About AstroBackyard

Chances are, you found this website because you’re keen on getting started in astrophotography. If you have ever witnessed an incredible image of space taken using an ordinary camera through a telescope and thought “I want to do that”, you’re not alone. You are now among the thousands of deep-sky astrophotography enthusiasts that have started a lifelong journey to capture the night sky.

I know this because I was just like you. From the purchase of my first non-computerized telescope to my latest dedicated astrophotography camera, I am forever dedicated to improving my astrophotography techniques and skills. This hobby demands that you understand which equipment you need, and how to operate it under a clear night sky.

AstroBackyard team

Trevor Jones and wife, Ashley Northcotte 

I do most of my deep-sky imaging from my light-polluted (Bortle Scale Class 6) backyard in the city. My beloved backyard is the setting for most of the videos found on the AstroBackyard YouTube Channel. The light pollution is quite heavy, so I need filters to block out as much artificial light as possible.

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. However, if the desire is strong enough, and you can weather the storm, the results are more rewarding than you could have ever imagined.

Trevor Jones

Astrophotography Tips and Resources

AstroBackyard is the ultimate resource for astrophotography tips. It exists to share resources, tutorials, reviews, and advice to fellow deep-sky astrophotography enthusiasts. By sharing my own images and experiences, others can learn from my mistakes. I received lots of help when I began my photography journey in 2011, and it’s my turn to pay it forward to the next wave of astrophotographers. I have watched the hobby grow in the short years that I have been involved.

There are more options, information, and astrophotography gear available than ever before. By creating a place where others can share images and their equipment, we can all learn from each other.

Galaxy photography

The Whirlpool Galaxy captured using my telescope in the backyard.

The story behind my website’s name is that the backyard is where I began my journey, and where I spend the most time under the stars. Traveling to locations with darker skies is a lot of fun, but unfortunately only happens a handful of times per year. My backyard is my personal window to the heavens, and it’s where I connect with the universe.

Despite the light-polluted skies, I am fortunate to have quite a wide swath of sky at my disposal. The best views are to the South, with lots of room to track objects that rise high from the East. I have two great spots to set my portable equipment in, on a concrete patio, and out in the grass. At this point, I do not own a home observatory, but it’s something I think about every day!

Update: I built a backyard observatory! (June 2021)

astrophotography image

The Crescent Nebula in Cygnus. 5.5 Hour Exposure through my telescope.

About Trevor

Trevor JonesMy name is Trevor Jones, and I have been photographing the night sky for nearly a decade.

I currently work on AstroBackyard full-time, creating new content 7-days a week. I am an avid runner, nature photographer, and general outdoor nut. I enjoy nothing more than a camping trip under the stars with the two loves of my life.

My wife Ashley is my biggest fan and supporter, and we finally tied the knot after 16 years of dating on December 1st, 2017. Our black Labrador Retriever/Hound mix, Rudolph, often makes appearances on both this website and in my YouTube videos.

As I am sure many of you know, without the support of your family, it can be difficult to pursue your passion projects, especially when they demand much of your time. I’ll be the first to admit that in this regard, I am truly blessed.

Ashley and Rudy

AstroBackyard has been incredibly well-received since it began, and I have high hopes for the future. You can count on this website to continue to provide value to beginner deep-sky astrophotography enthusiasts for years to come.

If you would like to follow my journey and see the latest astrophotography images, consider following AstroBackyard on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

I sincerely appreciate you stopping by! Clear skies.

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