Description

Norah Head Lighthouse – Light the Stars

I have visited Norah Head many times over the years. During the day, and also at night. For astrophotography, I have generally visited in March/April, to capture the core rising over the sea, however, this time was in August. My good friend Jan had baled me up and asked me if I would like to join him for a shoot at Norah Head, as it’s kind of ‘my way’.

We ended up shooting over two evenings and I have to admit I left early on the second (my sleep, my sleep!). It wasn’t too cold, nor too windy, and I was actually quite pleased with the outcome, as I had done zero planning.

The tides this year have been relentless, and beach erosion has been huge. In this instance I was able to – very carefully – stand at the edge of the famed rock-shelf, and shoot west (yes, West) to the lighthouse. And with a high tide, I was able to capture the highlights on the water. I say carefully, as the swell was not small, and if you are looking west, then, let me remember, ah that’s right, waves come up behind you from the east!

It took a few attempts to balance the highlights in the water and the lighthouse bulb against the rest of the scene. 

EOS5D Mk III ~ Samyang 24mm ~ 15s plus 3stops under for bulb plus 30 secs for water ~ F2.8 ~ ISO 3200