not annoying it. It is important to mention that although alligators are apex predators and highly unpredictable, the size of their natural prey is usually smaller than the size of a human being.
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Even if I know that in the South Florida swamp, there are also crocodiles, I have never encountered one. So I have planned a trip to Banco Chinchorro in Mexico to dive with the American crocodiles.
Banco Chinchorro, located 22 miles (35 kilometers) off the south-eastern coast of the State of Quintana Roo in Mexico, is the largest atoll reef of the northern hemisphere, Biosphere Reserve and temporary residence of a small group of fishermen during lobster season.
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Banco Chinchorro is also home to an estimated population of about 500 American Crocodiles (Crocodylus Acutus), the densest congregation of American crocodiles in the world, the most genetically pure crocodiles of this species due to the geographic isolation. These crocodiles are powerful and highly intelligent predators and each individual has their own personality with well-defined characteristics.
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The crocodiles are extraordinary creatures, and being in their presence, so close, in their natural domain, was truly breathtaking experience for me. For those who are wondering why they don’t attack me and instead let me approach them undisturbed and even touch them, the answer is simply that they could attack at any moment if they had the opportunity.
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Even though most of these crocodiles are much larger than us humans, sometimes by a wide margin, in general, they view an adult human as “too big” and less convenient prey than the creatures they often eat, which are much smaller in size, such as fish, birds, and crustaceans.
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That being said, crocodiles certainly don’t disdain larger prey and may also attack humans should the opportunity arise. The “safest” way to approach these crocodiles is directly in front of them (due to their limited visual range,) and at their level or below them in the water column. Straight in front of them because usually when they strike, they snap to the side, and do not lunge forward with a bite. They are highly intelligent animals, and they are constantly observing you. Their eyes are always following your movements in the water.
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Sometimes happens that even if they are approached from the front, they slowly but steadily position themselves on your side, ready to take advantage of any possible moment of distraction to assess the attack. Never take your eyes off the crocodile if you swim with them!!
I have never had an accident, and I have never used any kind of protection in doing these activities but make no mistake, this does not mean that I am reckless. It is important to mention that I, and all the people I know, who are involved in this kind of activities, are professionals in the field of activities related to nature and to the interaction with apex predators.
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Each of these animals has different behavior and therefore the approach is taken to get close to them in the water is different. In addition, to realize my activities, I always rely on the collaboration of local guides, who know very well the particular characteristics of the places and wildlife.
BONITA SPRINGS, FL – SEPTEMBER 29: Vehicles float in the water after Hurricane Ian on September 29, … [+] 2022 in Bonita Springs, Florida. Hurricane Ian brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage. (Photo by Sean Rayford/Getty Images)
Getty Images
It is not hurricane season, but a particularly notable storm from 2022 is still on our minds. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) released its tropical cyclone report on Hurricane Ian (2022) and a familiar message emerged. Water is still the deadliest aspect of a hurricane. Scholars have driven home this message in recent years, and Ian was no different. Here are some key findings from the report along with some important context.
TOPSHOT – An aerial picture taken on September 29, 2022 shows a flooded neighborhood in the … [+] aftermath of Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers, Florida. – Hurricane Ian left much of coastal southwest Florida in darkness early on Thursday, bringing “catastrophic” flooding that left officials readying a huge emergency response to a storm of rare intensity. The National Hurricane Center said the eye of the “extremely dangerous” hurricane made landfall just after 3:00 pm (1900 GMT) on the barrier island of Cayo Costa, west of the city of Fort Myers. (Photo by Ricardo ARDUENGO / AFP) (Photo by RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images)
AFP via Getty Images
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) report, “Ian made landfall in southwestern Florida at category 4 intensity (on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale), producing catastrophic storm surge, damaging winds, and historic freshwater flooding across much of central and northern Florida.” The report goes on to note that Ian reached a peak intensity of 140 kt (a category 5 hurricane) just prior to landfall (September 28th, 2022) on the barrier island of Cayo Costa, Florida. The storm was directly or indirectly responsible for over 150 deaths and produced over $112 billion in damage.
