The weather is warming up, the skies are clearing, and we point our eyes and cameras to the sky. But capturing the night sky well requires more than just snapping a photo of the heavens. Mike Shaw, author of the new book The Beginner’s Guide to Astrophotography, joins us to talk about what gear you need—yes, you can do it with a smartphone!—and how to make stunning star photos. Guest: Mike Shaw, Instagram Hosts: Jeff Carlson: website, Jeff's photos, Jeff on Instagram, Jeff on Glass, Jeff on Mastodon Kirk McElhearn: website, Kirk's photos, Kirk on Instagram, Kirk on Glass, Kirk on Mastodon Show Notes: (View show notes with images at PhotoActive.co) Rate and Review the PhotoActive Podcast! The Beginner's Guide to Astrophotography, by Mike Shaw. Use code SHAW10 when buying from Rocky Nook to get 10% off. International Dark Sky Association [The World At Night (TWAN)](twanight.com) Planit Pro app Our Snapshots: Jeff: Skylight Forecast Kirk: That Stunning ‘Succession’ Emotional Set Piece Was Shot as a Single 27-Minute Take Subscribe to the PhotoActive podcast newsletter at the bottom of any page at the PhotoActive web site to be notified of new episodes and be eligible for occasional giveaways. If you’ve already subscribed, you’re automatically entered. If you like the show, please subscribe in iTunes/Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast app, and please rate the podcast. And don't forget to join the PhotoActive Facebook group to discuss the podcast, share your photos, and more. Disclosure: Sometimes we use affiliate links for products, in which we receive small commissions to help support PhotoActive.