Astrophotography Workshop

📅September 12–13 (2 days)
📍Alentejo
👤Leader: Andreia Costa
👥Limit: 10 people

About the expedition

There are few places in Europe where the night still reveals itself in its purest form. Dark Sky Alqueva is one of those places—a place where silence, landscape, and the starry sky come together to create one of the most remarkable photographic experiences we can have.

The Under the Sky workshop was created for those who want to discover astrophotography in a practical, engaging way that is deeply connected to nature. More than just learning technique, this experience invites each participant to understand the night sky, interpret the landscape, and develop a conscious and creative approach to photographing the Milky Way.

During this experience, we will explore the entire process of astrophotography—from planning and preparation to final image editing. The training combines an introductory theoretical session, an intensive practical session in the field, and a subsequent online editing session, allowing participants to consolidate their knowledge and monitor their progress.

The approach of this workshop is based on single-frame capture, prioritizing the authenticity of the moment and teaching techniques that allow for solid results directly in the capture, with a balanced and natural editing flow.

Itinerary

Arrival at the accommodation in the afternoon and welcome reception for participants. After check-in, we will begin this experience with an introductory session where we will present the workshop objectives, the program for the experience, and the main concepts of night sky photography.

During this preparatory session, we will discuss how to plan an astrophotography session, including reading weather and astronomical conditions, using essential applications, choosing equipment, and defining the technical parameters needed to capture the Milky Way.

At the end of the afternoon, we will have time for dinner and to prepare all the photographic equipment before heading out into the field.

After sunset, we will travel to carefully selected locations, far from light pollution, where we will conduct the practical astrophotography session. During the night, participants will learn how to correctly configure the camera, work on focusing techniques in a nighttime environment, explore composition with landscape elements, and capture the Milky Way using the single frame technique.

Throughout the session, there will be individualized technical support, allowing you to adjust settings and explore creative approaches tailored to each participant.

Return to accommodation during the early hours of the morning and rest.

After breakfast, the experience will conclude at the end of the morning.

Approximately 10 to 14 days after the in-person experience, there will be an online session dedicated to astrophotography editing.

This session will explain the main steps in the editing process, including RAW file processing, noise control, color and contrast adjustments, and creative image finishing. The session will be held in a group and will be recorded for later reference.

Included Services

✅Accommodation;
✅On-site training;
✅Individualized support during the workshop;
✅Online editing session;
✅Recording of the editing session;
✅Technical support before and after the workshop;

Not Included Services

❌Transportation;
❌Meals;
❌Personal insurance;

Recommendations

• Camera with manual control (DSLR or Mirrorless);
• Sturdy tripod;
• Bright wide-angle lenses;
• Headlamp;
• Clothing suitable for cold nights

This trip is for anyone who loves photography and nature, regardless of their level of experience or the equipment they use. During the expedition, each participant will receive personalized guidance according to their photographic goals.

Your spot is guaranteed once you pay for the whole workshop. If we don't get enough people signed up, we'll give you your money back. But if you decide to cancel, we won't refund you.

Rooms will be allocated in order of registration, with priority given to same-sex sharing. If single rooms are available, they will also be allocated in this order.

The itinerary presented is indicative and may be adjusted depending on weather conditions, local guide recommendations, or unforeseen logistical issues.

Reservation

Registration is considered effective upon full payment. This amount guarantees the reservation, but is non-refundable in case of withdrawal by the participant, regardless of the reason.

Cancellation by the participant

After official confirmation of the trip (when the minimum number of participants is reached), the following conditions apply in case of cancellation by the traveler:
There will be no refund.

Participant Replacement

If the participant cancels the trip, they may designate another person to take their place, provided that the replacement occurs at least 20 days before the departure date and the new participant accepts the same agreed conditions.

Cancellation due to not reaching the minimum number of participants

The trip will only take place with a minimum of 4 participants. If this number is not reached, the organization reserves the right to cancel the expedition. In this case, the deposit and any other amounts paid will be refunded in full, without penalty.