How does this compare to previous storms? Hurricane Ian now stands as the costliest hurricane in the state of Florida’s history, it ranks third-costliest in U.S. history, according to NOAA.
Storm surge associated with Hurricane Ian (2022)
NOAA/NHC
The cause of most fatalities was consistent with previous studies that sounded alarms about the danger of water in hurricanes. The NHC report went on to say, “Storm surge was the deadliest hazard, claiming 41 lives, with 36 of the 41 surge fatalities occurring in Lee County, Florida….12 direct fatalities attributed to freshwater flooding in central and eastern Florida, 8 were categorized as marine fatalities….” Four fatalities were related to wind. Many experts, including me, continue to worry that people may downplay the water risk, misinterpret the “cones”, or underestimate compound effects of surge and rainfall. Additionally, the primary risk communication tool is a wind-based scale, the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
Rainfall amounts associated with Hurricane Ian (2022)
NOAA/NWS/NCEP
All of the direct fatalities (storm surge, flooding, rip currents, rough seas, lightning, or wind-related) happened in Florida. Hurricane Ian was also responsible for 90 indirect fatalities (medical emergencies, electrocutions, accidents, downed power lines, carbon monoxide poisoning, etc.) from Florida to Virginia. Hurricanes are typically multi-hazard events, and it is important that the public demolish the mental models that assume danger is simply contained at a point, line, or cone. It is always difficult to write about this material as lives were fundamentally changed. However, it is always my hope that something written will help someone in the next Ian-like storm.
Direct (top) and Indirect (bottom) fatalities associated with Hurricane Ian (2022).
If you are like me, you take lots of photos when you travel. Photos of your kids. Photos of delectable desserts. Photos of the beach. A selfie in front of a famous landmark. A family selfie as you travel.
Have you ever considered a family photoshoot while on vacation? Family photography creates lasting memories and adds more fun travel moments to your vacation experiences.
Why Plan a Family Photoshoot on Your Next Vacation?
I am pretty good at recording family vacations on a personal family blog and adding in vacation photos. However, many people take pictures while on vacation that often end up floating in the cloud or living forever on their cell phone.
How do you capture epic photos of family that you’ll want to download, hang on your walls or give as gifts?
Schedule a family photoshoot. (Even better? Schedule a BEACH family photoshoot!)
Booking a family photoshoot is not something you do everyday. Discover the 10 reasons to hire a vacation photographer and capture amazing family photos.
1. A Vacation Photographer has Expertise and Skills
I like to consider myself an amateur photographer. As such, I take some pretty great photos on vacation. However, bringing all of my camera equipment on vacation is more that I want to carry.
In addition, having someone else—a vacation photographer—worry about the lighting, suggest the best family photoshoot location (one where they have shot before), and create a stress-free family photoshoot makes for a much more relaxing vacation and experience for me.
A vacation photographer has expertise in:
Capturing candid shots
Managing kids
Taking photos of couples
Posing larger groups
Making a family photoshoot fun
Creating authentic and fun travel moments in a location where they are comfortable
There are many companies that offer vacation photography services all over the world. If you choose to hire them (simply because you don’t always have connections in Paris or Venice or wherever you want to have a family photoshoot on vacation), be sure to read the reviews and fine print and make sure they are aware of your expectations.
2. To Capture Your Growing, Changing Family
But why plan a family photoshoot while on vacation?
When kids are young, it is easier to plan a family photo session and work with schedules, nap times, and close to home locations.
As kids get older and schedules are busier, it is more challenging to get everyone together. Especially when kids head off to college, move away from home for work, or begin having families of their own.
Planning a family photoshoot while on vacation means that everyone is together and you schedule the time in advance. It gives you the chance to celebrate occasions together as well: birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, etc.
3. You Can Be in the Photos
Chances are you are the designated family photographer, and many times on vacation you are snapping photos here and there and rarely get a chance to be in the pictures yourself. You have to make a conscious effort to ask someone else to take a picture of you to prove you were on vacation too!
Maybe you don’t like having your photo taken.
Professional photographers know how to work with individuals and families to create natural, flattering poses, make sure your hair looks just right, and fix clothing malfunctions.
