There is something special about photographing the night sky. The stars, landscapes and changing light create endless opportunities to capture a different side of Pembrokeshire after dark. At Twr y Felin Hotel, this feels particularly fitting. As Wales’ first contemporary art hotel, our collection includes more than 300 works by over 40 artists, many inspired by the landscape, coastline and natural world around St Davids. Look a little closer at the night sky and you may find some inspiration of your own.
Why St Davids is perfect for astrophotography
The St Davids Peninsula is surrounded by open countryside, coastline and relatively low levels of artificial light, creating excellent conditions for photographing the stars.
Away from the brighter lights of towns and cities, the night sky can reveal far more detail. On a clear evening, you may be able to capture constellations, planets and the Milky Way, with the Pembrokeshire landscape providing a dramatic foreground.
The changing seasons also bring different opportunities for photography, with different constellations and celestial events appearing throughout the year.
Getting started with astrophotography
You don’t need an extensive collection of equipment to start experimenting with astrophotography. A camera with manual controls, a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod are a good starting point.
Choose a clear night with as little moonlight as possible and find a spot away from artificial light. Set your camera to manual focus and focus on a bright star or distant light. A wide aperture and slower shutter speed will allow more light into the camera, while keeping your ISO high enough to capture the stars without introducing too much noise.
Take a few test shots and adjust your settings as you go. A little patience is often just as important as the equipment.
And don’t forget to look beyond the sky itself. Including part of the landscape in your composition can give your images a real sense of place.
Where to photograph around St Davids
For something simple, try photographing from your bedroom window. Depending on your room and the conditions, you can frame the night sky with the surrounding landscape and create a photograph that feels distinctly St Davids.
For a different perspective, make your way towards Porthclais and the surrounding coastline, where the darker skies and rugged landscape provide plenty of opportunities for dramatic foregrounds.
Or head into St Davids itself and photograph around the Cathedral, using the historic architecture as part of your composition. The contrast between the ancient cathedral and the night sky can make for a striking image.
Capture the Night Sky
Stay at Twr y Felin and discover new inspiration beneath the stars, from the hotel grounds to the wider St Davids Peninsula.
