July Milky Way Meet Up - Wupatki National Monument - 2 Night Event

Hello fellow Photographers!

Let's head up north during the heat of the summer for 2 nights and capture the Milky Way and maybe some star trails at the Wupatki National Monument.

Join us for an unforgettable night under the stars as we capture the beauty of the Milky Way! This event is perfect for photographers of all skill levels—whether you're just starting with night photography or looking to refine your astrophotography techniques.

🏠Accommodations are the responsibility of each attendee. I am staying at the Grand Canyon Oasis and RV park in a tiny home Airbnb, which is very close to the Monument.

https://grandcanyonoasis.com/

🏠Additional accommodations can be booked at the Cameron Trading Post along with a highly rated restaurant, shops etc.

https://camerontradingpost.com/

🏠The Coconino National Forest offers numerous camping opportunities near Wupatki and Sunset Crater National Monuments. Please be aware campground opening and closing dates are subject to change based on weather and other considerations.

• Bonito Campground (17 mi/27 km)
• O'leary Group Campground (17 mi/27 km)
• Cinder Hills OHV Dispersed Camping Area (16 mi/26 km)

The Itinerary

📍Fri July 25th

• I will be in the Monument scouting out the Pueblos before check in (4pm)
• Dinner Get Together at Hotel in Cameron 5pm (must confirm with me via text 623-759-4610 so I can make rezo's)
• Gather at Wukoki Pueblo 7:15pm (shoot golden hour and blue hour foregrounds/pueblos for blending later)
• Galactic Centre rises right after astronomical twilight (9:30pm)

📍Sat July 26th

• Sunrise in the Monument [Golden Hour starts 5am, meet at 430am] (location decided on Fri)
• Explore the Painted Desert Project after sunrise shoot (cooler outside) to scout for Blue Hour and Astro Images (along HWY 89) with a more decaying-liminal-urban feel
• May shoot Astro at the Painted Desert Project or in the Monument, depends on scouting outcome
• Galactic Centre rises right after astronomical twilight (9:30pm)

What to Expect:

• A chance to photograph the Milky Way in a stunning dark sky location.
• Tips on camera settings, composition, and focusing in the dark.
• Opportunities to experiment with light painting and foreground elements.
• A relaxed, friendly environment to learn and share photography ideas.

Recommended Gear:

• A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings.
• A fast wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or lower is ideal).
• A sturdy tripod.
• A remote shutter release or intervalometer.
• A headlamp with a red light option to preserve night vision.

Important Notes:

• This event is weather-dependent; if cloud cover is too thick, we may reschedule.
• Be mindful of light pollution—use red lights and avoid unnecessary screen brightness.
• Respect the natural environment and pack out any trash.

Come ready to embrace the night sky, connect with fellow photographers, and create celestial images!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Jennifer
623-759-4610
Landscape Photographer | Storyteller | Nature Enthusiast | Pagan Inspired

Blog, Emails, Workshops: jennrichardsonphoto.com
Bluesky: @wild-and-wander
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