September 20, 2018
This photo essay is part of an ongoing series aimed at showcasing P.E.I. stories through the eyes of local photographers. If you are a photographer interested in pitching a photo essay, please email compass@cbc.ca.
On a clear night away from city light pollution, the sky comes alive after the sun goes down.
Millions of stars and planets shine down on us offering endless curiosity and mystery of what might be out there.
In the middle of the night, we might not even be able to see five steps ahead, but a camera’s long exposure can almost feel like a flashlight revealing what awaits in front of us.
Knowing the environment in advance is important before venturing out into the dark but the rest simply becomes trial and error.
The camera can't meter in pure darkness nor can it auto focus. Image after image is made, as dials and settings are adjusted under the light of a headlamp.
Night photography is a game of chance but comes with big rewards when the LCD screen on the back of the camera shows the results of pure magic.
Stephen DesRoches
Stephen is primarily a nature and landscape photographer but also works commercially with tourism-related organizations. Born in rural P.E.I. and now living in Charlottetown, Stephen has used photography as a reason to explore and see the Island. He is the co-author of The Photographer's Guide to PEI published by Acorn Press. More images and contact details can be found at www.stephendesroches.com.