With each footstep on the sandy path my excitement grew. It’s quite a challenge finding new areas to not only photograph the Milky Way in New Jersey, but also finding a composition that works. I was ready this time. I had scouted out the area during the day and made sure there was a path to the spot that wasn’t flooded out. Mother nature had decided to play along as well with no clouds.
I spotted a large beaver den that day so I was also expecting a few sudden and large water-slapping warnings. As I walked along the edge of the old bog I was greeted with just that. It even kept company with me with some random check-ups the entire time. It was a bit difficult spotting it since there was steam rising about 2-3 feet up from the water, swirling and dancing on the surface. An owl made a call way off in the distance and this one was different then the Screech and Horned Owls I’ve heard, possibly from a Long Eared owl.
The Milky Way rose over the horizon, and the temperature kept dropping. I always expect the temperature to drop, but I’m continuously amazed at how much. When I left around 2AM it was 37, which seemed low for it being mid May! The steam rising from the bog grew in certain areas, as seen off in the distance. With the slightest shifts of wind, the moisture would gather on my tripod and camera so constant lens checked were needed. On my way out the boggy steam whipped way over my head, easily 20 feet up. I was glad to get back to my car and warm up.
Just 200 feet further back is another Piney Bog Island. With the air being so still, I was able to capture a portion of the Milky Way in the water. I really do love that I can drive for about 45 minutes and create night scenes like this.
As always, your photos are spectacular. These are especially dreamy. Well done again Jason!
A lot of work and time go into these shots, so I really appreciate the kind words!