4. You Receive High Quality Photos to Frame, Share and Display
The bonus of hiring a professional photographer is the high quality photos you receive as part of your package.
5. The Vacation Photographer is Local
As stated above, having someone else—a vacation photographer—lets them worry about the lighting, suggest the best family photoshoot locations (ones where they have shot before) and create a stress-free family photoshoot.
Whether you are planning a beach family photoshoot or traveling to the mountains of Colorado, to Paris or Rome, a local photographer knows the best time of day to shoot, the best backdrops, the best colors to suggest, and the best poses for your family size.
In the process, you benefit from candid family photography, a beautiful beach aesthetic, gorgeous mountain or location shots…all to create fun travel and family memories.
6. Family Photography Anywhere in the World
Did you know that it is possible to book photographers anywhere you wish to travel?
You can do your own research and search online for photographers in your chosen location or chose to work with companies that specialize in creating a database of skilled vacation photographers all around the world.
7. Improve your Instagram Photos
You will need to be sure you have permission to post photos of your family photography on Instagram, Facebook or other social media outlets. If yes, UP your Instagram aesthetic with awesome headshots, candid family photos, and perfectly posed shots.
If you plan a beach family photoshoot with your vacation photographer, you may inspire others to do the same. At the very least, you’ll get likes and comments and LOVE on your posts.
8. It’s a Unique Experience and Gorgeous Backdrop
The change in scenery from your normal photoshoot location is a great way to record new family memories. If you have your photos taken every year or so in your home state, having a family photoshoot on vacation, especially a beach family photoshoot if you don’t live by the beach, creates a beautiful new backdrop.
You may find that everyone is a little more relaxed on vacation and you may be sporting a sun-kissed look. Time away from the stress of school and work and deadlines brings out the smiles. All good aesthetics for your family lifestyle photography.
9. Great Vacation Souvenir
Forget about the key chains, t-shirts, and cheesy souvenirs, vacation photography makes the best travel mementos.
Holiday cards
Yearly calendars
Graduation announcements
Family photo albums
Wall art
To share with grandparents
Gifts for family and friends
Postcards to send
Screensavers or wallpaper for phones
Family blog posts
10. Professional Editing Skills
If you need a little tweak in color here or a smudge removed there, vacation photographers have professional editing skills.
Be sure you review their policy on edits and know if they are in addition to regular session fees.
How to Find a Vacation Photographer
When looking for a vacation photographer:
If you have friends who live in the area, ask your friends for recommendations.
Do a Google search for photographers where you’ll be traveling.
Check world wide vacation photographer sites.
Check out the vacation photographer’s pricing, be aware of ALL of the fees, and know their cancellation policy.
Check out their photography style. You should be able to find this on their website, Instagram feedor Facebook page.
Read reviews.
You’ll be able to relax, enjoy your time with family, and create your own fun travel memories in a beautiful location knowing that everything is taken care of by a professional photographer—YOUR vacation photographer.
Reasons Why You Avoid Booking a Family Photoshoot, Especially on Vacation
You’re not a fan of the over-posed studio style photos
Children don’t behave or cooperate (those shots can make for some good memories that you’ll laugh at …someday)
You don’t like the way you look in photos: you and I are our own worst critics
You don’t want to be pressured into buying more than you want
The weather could be unpredictable
A photoshoot takes time away from your fun vacation
The cost (sometimes you need to think of this as investment in your family)
Family Photoshoot Tips
You may find these tips on your photographer’s website, or if they are similar to our vacation photographer, Christy Odom, she sent out regular reminders and tips prior to our session with her.
Keep it casual and relax. In Christy’s words “I can’t photoshop a stressed face into a relaxed one.”
Remove Fitbits and watches
Be spontaneous
Keep the session short
Go for the golden hour when light is most flattering
Plan what to wear in advance and make sure clothing is comfortable, fits and is clean. Bring all the accessories you may need and don’t forget about the shoes
Avoid sunburns, especially if you are planning a beach family photoshoot
Get a haircut prior to your session (preferably with someone you trust at least a week in advance)
Do full makeup (maybe a little heavier than normal) to avoid a washed out look
Think about props. You don’t need them but you might want some.
