I am …
Benjamin Barakat, an astrophotographer devoted to capturing the unseen beauty of the night sky. My work has been featured in Forbes, National Geographic, CNN, and BBC, and I’ve been honored as Milky Way Photographer of the Year for five consecutive years.
By day, I raise my three daughters; by night, I chase the stars. Through my workshops and guided tours, I invite others to see the world differently—to uncover the hidden wonders that have always been there, waiting in the dark.
Beyond photography, I research light pollution at Switzerland’s Sphinx Observatory (3571 m), exploring its impact on our planet and our perception of the universe.
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Photography Tours
How do I book a tour with you?
Booking a tour with me is easy! Just reach out directly via email or phone to reserve your spot. I’ll guide you through the process and provide all the details. A deposit is required to secure your place, with the remaining balance due 90 days prior before the tour starts. Deposits are normally sent via bank transfer but other methods are avaible too
What camera gear do I need for the tour?
To get the most out of the tour, I recommend bringing a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings, a sturdy tripod, and a wide-angle lens with an aperture of f/2.8 or faster. I suggest bringing extra batteries too, since we’ll be shooting for long hours. If you don’t have the full kit, don’t worry—reach out, and I’ll help you sort out rental options.
Do I need astrophotography experience to join?
Absolutely not! My tours are open to all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been photographing the night sky for years, I’ll tailor the instruction to your experience level. I’ll make sure you’re comfortable and learning at your own pace.
What kind of locations do we visit?
I handpick locations that offer stunning views and minimal light pollution, so you get the best conditions for astrophotography. We’ll be visiting dark sky reserves, remote wilderness areas, and iconic natural landmarks that come alive under the stars.
How many people are usually on the tours?
I keep group sizes small—usually between 6-12 participants—so I can provide plenty of personal attention to each person. Smaller groups also allow us to stay flexible and maximize our shooting opportunities.
What if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
We plan tours during times with the best chance for clear skies, but weather is unpredictable. If conditions aren’t ideal for night photography, we’ll adjust the schedule to include daytime photography sessions or landscapes, and keep our itinerary flexible to catch clear skies when possible.
Are accommodations and meals included?
For multi-day tours, accommodations are typically included, but it depends on the tour. Meals might be included on some trips, and I’ll always provide that information upfront during the booking process.
What should I wear and bring on the tour?
Make sure to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. For night shoots, especially in remote areas, it can get cold, so bring warm layers. You’ll also need sturdy footwear, a headlamp with a red light setting for working in the dark, and any personal items you may need for extended periods outdoors.
Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, transportation to and from the photography locations is included for the duration of the tour. I’ll make sure everything is arranged so that we can easily travel between the best astrophotography spots without any hassle.