Night Sky Photography: From Classroom to the Coast

Learn night-sky photography, then join us at Coquina Beach that evening for a hands-on portrait session beneath the stars. Join us during Gulf Coast Camera’s Grand Brand Opening in Bradenton for a free introduction to night-sky photography. The event begins Saturday afternoon with a one-hour class at Gulf Coast Camera. We’ll cover the fundamentals of photographing stars and the night sky, including camera settings, focusing in the dark, lens selection, composition, and the equipment needed for a successful nighttime shoot. Later that evening, weather permitting, we’ll meet at Coquina Beach for an optional hands-on field session. We’ll use the night sky and waxing moon as the setting for creative environmental portraits while practicing the techniques covered during class. Schedule Daytime Class Saturday, 2:30–3:30 PM Gulf Coast Camera in Bradenton 6709 State Road 70 E Bradenton, FL 34203 Night-Sky Portrait Session Saturday, 8:30–9:15 PM Coquina Beach Bradenton Beach, FL The exact beach meeting point will be provided to registered participants. What to Bring for the Beach Session - A camera with manual exposure controls - A wide-angle or standard lens - A sturdy tripod - A fully charged battery - An empty memory card - A small flashlight or headlamp - Bug spray and appropriate beach footwear The class and field session are free, but registration is required and space may be limited. The beach session is dependent upon weather and sky conditions. Cloud cover, haze, rain, and moonlight may affect the visibility of the stars and Milky Way. Any schedule changes will be communicated to registered participants.