Speaker Session 11:00am
Roger Groom
Astrophotography
Join Perth astrophotographer Roger Groom for an inspiring look at photographing the southern night sky. From the Milky Way and nightscapes to planets and deep-sky objects, Roger will share practical techniques, equipment tips, and insights into how modern smart telescopes compare with traditional DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Suitable for photographers of all experience levels.
Join Perth astrophotographer and astronomy educator Roger Groom for an inspiring and practical look at photographing the southern night sky.
Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in astronomy and imaging, Roger will explore the techniques, equipment, and creative approaches used to capture everything from wide-field Milky Way landscapes and nightscapes through to the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects.
Astrophotography has changed dramatically in recent years, with the emergence of smart telescopes alongside traditional DSLR and mirrorless camera systems. Roger will compare the strengths of these different approaches, helping photographers understand what can be achieved with the gear they already own, where specialist equipment can help, and how to choose the path that best suits their interests.
Through real-world examples and practical advice, attendees will gain insights into planning, capturing, and processing astrophotography images.
Whether you’re completely new to astrophotography or looking to take your existing skills further, this session will provide inspiration, practical guidance, and a fresh perspective on photographing the universe above us.
Biography
Roger Groom is a Western Australian astrophotographer, landscape and nature photographer, and astronomy educator whose passion for imaging and astronomy spans more than 25 years. Combining technical precision with creative vision, Roger has built a reputation for capturing the beauty of both the night sky and the natural world.
His journey into photography and astronomy began in the late 1990s with a Pentax SP1000 film camera and a 114mm Newtonian telescope. Since then, he has continually expanded his experience, equipment, and knowledge, developing expertise across a wide range of astrophotography disciplines including nightscapes, Milky Way photography, planetary imaging, and deep-sky imaging. By day, Roger works as a cybersecurity professional, bringing a strong technical and problem-solving mindset to his photographic and astronomical pursuits.
Between 1999 and 2005, Roger operated a successful photography stall at the Kalamunda Markets, selling landscape, nature, macro, and astrophotography prints and products. Today, he continues to produce fine art photography while sharing his knowledge through workshops, presentations, and public outreach activities.