A little bit about me...
Hailing from New Zealand’s stunning West Coast of the South Island, I am a proud mother to my young daughters and the owner-operator of Riverstone House. In addition to managing my accommodation business, I am an astrophotographer, tutor, and guide.
My obsession for astronomy began in childhood, while my interest in photography developed later in life. In 2016, I encountered amazing landscape astrophotography on social media, created by some of New Zealand's leading astrophotographers of the time. This experience ignited my determination to become a skilled astrophotographer myself.
As a predominantly self-taught artist, I dedicated my limited free time to mastering camera functions and various field techniques, including image stacking, long exposures, and multi-row panoramas. I spent countless hours beneath the stars, often facing challenges and setbacks, followed by extensive hours of post-processing. When I encountered road blocks in my learning, I enrolled in a workshop which significantly advanced my skills. With newfound expertise, I learned to expertly stitch, blend, mask, and edit my images, striving to produce the exceptional results I admired.
Astro is not for the faint-hearted; it demands dedication, passion, and patience. My journey has been particularly challenging while raising my daughters and managing my business. However, determination and perseverance are essential when pursuing a passion as profound as astrophotography.
The bright and bold images I am known for have been featured both nationally and internationally in various publications and exhibitions including Milky Way Photographer of the Year 2022 and 2024, as well as recognition in The Epson International Pano Awards Top 50.
I am also proud to serve as an ambassador for Sky Watcher Australia.
Conducting photography workshops and private tours throughout the South Island, I am so happy and grateful to share my knowledge and enthusiasm with like-minded individuals.
I am committed to capturing the celestial wonders of our night sky with clarity and depth, aiming to inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity in all who view my work or choose to invest in their photography and join me on an unforgettable adventure under the stars.
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-Rachel