Haleakala 2012 – Night Photography (Pt 4/5)

[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3] [Part 4] [Part 5]

Although we were socked in the clouds for most of the afternoon, once the sun set, the fog burned off and opened up to a open canopy of stars. Within a few hours, the moon rose in the east and lit up the landscape like it was daytime. These kinds of events make me appreciate my life so much more.

Shortly after sunset, the crew brought out the benches from our “mess hall” / dining room to create amphitheater seating for the light show panorama. Though the temperature was dropping quickly into the 40s, we were able to see the milky way and several constellations above head.

Happy with the capture, I went in to eat while we waited for the moon to rise over Mauna Hanakauhi in the distance. Later, several of us came out to watch the spectacle… while others were content in their sleeping bags inside.

Light writing was imminent… with some surprises by illustrator Jennifer Liu. As it was Baron’s birthday weekend, it was only fit she sneak in happy birthday wishes. haha, too good.

As the temperature dropped further, one by one the crew started heading inside… until I was the only one left admiring the unreal landscape.

Unlike Paliku which was socked-in/rainy all night, the Holua campsite was much more night-photography friendly. If spending prolonged time outside, make sure to bring winter clothing. On the last summer camping trip here, the temperature dropped into the upper 30s, though I’m guessing it didn’t drop below 40 degrees on this trip. Star trails work best if facing north or south, depending on what you want in your frame or foreground. It’s always useful to bring star-constellation/azimuth phone applications, as they will help with cardinal directions and moon/sun rise/set positions. It’s best to understand your camera settings for this type of photography before coming here, as prolonged standing in the cold will likely not be in your best interests. A compact, travel tripod will also be useful, but it’s up to you what you are willing to carry into the crater. With all the luxuries I was carrying, my pack easily weighed more than 50 lbs at the start of the trip… which is not for everyone, haha.

Epic GoPro Video recap of our journey, courtesy of Justin Ugalino. Watch it! You won’t regret it!!!

For more adventures of the Lost Trailblazers, either look at my other blogposts and “Adventures with the Lost Trailblazers” photo gallery. Thanks for visiting and come back again soon!

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