Cancellation due to force majeure

In exceptional situations (such as changes in health conditions, safety, natural disasters, or other external causes that compromise the trip), the organization may cancel or postpone the expedition. Participants will be informed as far in advance as possible and will be entitled to a refund of the amounts paid or to reschedule for a new date.

Price
420€
Valor por pessoa em quarto duplo

Testimonials

Sandra Cirne

Kenya/Pantanal/Guatemala

I've been on three tours organised by Andreia: Kenya, Bolivia and Pantanal.

Completely different destinations with one thing in common... all the tours were incredibly well organised, from flights, stopovers, transfers, hotels, meals, guides, transport and itineraries in every destination.
From minus 20 degrees in Uyuni Salt Flats, to my first steps in astrophotography, tracking down jaguars and the BIG5 in Kenya, it was worth every second and every experience that Andreia provided us with.
An incredible companion who also passed on her love of wildlife photography to me!

Keep up the excellent work and thank you for everything!

Bárbara Pedro

Thailand

In August 2024, I had the opportunity to embark on an incredible 15-day trip to Thailand, passing through Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Phuket. Everything was meticulously organised by Andreia. From the beginning, Andreia showed exceptional care for every detail, creating an itinerary perfectly balanced between culture, adventure and moments of leisure and relaxation.

In Chiang Mai, the elephant experience was undoubtedly the highlight of the trip. We visited a sanctuary where we were able to interact with these magnificent animals in a responsible and respectful manner. The sanctuary aims to rescue and rehabilitate elephants that have suffered abuse in tourist activities.
During the entire trip, Andreia made sure that every moment was special and well organised, from the smallest things like transfers to meals, allowing us as a group to make the most of each destination without any logistical worries.

I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to experience Thailand in an authentic and responsible way, with a higher awareness of respect for animals and the local culture. The trip not only provided me with unforgettable memories, but also made me reflect on the importance of contributing to causes that help protect nature and animals.

Pedro Batalha

Thailand

Simply memorable.
And all thanks to Andreia's organization and planning of the whole trip.
Every day we had a set itinerary full of interesting places to visit. From the streets of Bangkok, the Maeklong Railway Market, the
Elephant Rescue Park in Chiang Mai and the boat trips around the Phi Phi Islands, every experience had a unique cultural value that I'm sure will remain in every member of the group's memory.

Wherever we were, people were always kind and very welcoming. The language barrier is a reality, but it was always possible to communicate perfectly. The Thai cuisine was also an excellent surprise, with delicious, authentic and very cheap food. I highly recommend the local street food areas, full of fresh fruit stands and freshly prepared grills.
Highly recommended!

Cláudia Fialho

Guatemala

The overall trip was very good. The organization was a rating 10 and the activities were on time. Despite the long journeys, the transport was in comfortable vehicles with experienced drivers. Safety was a rating of 1000!

As for the accommodation, the hotels/hostels were adequate, except for the hotel in Antigua because of the breakfast episode and because it was claustrophobic. It's worth returning to the Bucaros hotel.

Finally, I loved the experience of visiting Guatemala with you.

Ana Rita André

Morocco/Guatemala

I had the opportunity to travel to Guatemala for 9 days with Andreia and it was simply incredible! As well as being a very talented photographer, she's also an exceptional expedition leader. Everything was planned down to the last detail - I didn't have to worry about anything, just enjoy it.

The trip was a complete experience: stunning landscapes, a rich culture and unforgettable moments, always with the perfect curation of locations and opportunities to capture incredible photographs.

Everything was impeccably organised, balancing adventure, comfort and safety. I totally recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic and well-planned trip!

Rute Fonseca

Pantanal/Bolivia

I've travelled on several expeditions organised by Andreia and I can say that every trip has been unique and extraordinary, guaranteed to be some of the most unforgettable I've ever been on. Andreia thinks of every detail to provide incredible experiences and make every moment memorable. Her commitment and passion for travelling is remarkable.

Everything is organised in an impeccable way which has allowed us to make the most of it without any worries. Her guidance is very close throughout the trip and she is always willing to share her vast knowledge of photography and help with any questions we may have. I can assure you that she is spectacular company.

There's no doubt that I'll be taking part in Andreia's expeditions again, and I couldn't recommend her more highly!

