Chasing the Milky Way

Photographing the Milky Way is one of the most rewarding adventures I’ve ever experienced. There’s something magical about stepping into the night, far from the noise and lights of the city, and standing under a sky filled with stars. It’s quiet, it’s humbling—and it always feels like the universe is letting you in on a secret.

The best time to see the Milky Way is between spring and early fall—especially from May to August when the bright galactic core is visible. I always check for a new moon and clear skies, then head out somewhere remote where the darkness is untouched by light pollution. Whether it’s a desert, a beach, or a mountain trail, the location adds its own character to the shot.

The process takes patience. I use a wide-angle lens and shoot with a long exposure to let in as much starlight as possible. Every setting—from focus to ISO—is dialed in carefully. But honestly, what matters most is being there. You wait in the dark, watching the stars slowly appear, and then the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a river of light. And in that moment, it doesn’t feel like you’re just taking a photo—it feels like you’re witnessing something ancient.

For me, astrophotography isn’t just about technique or gear. It’s about the experience of slowing down and connecting to something bigger than yourself. It’s a reminder that beauty exists in the quiet, in the shadows, and in the vastness above us.