Photography Gear for ALL Your Other Vacation Photos
I take photos everyday and everywhere. Sometimes I quickly grab my phone before the opportunity is gone, and sometimes I use my DSLR for a well-composed quality shot.
Sometimes when I travel, I have both my phone and my camera ready to go (I look like such a tourist!)
Here are a few ideas for your camera gear options:
Just remember, you don’t have to travel with ALL of your photography equipment. Pack lightly. Take only the essentials. That may mean your camera body, one possibly two versatile lenses, and a few accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should we wear for family pictures?
What you choose to wear at the beach may be different from the colors you wear for a mountain photoshoot. Plan your outfits in advance to find colors and clothing that fit you well. Be sure to pay attention to layering and patterns and make sure you think about shoes as well. Choose a color palette with a few coordinating color options.
What is the best time of day for a family photoshoot?
If you are shooting outside, “Golden Hour” or the last hour before sunset and the first hour after sunrise are recommended by professional photographers. These times provide the perfect light to capture stunning photos. If you have an indoor photoshoot, your photographer might recommend daytime hours to capture the best interior light.
Is plaid a good option for family photos?
No, no, no! And that’s my personal opinion. Especially photos where everyone chooses a different color and style of plaid. Just don’t do it.
Should I copy an Instagram influencer’s posing and photography style?
Final Thoughts on Why You Should Plan a Family Photoshoot on Vacation
Vacations are often filled with some of the best memories. Memories do tend to fade with time. And if you have little ones, they might not even remember your special moments.
A family photoshoot creates the perfect opportunity to keep those memories alive.
They will be the best souvenir of your family vacation.
SAN ANTONIO – Overwhelming demand among parents seeking to get their children into the San Antonio Zoo’s nature-based preschool has far outstripped its capacity.
The Will Smith Zoo School, which opened its current Alamo City campus in 2018, now has a waiting list of more than 8,000 families, and stakeholders are exploring a potentially significant expansion of the unique model to meet that growing demand.
“We are putting together a group of philanthropists, entrepreneurs and business leaders to investigate how to grow this in San Antonio, around the country and internationally,” San Antonio Zoo CEO Tim Morrow told me.
The fully licensed preschool’s current capacity is 244 students. They’ve traveled to the midtown campus from Austin to Corpus Christi and points in between and represent a widely diverse population, including nearly a dozen languages.
The school is child focused, with enrollees spending at least half of every day outside. The classrooms have a low teacher-student ratio, featuring nature-based programming and flexible schedules. The kids spend part of every day in the zoo and follow a typical nine-month school year.
“People get on our list as soon as they’re pregnant. They show us their pregnancy test or bring pictures of their sonograms,” Morrow said.
Some parents from Mexico have reached out about availability, willing to make the commute to enroll their children even for a few days each week.
“We’ve had to put some controls in place so the waiting list is manageable,” Morrow said.
Zoo officials are working with a group that includes veteran educational leaders and successful entrepreneurs who know how to scale up a venture. Morrow said the focus is on how to create more such schools across a much wider footprint, and that could also include aligning with more zoos and universities too.
Read the full story on the San Antonio Business Journal.
Editor’s note: This story was published through a partnership between KSAT and the San Antonio Business Journal.
Some stargazers are happy to look, while others want to save far-off galaxies for the future with the best telescopes for astrophotography. Your choice of telescope comes, in part, down to what kind of astrophotography you want to do. A telescope that details the moon’s every last crevice is different from a model that lets you make the Andromeda Galaxy your next piece of wall art. Interplanetary photos are a different ball game, too.
It’s also important to start with a budget in mind. You can easily spend well over $1,000 and will probably spend at least that much for a model that results in high-quality images. However, there are a few budget-friendly models worth considering as well. Take a look at our list of the best telescopes for astrophotography for the models that fit different gazing and astrophotography goals, budgets, and portability needs.