Bruno Santos

Morocco/Guatemala

I’ve had the privilege of traveling with Andreia Costa on two unforgettable experiences.
She organizes everything with such care that you don’t have to worry about anything - you can just enjoy yourself.

The first trip was to Morocco, where we explored the Sahara desert. The organization was impeccable, from transportation to accommodations, which allowed us to witness the desert in a authentic and stress free way. The night we slept under the stars is something I’ll never forget about.

In Guatemala we visited Lake Atitlan and Antigua, but the highlight was climbing the Acatenango Volcano, where we spent the night at an altitude of 3.800 meters, with a fantastic view at dawn. We also had the chance to explore Tikal at dawn while looking for jaguars, and managed to photograph the Milky Way in the jungle - a magical moment.
Andreia was an exceptional guide on both trips, always attentive to detail, making sure everything ran smoothly and that everybody felt safe. If you’re looking for a well-organized trip full of authentic culture, she’s the right choice.

Beatriz Pedro

Thailand

Last year I went on my dream trip: I traveled to Thailand!
An absolutely unforgettable experience, with everything thought out and taken care of in detail by Andreia Costa! And all I can say is that it was incredible from start to finish.

We started our trip in Bangkok, where we immersed ourselves in the city’s energy, explored stunning temples, and still had time for some tuk tuk rides between a markets, flavors and incredible views!
Then we headed to Chiang Mai, up north, where calmness and nature were prevalent. We visited an elephant santuary, got to know the local culture more closely and experienced those kind of moments that will stay in our memories forever. One of my favorite places in Thailand!

The last stop was in Phuket, for a few days of resting. The beaches are absolutely paradise, the markets with super fresh seafood and a beautiful city, very Cuban!
Andreia always took into account our preferences, the type of trip we wanted to take and gave us suggestions that made all the difference!

If I could, I'd go back tomorrow! And I'll definitely trust Andreia again for future trips. I recommend her 100%.
Thanks for everything, Andreia 💛


Sheila Pedrosa

Kenya

An unforgettable experience..Every day exceeded expectations..
Everything organized everything impeccable.. the guides 10 stars.. the parks and local hotels enrich the whole trip..
A mixture of cultures, fotography and images.. Living for 10 days in the grandiosity of nature.. This nature that expresses itself in its own language.. And with photographers that capture every moment in images!!!
The group 10 stars
I highly recommend travelling with photographers, particularly with Andreia..
I couldn’t be more satisfied more pleased more happy more grown up more enriched more everything
Thank you Andreia Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Helena Pedrosa

Kenya

I don't believe my vocabulary could ever allow me to trully describe what these 10 days full of life, nature, happyness, humor and good living meant/felt like to me. Everything was organized to the smallest detail since the very beginning, immediate availability to attend to any doubts, questions or fears one could have even before we met at the airport. I am sure I'll forever keep with me the memories from this trip, and not just through the countless pics and videos of high quality that the amazing photographers that joined us, blessed us with. I loved all of it, the safaris with splendorous views, the inumerous animals from all species, shapes and colours, this group full of beautiful people, the +5 stars guides. I can only express my imense gratitude for this oportunity and fresh air, am leaving with a full happy heart.
Thank you so so much Andreia! I'm ready for the next trips you plan.

Teresa Fonseca

Kenya

This was a fantastic trip! A new experience for me, a challenge from my daughter, which greatly exceeded all my expectations and left me wanting to do it all over again. I had never been on a safari before, I was very curious and I became a fan. Andreia Costa did a spectacular job, with thorough support and everything very well organized. Nothing was missed! A very cheerful and united group. Thank you all!

Congratulations, Andreia!

Carlos Fonseca

Kenya

This trip to a safari in Kenya exceeded my expectations. I really enjoyed the group, which was spectacular. Seeing the animals in the wild is something else, and it was great that we saw the ones that are hardest to find, the big five, right away, it seemed like they knew they were being photographed by good photographers, Andreia Costa and colleagues. The guides were spectacular. My first balloon ride baptism was unforgettable.
We will try to go on the next safaris you organize, Andreia. Thank you.

