By: Mark Erskine, WNPF Marketing and Communication Advisory Committee Volunteer
Imagine a world of dreamlike stars that most of us rarely see. They’re always there, but they only reveal themselves at night, and only on the clearest of nights. When we stand close to Mount Rainier, it makes us feel small. But wait until you witness the mountain against the backdrop of our celestial neighbors—the Milky Way. It’s a humbling experience you’ll never forget, a moment so magnificent you’ll want to capture it with your camera. However, like all great moments, this photographic endeavor requires some preparation.
While it’s possible to capture this scene with a cell phone camera, it won’t match the depth and clarity of a DSLR. So dust off that bigger camera and tripod that has been languishing in your closet. Let’s explore the essential ingredients for this great adventure:
Capture the magic, and may your photos of Mount Rainier under the Milky Way become cherished memories.
DSLR: While it doesn’t need to be the latest or most expensive model, choose a DSLR that allows you to switch off automatic settings and work in manual mode. There are only three important settings: (test these by taking test shots that same night) Again, the Photopills app can help you set these settings for you.
The time lapse sequence shown above is a bit trickier in that it is a sequence of hundreds of single photos edited together. This requires an editing program such as Photoshop, and thus, the skill level is a bit higher, but there are many YouTube videos that cover the subject.
If you’ve never experienced the nightlife at Mount Rainier, you haven’t truly experienced the mountain. Not only is the sky alive with lights…. The trail is alive with climbers on their ascents and descents from the mountain. The one’s coming down are brimming with stories to tell, and they’re not shy to share. The climbers going up, are nervously quiet, holding in their excited nerves. Your cameras will also capture headlights of climbers making their way up the summit.
Of course you don’t need to take a photo to enjoy this amazing experience. Your mind’s eye can capture the experience, aided by a guide from the Night Sky program, a project supported by Washington’s National Park Fund, to teach and share an appreciation of our dark night skies. These expert guides can not only guide you to the best viewing locations, but also let you know the names of constellations, and where to look for planets!
And don’t forget to bring hot chocolate—essential for sharing stories with fellow photographers under the starry skies of Mount Rainier!
If you haven’t yet witnessed the enchanting nocturnal allure of Mt. Rainier, prepare for a delightful experience. Whether capturing it through your camera lens or etching it into your mind’s eye, the mountain’s beauty is indelible. As you revel in its splendor, cherish the responsibility to leave it as pristine and untouched as when you first arrived.
Washington’s National Park Fund is the official philanthropic partner to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. We raise private support to preserve and protect Washington’s national parks by funding scientific research, youth and family experiences, and projects that will keep these parks strong and vital now and forever, for everyone.
Cover photo by Mark Erskine