For some photographers, astrophotography begins with a fascination for cameras. For Andrew Murrell from Camera House Erina, it began much earlier, with a telescope and a glimpse of Saturn.
From childhood wonder to capturing distant galaxies, Andrew's story is one of curiosity, patience, and a lifelong passion for understanding the universe around us.
A Spark Ignited by Saturn
Andrew's fascination with astronomy started at just eight years old after looking through a telescope and seeing Saturn for the very first time.
"I became interested in astronomy at age eight after I saw Saturn through a telescope," he recalls. "I started using my first camera at age 13, and it was inevitable that I would eventually point it at the stars."
His first astrophotography image was a 40-minute star trail captured in New South Wales' Warrumbungle National Park. Before long, Andrew discovered he could mount his camera directly onto a telescope, allowing him to track the night sky and photograph celestial wonders such as the Milky Way and even Halley's Comet.
More Than Just a Photograph
For Andrew, astrophotography is about much more than creating beautiful images.
"The night sky has fascinated me since I was a young kid," he says. "Knowing what I'm looking at from a scientific perspective intrigues me."
From understanding how stars shine to contemplating the expansion of the universe, every image tells a deeper story. He is captivated by the knowledge that every large galaxy likely contains a supermassive black hole and by the enduring question humanity has always asked: Is anyone or anything looking back?
"It's the combination of science, mystery, and beauty that keeps drawing me back."
The Challenge of Mastering the Process
While many beginners struggle to identify stars, constellations, and deep-sky objects, Andrew's decades-long interest in astronomy gives him a natural advantage.
"Knowing when the Milky Way rises, where objects are located, and how the sky moves has become second nature."
Instead, his greatest challenge has been mastering the complexities of image processing.
"Capturing the image is only half the battle. Learning all the tricks and techniques involved in post-processing has been one of the biggest learning curves."
The Humbling Scale of the Universe
One of the greatest rewards Andrew has discovered through astrophotography is the perspective it offers.
"Astronomy gives you a true sense of perspective," he explains.
Standing beneath a dark sky and looking up at billions of stars can be a humbling experience. But it's when Andrew considers the immense distances involved that the scale of the universe truly sinks in.
"The light from some stars takes decades to reach us. Some of the galaxies we photograph are millions of light-years away and contain billions of stars. It makes you realise that we're all just a very small part of an ever-expanding universe."
Andrew's Astrophotography Kit
Like many experienced astrophotographers, Andrew has built several different setups over the years. One of his current favourites combines portability with impressive performance.
His go-to setup includes:
- Samyang 135mm f/2 Lens.
- Nikon Z6 II.
- Star Adventurer GTi Mount.
- Celestron Red Torch.
The combination allows him to capture wide-field views of the Milky Way along with neighbouring galaxies such as the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds.
No astrophotography session would be complete without a Thermos of tea and, of course, a packet of Tim Tams.
"You haven't lived until you've done a Tim Tam Slam at 2am while looking up at the Milky Way."
The Ultimate Astrophotography Wish List
Andrew's dream setup would include some of the best astrophotography and astronomy gear available.
Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100 HD Computerised Telescope
The centrepiece of his dream setup, this powerful 11-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope offers the focal length and light-gathering ability needed to capture incredible detail in galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae.
OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Kit
Designed specifically with astrophotographers in mind, this astro-modified camera offers enhanced sensitivity to deep-red wavelengths, helping reveal stunning colours in nebulae and other deep-sky objects.
Leofoto LS-324C Ranger Carbon Fibre Tripod with LH-40PCL Ball Head
For nightscape photography, stability is everything. Andrew rates this carbon fibre tripod among the best available for serious photographers.
Celestron StarSense Explorer 10" Dobsonian Telescope
When it's time to simply enjoy the night sky visually, Andrew would choose a large Dobsonian telescope.
"The Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, star clusters, galaxies, and nebulae all come alive through a telescope like this."
Celestron Regal ED 8x42 Binoculars
Andrew believes a quality pair of binoculars is one of the most underrated astronomy tools available.
"I've spent time sweeping across the Milky Way with these binoculars, and the views were nothing short of impressive. Sharp, clear, and full of detail."
Bucket-List Destinations
Even after decades of photographing the night sky, Andrew still has dream images waiting to be captured.
One of his most desired projects is a wide-field image of the entire constellation Orion, showcasing the famous Orion Nebula along with the vast clouds of dust and gas surrounding it.
As for location?
His dream destination is Mexican Hat, Utah.
"I'd love to capture the Milky Way rising behind the Goosenecks. It's one of those iconic landscapes that perfectly complements the night sky."
Advice for New Astrophotographers
For anyone looking to take their first steps into astrophotography, Andrew's advice is simple:
"Take your time. Patience is essential."
He recommends starting with basic nightscapes using a stationary tripod before progressing to a star tracker for longer exposures. Once those skills are mastered, photographers can experiment with image stacking and eventually move into telescope-based astrophotography.
He also encourages newcomers to connect with others who share their passion.
"Join an astronomy club, follow astrophotography communities online, and learn from others. But above all else, get out under the stars. It's one of the best ways to relax and reconnect with the world around you."
Featured Astrophotographer
Photographer: Andrew Murrell
Also Known As: Andrew Murrell Photography
Store Location: Erina Camera House
All images featured in this blog were captured by Andrew Murrell
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