Carla Cameira

Kenya

I would like to express my huge gratitude for these 10 wonderful days we spent together. It was an unforgettable vacation, where everything went so well. Andreia Costa's organization was simply spectacular and helped everything run smoothly.

The group that was established was something very special.
I loved every moment, every shared experience, every laugh.

Paulo Cabral

Kenya/Spain

I can only thank you for organizing this trip, for the coincidence of seeing it advertised on Instagram, for thinking that who better to show me what a safari in Africa is like than a professional photographer with experience in photographing nature and wildlife like you do like no other.

Everything was excellent: your organization, the places we stayed, the guides you chose were very good and unbeatable at finding the animals and stopping the jeeps in the best spots for us to photograph them. The entire trip program was well thought out, both from a cultural point of view, with visits to local tribes, and from an animal life point of view, visiting parks where we saw and photographed the Big 5 and many more animals in the wild in their natural habitat (and lots of birds too😁😅). I would like to highlight the visit to the sanctuary of the endangered Northern White Rhinos.

I also want to express my gratitude for the luck I had of the wonderful group that went on this adventure, a bunch of extraordinary, fun, friendly people, always in a good mood and concerned with the flow and well-being of the group 🙂👍🏻.

I enjoyed it so much that, as you know, I have already signed up to go with you on your next photography trips.

Bernardo Queiróz

Kenya

I haven’t been on a Safari for 20 years, I came eager to find as many animals as possible and improve my skills as a photographer. Andreia Costa from Capture Atlas, left no detail to chance, being relentless, going into detail, ensuring everyone’s well-being and individual will, all with a calm and simplicity that make us feel at home and with family. Not only did I see more animals than I had imagined, but I was able to see them outside of the confusion of the crowded parks, with all the support and security.
Without a doubt an experience to repeat


Rui Flores

Spain

An absolutely unforgettable experience!

Participating in the Iberian Lynx expedition with Andreia was an exciting and enriching experience. From the very beginning, everything was meticulously organized: transportation, accommodation, and observation sessions in strategically positioned hides.

Andreia is an exceptional leader—attentive, experienced, and passionate about wildlife photography. Her constant presence and support made all the difference. Each hide session was a lesson in patience, where silence turned into adrenaline with every movement in the vegetation.

The group was small, which created an intimate and collaborative environment. The exchange of experiences among the participants made this expedition not only a photographic opportunity, but also a true immersion in the “ecosystem” of photography.

I highly recommend it to all lovers of wildlife (and adventure) and photography. Thank you, Andreia, for providing moments that will stay with me forever! This was just the first of many...

Miguel Gonçalves

Spain

I had the opportunity to go with Capture Atlas on an expedition to Spain to try to witness and photograph the rare Iberian lynx.
I can say that it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. Andreia was very friendly, caring, and patient. She answered everything without any problems and with great readiness.
We stayed in a house with all the amenities and very close to the hides, which saved us energy and time for a day of observation.
To top off the wonderful experience, the lynxes did us the favor of coming to say hello twice.
I have only good things to say and am grateful for this incredible experience.
I have already signed up for next year!

Gonçalo Garcia

Spain

I always try to go without expectations when it comes to wildlife because it doesn't depend solely on us, but I had a very positive feeling about this expedition, and that's how it turned out.
I met new people who shared my interests, learned a lot about photography and animals and their habits, and came away with some great memories (photos/videos) of one of the most epic felines in the world.
An experience to be repeated.

João Almeida

Spain

It was my first experience of this kind and, honestly, I didn't really know what to expect, but it ended up exceeding my expectations. Andreia is an excellent professional, dedicated and genuinely concerned with providing the best possible experience for those who participated in this trip.

Being able to spend three days in the heart of Spain, in a shelter, and having the opportunity to document one of the rarest felines in the world was simply fantastic. All the logistics, the atmosphere, and the attention made the experience memorable from start to finish.

I will definitely repeat this adventure with Andreia and would love to explore other locations with her in the future. I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to connect more closely with nature and wildlife in an authentic and responsible way.


Photographs protected by copyright. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited.