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My attempt at a Milky Way shot turned into a bug documentary
I drove out to Joshua Tree last month with my new star tracker, all set to get a clean 30-second exposure of the galactic core. I set everything up on a picnic table, hit the shutter, and went to sit in my car. When I checked the camera an hour later, every single frame was covered in these tiny white streaks. Turns out a swarm of gnats found the red light on my headlamp irresistible and flew right through every shot. I learned that sometimes the local wildlife is more interested in your gear than the stars. Anyone have a good bug spray recommendation that won't mess with the camera sensors?
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wesley1811mo ago
Used to think those red headlamps were the perfect solution. Had a similar thing happen with moths in the desert near Tucson, completely wrecked a time-lapse. Now I just sit in the dark away from the gear and use a dim green light if I absolutely have to. Bug spray won't help, they're drawn to the light itself.
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hannahsingh1mo ago
Ever try those green lights @annaw73 mentioned? I had a whole swarm ruin a shot in Texas, now I just sit in total darkness too.
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