— Best Overall: Sky-Watcher Skymax Maksutov-Cassegrain Reflector Telescope — Best for Deep Space: Explore Scientific ED127 Triplet Refractor Telescope — Best Portable: Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80 APO Doublet Refractor — Best for Beginners: Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope — Best Budget: Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD Newtonian Telescope
How We Picked the Best Telescopes for Astrophotography
Methodology
We picked telescopes based on the quality of their build, their optics, field of view, and focal ratio.
Build Quality: We avoided models with plastic pieces and cheap housing, except when looking at budget models. Build quality can affect the ability of the telescope to stay aligned and with viewing quality.
Optics: Everything from the aperture to the included eye pieces were factored into the optics. Telescopes have many parts and finding the right mix is key to achieving your viewing and astrophotography goals.
Field of View:Field of view affects the kind of objects you can photograph. We included those with a narrow field of view for closer objects and wider fields of view for deep-sky objects.
Focal Ratio:The focal ratio affects the speed of the telescope and determines what kind of objects you’ll be able to photograph. We included models on both ends of the spectrum, including middle of the road options for those who want an all purpose telescope for astrophotography. To capture more stunning views, explore our guide to the best 360 cameras.
The Best Telescopes for Astrophotography: Reviews and Recommendations
Best Telescope for Astrophotography Overall: Sky-Watcher Skymax Maksutov-Cassegrain Reflector Telescope
Sky Watcher
Why It Made The Cut: This Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope may have an f/15 optical ratio, but it can capture images of objects near and far, making it the best telescope for astrophotography.
Pros: — Bright clear views for in-solar system objects — Capable of deep-sky viewing and images — Relatively compact for the viewing power — Includes 1.25-inch adapter
Cons: — Doesn’t come with a mount
The Sky-Watcher Skymax Reflector Telescopeis a compound telescope that offers a long focal length in a relatively compact design. It weighs 17 pounds, and you get excellent, clear views of the moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects.
A 1.25-inch adapter comes with the telescope, so you can directly attach a DSLR camera and get snapping once you’ve located the desired object. The f/15 focal ratio does mean it’s considered a slow telescope so taking deep-sky shots is a little harder. However, as long as those objects are bright, this telescope can capture the images.
Keep in mind that this model doesn’t come with a mount. You’ll have to purchase one separately. Depending on the type you choose, they can be pricey.
Best Telescope for Deep Space Astrophotography: Explore Scientific ED127 Triplet Refractor Telescope
Explore Scientific
Why It Made The Cut: This model’s five-inch APO refractor can target faint deep-sky objects, making it the best telescope for deep-space astrophotography.
Pros: — Excellent build quality — Works with a wide range of accessories — Can mount a DSLR camera to the cradle handle with additional accessory — Light enough to be portable with handle on the tube rings
Cons: — Does not include mount — Cannot be used with a focal reducer
TheExplore Scientific ED127 Triplet Refractor Telescopeis a versatile telescope that can take (with the right accessories) photos of galaxies and other deep-sky objects. Even in poor light conditions, the ED127 can capture impressive images.
It comes with a 1.25-inch eyepiece adapter that fits some astrophotography cameras, but you may need a T-adapter for certain DSLR cameras. This model also gets points for portability thanks to the handle on the tube rings. The handle makes it easy to mount despite its power and weight.
However, this model doesn’t come with a mount, so you’ll have to purchase one separately, adding several hundred dollars to the cost. Additionally, this model cannot be used with a focal reducer, limiting its use in certain types of astrophotography.
Best Portable: Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80 APO Doublet Refractor
Sky Watcher
Why It Made The Cut: This model’s small size hides the power and clarity that it offers more serious astrophotographers, making it the best portable telescope for astrophotography.
Pros: — Impressive optical image quality — Lets you delve into professional-quality astrophotography — CA stays controlled with the doublet and moderate focal ratio
Cons: — Not a good choice for beginners — Expensive — Includes only the tube with a few accessories
The Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80 APO Doublet Refractor offers an impressive array of optics that create vivid detail and image quality. However, attaining that quality may require the purchase of a few extra accessories. Consequently, this isn’t a model for beginners.
