Welcome to Central Texas Astro Photo, where your journey into astrophotography creates opportunities for young minds to explore the cosmos. Learn to photograph galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters under some of Central Texas's darkest skies—while equipping local schools with the tools to inspire future astronomers.
Program Overview
Small Classes. Big Impact.
Experience personalized astrophotography instruction in intimate 2-student classes at premium dark sky locations throughout Central Texas. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, our hands-on approach gets you capturing stunning images of the night sky in just one session.
What Sets Us Apart:
Maximum 2 students per class for personalized attention
State-of-the-art Dwarflab Dwarf3 Smart Scopes provided
Bring your own equipment! We support all gear types
Over 25 years of photography experience meets astronomy education
Dark sky locations with minimal light pollution
Ongoing support through dedicated WhatsApp community and easy-to-understand astronomy app
Exclusive discount on Dwarflab smart telescopes
Investment: $150 per student | 2-hour session
Your Photo Session
From Stargazer to Astrophotographer in One Night
Your 2-Hour Journey:
Sky Tour - We'll explore the night sky together, identifying constellations and locating tonight's photographic targets.
Equipment Mastery - Learn the ins and outs of the Dwarf3 Smart Scope or get expert guidance on your own equipment.
Capture & Create - Hands-on instruction as you photograph galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and more.
Take It Home - Download and process your images to share with friends and family.
Stay Connected - Join our WhatsApp community for ongoing support including an easy-to-use astronomy app, tips, and inspiration.
Gear up - Get your own Dwarflab Smart Telescope with an exclusive discount, or get advice on acquiring the right equipment for your needs.
You'll leave with a better understanding of the night sky and actual astrophotography you captured yourself—no experience necessary!
You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you are contributing to putting scopes in schools…
Your Impact
Every Student Teaches 100 More
Here's what makes Central Texas Astro Photo different: 50% of every class fee goes directly to purchasing telescopes for Central Texas elementary, middle and high schools.
When you invest $150 in your astrophotography education, $75 goes toward equipping a local school with a Dwarflab Dwarf3 Smart Scope—complete with solar filters so students can explore both day and night astronomy. The school will also receive free education and guidance on utilizing the smart scope. As an option, your name will be officially associated with a telescope donation.
The Ripple Effect:
Your class → Equipment for hundreds of students
Teachers gain tools to inspire STEM learning
Students discover the universe in their own schoolyard
The next generation of astronomers and scientists begins here
Areas We Serve
Central Texas Astro Photo has secured dark sky sites across Lampasas and Williamson Counties. Classes conducted in these counties will have 50% of those funds dedicated to telescope donations for schools in those respective counties. Please let Phil know your county preference, and he will work with you to set up a local session at one of his dark sky sites.
For interested in parties in other nearby counties, please still reach out to Phil for more information!
Ready to Capture the Cosmos and Make a Difference?
Book your session with Phil today and start your astrophotography journey while supporting STEM education in Central Texas schools.
