Astrophotography Talk with refreshments: Capturing the Magic of the Night Sky - Rye Harbour (12/04/25)

‘There is a magic that happens when night falls.’

Start your astrophotography journey with us. Learn how to capture the magic of the night sky at this talk, aimed at beginners, from self-taught Kent photographer, Derek Griffin @fromtheoast.

Derek has a lifelong passion for photography, finding inspiration in the countryside and nature. He has spent the past six years researching and practising astrophotography. Now experienced in shooting the night sky, particularly the Milky Way, he is the creator of the much-admired image (above) of Rye Harbour’s red-roofed hut at night.

During this talk, Derek will share his knowledge, revealing his secrets and what he has learnt from his mistakes. He’ll concentrate on how to capture the magnificent Milky Way, and will touch on shooting deep sky objects outside our solar system, like star clusters and far-off galaxies.

Join us…

From 6pm for pre-talk refreshments (a mini grazing box) in our café, while enjoying the stunning evening views of the nature reserve.

Then, from 7pm as the sun sets, Derek will cover the basics of astrophotography in his hour-long presentation including a question & answer session. He’ll cover the first steps of how to get a night sky image on your camera, including equipment needed, planning your shots, the best places & times and useful apps.

Proceeds from this event support the work of Sussex Wildlife Trust.

On booking, please enter any dietary needs in the 'Food options' box, e.g. vegetarian, vegan, allergies, etc:

Price includes: Mini grazing box with cheese, cured meats, crackers, pickle, grapes, nuts and olives. Soft drinks available to buy.

What to bring: As this is an indoor talk, not a hands-on workshop, you won’t need to bring photography equipment. You may wish to make notes and we’ll send a resource list afterwards. By 8pm, it will be getting dark so bring a torch as the path to the Centre is unlit.

Booking essential: Scroll down for tickets, first please read our Course and Event booking and cancellation Terms & Conditions here. You don't need to be a Sussex Wildlife Trust member to buy a ticket.

Location: Rye Harbour Discovery Centre, Rye Harbour, TN31 7FW, see our website for how to find us.

Accessibility: Rye Harbour Discovery Centre is a wheelchair-friendly venue, with a step-free entrance ramp. Our toilet facilities include two that are wheelchair accessible.

Contact: If you have any queries, email us at [email protected]