Joe Bernatek
Award Level:
Bronze
Favourite memory of the Award:
My favourite memory of the award was the breathtaking sky on the night of the photo.
It was one of my first nights under a proper dark sky, and there's no way to perfectly encapsulate what the experience is like in words. I must have been staring up at the sky for an hour, gazing at the beauty of the stars and Milky Way above. Then, being able to capture it is something even more magical, and that'll always stay with me.
Age:
14
Biggest challenge from doing the Award:
The biggest challenge I faced was scouting out perfect locations to take photos. It can be very difficult to find that perfect spot! You need to take timing, light pollution, surrounding obstacles, weather and more into account! I spent about 2-3 weeks before the trip just planning and scouting out locations, but it paid off!
Country:
Australia
Have you continued any of your Award activities? If so, what:
Yes! I love taking photos, especially of the night sky. I find the entire process super enjoyable, and if you get a good end result, it is extremely satisfying!
I have continued to take photos and pursuing my photography ambition both in school and out.
Tell us the story behind your photo:
One of my first (and maybe best) astrophotography shots! I recently got really into photography, particularly astrophotography and space in general, and I was highly anticipating my trip to South Australia to visit the dark sky areas there for the first time to take the perfect photos. I am extremely pleased on how it turned out and what I captured!
Award Role:
Participant