Observatory Photography

Photographing observatories or other manmade structures brings out some fine details and color.  The composition because more important to give the photo some depth and the environment around the main subject.  With my gallery I have also included not only telescope domes, but the telescopes them self.  Working at the Kitt Peak Visitor Center gives me some advantages.    

Capturing the images

When I am planning my day for any kind of structure being a observatory or something else.  I always use a tripod of some kind and use a full frame camera.  The lenses I use vary on the subject, but the Canon 24-70 F/2.8 lens is the most popular lens I use.   The 100-400 telephoto is useful when the structure is too far or in a position that cannot be reached.  In contrast, I will use the Canon 11-24 wide angle lens when the structure is too large. 

Most of the time a flash is not really needed because there is enough sunlight to provide light.  There are times when a tripod is needed because I am inside.   When outside, the time of day is somewhat important.  The early morning or late afternoon lighting adds more color and shadows more so near sunset.   It is always nice to see clouds in the sky that add to the composition.  Once the sun sets, a new world opens with nighttime photography with the milky way, star trails, and other photographic effects.