About Us
AstroBackyard is a husband-and-wife team, Trevor Jones and Ashley Northcotte based in Ontario, Canada.
Like you, I was Interested in the Hobby of Astrophotography…
In 2010, I started my journey with beginner-level equipment and took to the internet to find answers on how to use it.
The problem was, most of the information and advice online was overcomplicated and technical, which left me feeling frustrated, discouraged, and even more confused.
Since then, I have been sharing my journey, experience, and knowledge with other people interested in astrophotography.
As a result, AstroBackyard has become the ultimate resource for astrophotography information for beginners. It exists to share tutorials, reviews, and experienced-based information so you can advance your skills in the hobby of astrophotography.
Make no mistake, astrophotography can be quite challenging and, at times, downright frustrating. Technical issues, software updates, and less-than-expected results can be enough to sour all but the most devoted photographers.
But, if the desire is strong enough, and you can weather the storm, the results are more rewarding than you could have ever imagined.
Enjoy the journey!
Trevor Jones | Founder, AstroBackyard
15
Years Experience
500+
Articles + Webpages
300+
YouTube Videos
470K+
YouTube Subscribers
Our Mission
Simplifying Astrophotography
We’re dedicated to helping beginner astrophotographers learn and thrive by offering valuable, experience-driven content that inspires you to capture your own stunning images of the cosmos. Learn from someone who’s been in your shoes and has overcome the challenges, so you can confidently embark on your own astrophotography journey.
Our Core Values
INSPIRATION
We ignite curiosity and wonder by revealing the breathtaking beauty of the universe. Through our storytelling, we not only capture our own adventures, but infuse a sense of excitement and joy, making astrophotography an accessible and exhilarating experience for all.
EDUCATION
We are committed to sharing the knowledge we’ve gained through years of hands-on experience in astrophotography. Our goal is to provide engaging, insightful content that simplifies complex concepts, making astrophotography approachable for beginners.
EMPOWERMENT
We empower you to make informed decisions on your astrophotography journey by sharing our real-world experiences. Whether you’re choosing your first telescope or upgrading your camera, we provide the information needed for you to navigate your own path.
Education: Sheridan College, Art Fundamentals, and Mohawk College, Diploma of Graphic Design
Meet Trevor
Founder & Creative leader
Trevor Jones has been photographing the night sky for over a decade and dedicates his expertise to helping beginners learn about astrophotography. As full-time video creator and content writer, he develops new content 7-days a week.
Trevor does most of his deep-sky imaging from his light-polluted backyard just outside the city, which is the setting for most of the videos found on the popular AstroBackyard YouTube channel. As a self-taught astrophotographer, his down-to-earth approach is favoured by many for learning the complicated processes involved with astrophotography.
Trevor’s work has been published in SkyNews Magazine, Astronomy Magazine, and popular books like Photographing the Night Sky by Alyn Wallace, and The Backyard Astronomer’s Guide by Terence Dickinson/Alan Dyer. Trevor has also received the coveted NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) for his image of the Tadpoles of IC 410. AstroBackyard has also been featured on Yahoo Finance, B&H Photo, Global/CTV News, CBC National News, and local radio.
Trevor is an active member within the astronomy community; contributing as a public speaker, podcast guest, photography contest judge, astronomy club member, and course instructor.
Trevor is an avid runner, nature photographer, and lover of the outdoors who enjoys nothing more than a camping trip under the stars with the two loves of his life.
Meet Ashley
Content developer & educator
Ashley Northcotte can be found behind the camera; filming, writing, and editing content, while also keeping business operations running smoothly. She joins the team after many years working in environmental education, strategic communications, content creation, and public outreach.
As a new astrophotographer, Ashley uses her beginner insights to create impactful content featured on AstroBackyard to help drive their mission forward. Her images have also been featured on the BBC Earth social media.
She is active an active member of the dark-sky movement as a DarkSky International Advocate and Delegate. She educates about the importance of preserving darkness for all living things on Earth as a public speaker and podcast guest. Ashley also leads the group DarkSky Camping, and is a member of her local RASC astronomy club.
One of her favourite things is camping in her teardrop trailer, usually at dark sky sites or star parties. She also enjoys unwinding with a mystery novel and going for a run.
Education: Bachelor of Arts Geography, Bachelor of Education, and Post-Graduate Certificate in GIS
Partnerships + Collaborations
AstroBackyard has collaborated with numerous global brands and manufacturers, using gifted products to review and showcase top-tier equipment to the astrophotography community. Partnerships include industry leaders like Canon, ZWO, William Optics, Sky-Watcher, Celestron, SkyShed Pod, and Software Bisque.
Additionally, they’ve created paid and sponsored content for other well-known brands outside the astrophotography industry, such as ASUS, Skillshare, Canva, Anker, Acer, and Cuts Clothing.
If you’re interested in partnering with us, feel free to reach out.
Testimonials
The Impact
Helping astrophotographers from around the world.
North America
“I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for your videos and website. It has gotten me back out behind the camera! I’ve always been in awe of the night sky but to be able to photograph a deep-sky object; well you know; is awesome! I’m sure you have heard it before but your contented has truly inspired! Last night I processed my second attempt at the Orion nebula. It’s terrible; and it’s so awesome! Thank for your content and your photos“
Mike Moseley
Kentucky, USA
Europe
“Just a quick note to thank you for providing the most valuable online resource in amateur astronomy I have come across. I am a slightly older dude (Cough! Ahem!) who has had a passionate interest in the subject since I was a kid. I find my time freeing up a little and have begun to get into it all over again. Where to look for a no-nonsense, helpful guide from someone who has trod the path before us – AstroBackyard is the answer! ”
Ian Parker
Cheltenham, England
Australia
“I have just started my astro photography journey, and wanted to let you know how much I love your content and how much you inspire me, and how you make me remember why I even started looking into this hobby. You often say its not about the photo, its about the story behind it. I love this so much.Thanks so much for your time and effort in helping me learn so much in this amazing hobby. You are one of my favourite people”
Daniel Viellaris
Kiama, Australia