However, for advanced beginners, intermediate, and even some advanced astrophotographers, the EvoStar 80 provides the quality and ability to travel with the telescope. At only 7.3 pounds, you can take it to the local mountaintop for a broader range of spectacular views as you escape light pollution. The optical specs, including a 1.45 Dawes limit, 1.75 Rayleigh limit, and 12 limiting magnitude, squeeze every last ounce of optical quality, especially in a tube this size.
If you know what you’re doing and you’re serious enough in astrophotography to know the difference between good and great optical quality, this is a portable telescope that will not disappoint.
Best Beginner Astrophotography Telescope: Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope
Celestron
Why It Made The Cut: The 114LCM gets beginners started on the right foot with easy setup and identification, making it the best beginner astrophotography telescope.
Pros: — Quick, straightforward assembly — Computerized mount makes it easier to identify and target objects — Includes Sky Tour button to get familiar with the night sky
Cons: — Cannot take deep-sky images
The Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescopenot only lets beginners start taking photographs right away but also introduces them to the night sky. The included mount even has a Sky Tour button that takes users on a guided journey through the heavens. While it doesn’t have the optics to do deep-sky astrophotography, you can connect a webcam, astrophotography camera, or mobile phone to start taking photos.
You don’t have to be an expert to assemble the telescope and get started right away, which is key for beginners. This model is also relatively lightweight and portable.
Best Budget: Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD Newtonian Telescope
Celestron
Why It Made The Cut: The 130 EQ stays under $500 and provides sharp, clear views of in-solar system objects for astrophotography, making it the best affordable telescope for astrophotography.
Pros: — Good views of solar system and moon for the price — Red dot finder makes it easier to target — Affordable price for a telescope that can be used for basic planetary and moon photography
Cons: — Mount can be difficult to adjust — Parts feel cheap
The Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD Newtonian Telescopeis one of the best telescopes for astrophotography under $500. While the quality of the build and accessories can sometimes reflect the low price, users get excellent views of the moon and planets. That’s also where this telescope shines when it comes to astrophotography: closer objects. A red dot finder, which shines a red dot on the lens, helps users hone in on their target, too.
You can use this telescope for viewing deep-sky objects, but your chances of getting a good photo at those longer distances aren’t great with this model.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Telescope for Astrophotography
Mount Type
Before you invest in a telescope, consider what type of mount you already have or the mount that comes with the telescope. The mount is especially important if you want to take long exposure (slow) images.
Mount importance comes down to the fact that the Earth is rotating, which alters the location of the object as you’re taking a photo. Without the right mount, you can end up with blurred images or images with a visible trail.
One of the best options for astrophotography is the equatorial mount. These mounts require only one axis adjustment to follow the object. In comparison, an alt-azimuth mount requires adjusting two axis while you’re trying to track the object. Mounts can be manual or automatic. Automatic equatorial mounts are more expensive, but they leave you free to change eyepieces or take photos.
Keep in mind that although a telescope may come with one kind of mount, you can buy a different mount separately.
Focal Ratio
The focal ratio is the telescope’s focal length divided by the aperture. The resulting number is the f/number, such as f/4 or f/11. A smaller focal ratio, those below f/5, indicates a faster telescope in that it gathers light at a faster rate than a model with a slower focal rate. These models are fast and have a wider field of view, making them more suited to deep-sky photography. They have shorter focal lengths (the distance between the eyepiece and the lens), which also makes them lighter and easier to carry.
Slow telescopes have a focal ratio of f/8 or higher. Their longer focal lengths require slower shutter speeds to gather the same amount of light as a slow telescope. They have a narrower field of view but capture greater detail, making them a better choice for images within our solar system, like the moon or planets.
Optical Design
There are many types of telescopes, but those most pertinent to astrophotography include:
Refractor telescopes: Refractor telescopes are one of the most popular astrophotography telescope types. They give you more ability to correct chromatic aberration. Chromatic aberration is when light rays focus at different points, creating different colors around the object’s borders. Refractor telescopes provide more adjustments to fix this problem. They come in APO (apochromatic) and semi-APO design, with APO offering the best chromatic aberration correction.
