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
DAY 1
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.
DAY 2
After breakfast, the experience will conclude at the end of the morning.
Post-Workshop Online Session
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
General
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.
Cancellation Policy
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.