One of the best types of photography is astrophotography. It’s magic in catching stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way in a single image. With more people taking part in astrophotography as technology grows and camera gear becomes cheaper and cheaper, there will be more that we can see and learn. In fact, knowing where to take your amazing star photos in 2025 is at least as important as knowing how to shoot them. This blog takes a look at the best places to do astrophotography, some handy tips, and a simple guide on how to take star photographs.
First off, it is important to understand what characteristics should make a place suitable for night sky photography before we wade out into the best destinations. Darkness is the most important factor. And because of light pollution from the nearest cities and towns, you won't get clear photos of the night sky.
Another key factor is weather. Clear skies are essential. Likewise, you should also seek areas with a high elevation, as it will lower the amount of atmospheric interference. Wide, open landscapes that have little between them and the sky are better, and if you want foreground elements such as mountains, trees, or lakes in your photos, so much the better.
One of the globe's most popular destinations for astrophotography is Mauna Kea. This dormant volcano, situated at 14,000 feet above sea level, offers a year-round bright, black sky. Professional and amateur photographers alike adore it due to its high elevation and distance from city lights. Mauna Kea continues to be a favorite among Milky Way photographers in 2025.
The Atacama Desert, the driest place on the planet, is located in South America. Its sky is also the cleanest in the world. The desert is perfect for astrophotography as it receives little rainfall and there is little light pollution. The perfect conditions for star-gazing are illustrated by the telescope facilities of the European Southern Observatory.
Since Jasper is a Dark Sky Preserve, special measures are in place to minimize light pollution in the area. Here's where you need to come if you want to witness not only stunning night skies but also amazing natural scenery. Photographers can learn, take photos, and share their knowledge at the park's annual Dark Sky Festival, which occurs in October each year.
The Namib Desert has Africa's darkest night skies and wide open landscapes. It is also among the planet's most scenic destinations due to its giant dunes and unique landscape. There are more travelers visiting Namibia this year, 2025, to escape light pollution and have exclusive observations of the southern hemisphere sky.
Aoraki Mackenzie is a huge dark sky reserve situated in New Zealand's South Island. Here you can shoot the Milky Way on the rise above mountains covered with snow, gleaming lakes, and glaciers. A night sky paradise for a photographer like you, this spot needs to be topmost in your plans if you plan to travel there in 2025 to try your luck with astrophotography.
The most important thing you'll need is a camera capable of photographing well in low light. A best bet is a manual-setting DSLR or mirrorless camera. Utilize a fast, wide-angle lens with a broad aperture (f/2.8 or lower), like a 14mm or 24mm lens. To keep your camera steady for long exposures, you'll also need a solid tripod.
Use a high ISO (1600-6400), a slow shutter speed (10-30 seconds), and focus manually on infinity. All are suggested camera settings. The higher the sensitivity of your camera to light, the bigger the opening. Use a timer or remote shutter release to avoid camera shake.
Pre-visualizing your shot is one of the best astrophotography tips. Consult the Milky Way's time, moon phase, and star positions using programs such as PhotoPills, Stellarium, or SkySafari. Avoid full moon nights since they could cover the sky. The best time to shoot is during the new moon or the days immediately before and after it.
Engaging foreground elements are often present in wonderful night sky photos. Houses, mountains, forests, and lakes can all add depth and drama to your image. The viewer is attracted and provided with a sense of place by a well-photographed image.
The Milky Way is not always observable at night. The core of the galaxy is above the horizon from April to September, which is the best time of year to photograph it in most locations. The most scenic part is the core, where dust clouds and glittering stars are found.
The center tends to come up in the east and go down in the west in the southern sky of the north. It goes more directly overhead in the south. Knowing this helps decide which direction to point your camera.
Spotter locations for Milky Way photography need a direct sight to the southern horizon and are devoid of any light pollution. Use apps to track the location of the core and reach early to your position setup early. More detail on the galactic core will be displayed by an extensively opened aperture, greater ISO, and extended exposure.
If your initial picture is pale, you can improve the contrast and colors of the Milky Way by later editing your photos through Lightroom or Photoshop.
Begin with simple compositions if you are a beginner at capturing night sky photos. Before proceeding to complex Milky Way images or star trails, attempt to capture magnificent stars or constellations. You will develop your focus and framing abilities along with your knowledge of how your gear works at night.
If your first shots are not so good, don't quit. While there is a learning curve, the payoff is worth it. Go over your photos and make a list of what does and doesn't work. Experiment slowly with different locations, seasons, and circumstances.
Before heading for an overnight shoot, particularly in a remote area, always inform someone of your destination. To preserve your night vision, use a red-light headlamp or flashlight. In the event of an emergency, have a charged phone, bring water, and dress warmly.
Astrophotography is part science, part art, and lots of patience. In 2025, the best places for astrophotography are those that are dark, quiet, and naturally beautiful. As long as you're shooting the Milky Way over a desert, stars over snow-capped peaks, or constellations by the ocean, the right location really does lend itself to an amazing picture.
It's key to understand how to photograph stars and to plan your shoots with care. More locations are becoming popular for night sky photography, but they are increasingly being protected as more people take an interest. Respect the places you visit, and be careful with the beauty of the night sky.
This content was created by AI