Reflecting telescopes: Newtonian and Gregorian telescopes fall into this category. They have mirrors instead of lenses. The Newtonian Dobsonian telescopes are among the most affordable and easiest telescopes to use, making them a good choice for beginners. However, depending on the targeted object, they don’t typically offer the best optical quality as some of the other types of telescopes.
Schmidt-Cassegrain and Maksutov-Cassegrain: Schmidt-Cassegrain and Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes are both catadioptric (also called compound telescopes) models. They’re a hybrid between refractor and reflector telescopes, having both lenses and mirrors. These models offer great optical correction features like refractor telescopes and provide long focal lengths in a relatively short tube for greater detail (and photographs) with a smaller telescope.
FAQs
Q: What is the best telescope for astrophotography? The Sky-Watcher Skymax provides a balance between size and weight, focal length and ratio, and price. This model’s f/15 focal ratio provides better views of the planets and the moon than deep-space objects. However, the design gives it a wider field of view than similar telescopes, allowing for impressive deep-space images for those with the skill to acquire their target. This telescope is a great option for someone who wants to dabble in both deep space and in-solar system astrophotography.
Q: Do you need a special telescope for astrophotography? You don’t necessarily need a special telescope for astrophotography. Many telescopes that aren’t designed specifically for astrophotography have connectors or accessories that connect the telescope to a DSLR camera or mobile phone for photography purposes. Several of the telescopes on our list fall into this category. However, other models are designed specifically for astrophotography. These models range from those that are basically a camera lens that acts like a telescope to telescopes that connect directly to a DSLR camera. You can go either route. Beginners typically begin with a general telescope that can be used for astrophotography, while astrophotography veterans opt for specialty equipment.
Q: Which telescope is best to see galaxies? The Explore Scientific ED127 Triplet Refractor Telescope is the best telescope for seeing and photographing galaxies. The f/7.5 focal ratio, however, also makes it a great option if you want to take shots of closer objects too. It’s a large telescope that offers incredible views both near and far, but it’s hard to beat its deep-sky abilities.
Q: What size telescope do I need to photograph galaxies? The size of the telescope’s field of view, which you’ll find on model’s with small focal ratios, makes a bigger difference for photographing galaxies than the telescope’s overall size. A wide field of view makes it easier to track and find deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulas. Having said that, a telescope with an eight-inch or higher aperture will help you see and photograph galaxies better, too.
Q: Can you use a Dobsonian telescope for astrophotography? You can use a Dobsonian telescope for astrophotography as long as the object is bright and clear. Dim, faint objects won’t produce very good photos with these telescopes. They’re better suited for photographing the moon on a bright night or bright planets.
Q: What is a good starter telescope for astrophotography? Both the Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope and the Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD Newtonian Telescope are great starter telescopes. Celestron is also well known for its customer service, which can be helpful for beginners. These models will still take some getting used to, but the computerized 114LCM can help newbies find and track objects much faster than a manual mount. The AstroMaster offers good optics for the price, giving beginners a chance to decide if they want to invest in a more expensive telescope later on. Budding astronomers may also be interested in exploring the cosmos virtually with the best space games.
Final Thoughts
The Sky-Watcher Skymax Reflector Telescope offers the best blend of quality with image quality. Its price makes it more feasible for experienced astrophotographers, but you’ll get images with quality that are well above the price. If you’re on a budget, the Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope orCelestron AstroMaster 130EQ-MD Newtonian Telescope are great options. The 114LCM’s SkyTour and automatic mount make it a great choice for beginners.
This post was created by a non-news editorial team at Recurrent Media, Futurism’s owner. Futurism may receive a portion of sales on products linked within this post.
Exascend is a little-known memory card manufacturer here in the UK but globally are well-established and has passed the certification requirements of DJI, RED, BMD and Z CAM. The company has just released its Essential series CFexpress Type A memory card, which promises to deliver cinema-grade performance in a compact form factor. Optimized for professional photography and cinematography, the Essential CFexpress Type A card features patented technologies to ensure top-level stability without dropping frames.
One of the key selling points of the Essential CFexpress Type A card is its transfer speed. The card offers read and write speeds of up to 900 MB/s and 800 MB/s, respectively. This means that professionals can transfer large image and video files quickly and efficiently, allowing for a more streamlined workflow.
