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ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY GROUP OF MALAYSIA
AN INTRODUCTION
Photography......involves the making of records of light and shadows.
Photography......involves a sense for the arts and aesthetics. The message varies depending on the angle of view to give it life and meaning.
Photography......applies highly scientific principles. Its presence permeates everyday life and is also at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, enlarging human vision and offering new images never seen before.
The saying,"A picture paints a thousand words" aptly describes the significant role photography plays in astronomy. The combination of astronomy and photography gives rise to the unique art and science of astrophotography. It is a perfect marriage of artistic expression, scientific principles and technical skills.
While general photography is common knowledge in Malaysia, however, the mere mention of "Astrophotography" will invariably elicit awe, imagination and expectations. Besides being able to render perfect visuals through effective cropping, an astrophotographer must be able to highlight the wealth of information lay hidden in the photos for meaningful research purposes.
While the astronomy-related industry in Malaysia, both at the public and private sectors, is at the beginner's stage and most facilities are still insufficient, it is heartening to note that there has been a marked progress in the country's amateur astronomy. During the past 10 years, there has been an increasing awareness and interest in astronomy especially among various non-governmental organizations, schools and community associations. It was during this period that a group of astrophotography enthusiasts decided to form the "Astrophotography Group of Malaysia" in April 2004 to further their interest in capturing celestial objects on photos.
The Group's mission is to serve as a platform for networking with all astrophotographers in Malaysia and to act as their collective and representative voice to provide some semblance of unity and systematic growth and thus in attracting more enthusiasts! This ambitious mission is reflected in the Group's educational effort in bringing awareness and interest to school children by the provision of teaching materials for astronomy to various schools. Students are also further motivated when original quality works of Malaysian astrophotographers are displayed for their viewing.
Furthermore, there has been more variety in the kind of activities conducted by amateur astronomers in terms of contents. This enhanced personal knowledge and confidence in the handling of astronomy and photography equipment as well as providing a home-grown venue for the exchange information without assistance from foreign expertise. Most importantly, besides serving as a medium of exchange for ideas and information among the members, by uniting under a single entity, the member, through the Group, can interact with overseas organizations in a more effective and organized manner than individually.
There are some major differences between general photography (such as landscape, portrait, products etc.) and astrophotography. Firstly, it requires an ideal and pitch-dark location. Secondly, a large dose of patience and determination. Thirdly, be specific with content requirements. Last but not least, a good understanding and knowledge of the celestial objects and the handling of the various equipment.
As in any hobby or profession - no pain, no gain. Armed with a great passion and a strong will, there will be much to be learned and gained.
April 15, 2004 might be just another day, but to members of the Group, it is an unforgettable day. It was the day when the Astrophotography Group of Malaysia was formed. Shortly after, it has already set the ball rolling by making preparations to hold a small scale exhibition of astrophotographs to announce its establishment and as a mean to reach out to all enthusiasts to join the Group in furtherance of its objectives and influence.
United, we stand. A united voice speaks louder.
email: toastrophotogroup@yahoo.com
