Astrophotography Summer Camp for Teens – Capture the Moon, Stars & Milky Way
Teens will use a camera to explore low-light techniques and capture stunning celestial images. This hands-on summer camp builds creative confidence while teaching essential skills for photographing the night sky.
Erika Hatfield & Next Level Photo Education
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(485)
Star Educator
What's included
3 live meetings
2 hrs 45 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Each week, students will complete photography assignments to practice night time photography. At the beginning of every session, we’ll dedicate time for learners to share their photos taken during the week. Homework images can be uploaded to the Outschool classroom before class or shared via webcam during the live Zoom session. Learners will receive constructive feedback on all images presented in class, helping them improve their skills and creativity.Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Intermediate - Advanced Level
Embark on an exciting journey into astrophotography! In this hands-on summer camp, teens will learn to capture stunning long-exposure images of the stars, moon, and Milky Way using a DSLR or mirrorless camera and a tripod. Students will explore essential techniques like focusing in low light, adjusting exposure settings, and composing breathtaking night sky shots. To get the best results, learners should plan to photograph from a location with minimal light pollution, either during or between classes. 📷 Day 1 – Getting Started with Astrophotography Camera and tripod setup for night photography Understanding ISO, shutter speed, and aperture in low light How to choose a location and prepare for night shoots 🌙 Day 2 – Focus & Composition Techniques How to manually focus in the dark for sharp images Composing photos of stars, the moon, and wide night sky scenes Night shoot suggestions for between classes 🌌 Day 3 – Capturing Stars & the Milky Way Best settings for photographing the Milky Way and constellations Tips for reducing blur and light pollution Sharing images for instructor feedback and discussion The instructor provides personalized feedback on images, helping students refine their technical skills and artistic vision. By the end of camp, participants will have a portfolio of celestial images and a deeper understanding of night photography techniques. 💡 Individual & Group Learning: This class runs with a minimum of one learner. If your student prefers a group experience, request a transfer at least 24 hours before class.
Learning Goals
Learn to effectively use long-exposure settings to capture stunning images of stars and the Milky Way.Develop skills to focus your camera accurately in dark environments for clearer, sharper night sky photos.
Other Details
Learning Needs
With a Master’s in Special Education, Erika designs our courses to be inclusive and engaging for diverse learners. Our hands-on, interactive approach keeps students actively involved, and we’re happy to provide accommodations.
Parental Guidance
Learners will be encouraged to take photographs outdoors at night, either during or between class sessions. Parents should ensure that students are in a safe, supervised environment when photographing in the dark, especially in areas with limited lighting or unfamiliar terrain.
Pre-Requisites
Having some knowledge of manual mode settings is useful in this course but not required.
Supply List
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera - A camera that lets learners select the shutter speed is required for this course. Tripod For light painting - a flashlight or some kind of handheld light source.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined April, 2020
4.9
485reviews
Star Educator
Teacher expertise and credentials
1 teacher has a teaching certificate
Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
1 teacher has a Graduate degree
Master's Degree in Education from Western Governors University
1 teacher has a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in Education from University of Phoenix
Meet Your Instructors – Professional Photographers & Educators
At Next Level Photo Education, all of our teachers are experienced photographers who bring real-world expertise to the classroom. Whether you're learning smartphone photography, creative techniques, or professional branding skills, we’re here to help!
Erika Hatfield – Certified Teacher & Portrait Photographer
📸 Certified Professional Photographer (PPA) & founder of Next Level Photo Education
🎓 Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, Master’s in Special Education
👩🏫 Taught over 2,000 learners worldwide
💡 Specializes in portraits, branding, and hands-on photography instruction
Jake Hatfield – Lighting & Technical Photography Expert
🔧 Former mechanic turned photographer
💡 Specializes in lighting, forced perspective, and technical troubleshooting
🚗 Experienced in car photography, studio lighting, and creative techniques
Aaron Snyder – Commercial & Portrait Photographer
🏡 Real estate, product, and portrait photography expert
🎞️ Skilled in photo editing, retouching, and visual storytelling
📷 Over 20 years of experience in commercial photography
Miguel Pereda – Product Photographer & Videographer
🎥 Professional photographer & filmmaker
📦 Specializes in product photography, branding, and content creation
📸 Experienced in event photography and directing commercial shoots
With diverse backgrounds and specialties, our team is ready to support learners of all skill levels on their photography journey! 🚀Reviews
Live Group Class
$75
for 3 classes3x per week, 1 week
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
1-6 learners per class