For photographers and videographers, fast transfer speeds are essential for keeping up with the demands of modern-day production. With high-resolution cameras producing larger files, it can take considerable time to transfer files from the camera to a computer. This can slow down the creative process and sometimes result in missed opportunities.
The Essential CFexpress Type A card’s fast transfer speeds can help to eliminate these issues. Photographers and videographers can transfer files quickly, allowing them to return to the creative process sooner. This can lead to more efficient productions and more time to capture that perfect shot.
In addition to fast transfer speeds, the Essential CFexpress Type A card also features Exascend’s patented SuperCruise technology, which enhances sustained performance, and Adaptive Thermal Control technology, which tackles the issue of overheating and thermal throttling in high-performance PCIe NVMe flash storage devices.
The Essential CFexpress Type A card is fully compatible with all existing camera systems utilizing CFexpress Type A currently on the market, including Sony a1, a7S III, A7 IV, FX3, and FX6. With a rugged product design, the card is protected against shocks, vibrations, magnetism, and more, making it a durable option for photographers and videographers working in demanding environments.
Overall, the Essential CFexpress Type A card from Exascend offers fast transfer speeds and patented technologies that can benefit photographers and videographers looking for a reliable and efficient storage solution. With a range of capacities available, professionals can choose the option that best suits their needs and take their productions to the next level.
For more information check out ExAscend CFExpress type-A cards
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A Russian tourist who took a semi-nude photo at a sacred Bali site may be deported after the picture went viral online.
The tourist, identified only by his first name, Yuri, shared a picture of himself naked from the waist down at Mount Agung, the highest point on the Indonesian island.
Ni Luh Djelantik, a politician and businesswoman from Bali, told CNN that she had mediated a reconciliation between Yuri, Russian tourists and the local people around Mount Agung.
Hindu Balinese believe that Mount Agung, a volcano, represents the god Shiva. A permit is required for anyone who wishes to hike it.
Yuri has since removed the offending photo from his Instagram page and replaced it with a video of him apologizing.
“There is no excuse for my actions. The only thing that led to what happened was my personal ignorance,” he wrote in the post.
“After studying the culture and religion of Bali, I realized my mistake. Agung is a sacred symbol for the Balinese. Shiva destroys the universe in a continuous circle of rebirths. The locals revere the gods and believe that if you anger them, an eruption will occur. And this will lead to the destruction of the island.”
This screengrab shows Yuri apologizing for his actions after he shared a picture of himself naked from the waist down at Mount Agung. – chila_brazila/Instagram
As part of the mediation worked out by Ni Luh, Yuri will reportedly participate in a traditional macaru, which is a ceremony carried out by Balinese Hindus to maintain harmony between humans and nature.
Yuri’s case is now being handled by the Bali director general of immigration and he is required to report every day to the Bali Immigration Office.
No final decision has been made on whether he will be deported from the island or permitted to stay following the ceremony.
Of late, Bali’s government has made moves to crack down on foreign tourists whose behavior runs afoul of local customs.
On March 12, the tourism board posted an English-language advisory for visitors. The list of suggestions included: “Do not post offensive, vulgar pictures to social media.”
The same day, Bali Governor Wayan Koster announced that foreigners would no longer be allowed to rent motorbikes and that international visitors would not be able to work on the island without the proper visas – a move intended to go after some of the “digital nomads” who live on Bali while working remotely.
Russians are currently the second largest tourist group in Bali. More than 43,000 Russian nationals arrived on the island in the first three months of 2023.
One reason for the influx is that some young Russians are fleeing their native country in order to avoid being drafted into the military.
Their presence on Bali has not been universally welcomed.
A police officer in the town of Kuta told CNN that “whenever we get reports about a foreigner behaving badly, it’s almost always Russian.”
Currently, Russian passport holders can get a 30-day visa on arrival to Bali, with the ability to extend it to 60 days. However, amid recent backlash, some Balinese are calling for immigration to tighten entry rules.
CNN’s Heather Chen contributed reporting.
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