Overview

These are small (max 3 photographers) workshops designed to help individuals with their individual questions and astrophotography needs. As a small group Roger will address individuals questions while also having the benefit that group collaboration brings to light shared experiences, questions and solutions.

The workshops are a fun and casual evening in the comfortable surrounds of Perth Observatory, with a dedication to results for the participants.

Group Size

These workshops are tailored to the small number of individuals in the group.

Minimum group size: 1 photographer
Maximum group size: 3 photographers

The workshop will proceed with only one booking.

Location

Located on the grounds of the Perth Observatory (337 Walnut Rd Bickley WA 6076), in the hills to the east of Perth. This is a convenient location 45 minute drive from the Perth CBD but dark enough to practice your astrophotography skills.

Ablutions available onsite. Shop with limited drinks and merchandise available at the start of the tour. BYO other supplies you may need.

Specific information regarding meeting at the observatory will be sent to participants ahead of the workshop.

Schedule

The evening will run from 6:30pm until 9:30pm.

Arrive at Perth Observatory for 6:30pm and meet at the front steps/foya
6:30-9:30pm Workshop content on the hilltop among he observatory domes from
Participants may depart at any time earlier if they wish

Content

Content will be tailored to the participants needs. Roger Groom will make contact with participants prior to the night to assess their needs and form an appropriate program of content.

Typically most sessions will focus on a combination of:

Wide-field nightscape practical how-to information
Tracker and mount use including polar alignment
Astrophotography through a participants telescope

Cloudy Scenario

A decision will be made regarding weather when the 48 hour forecast is available and this decision will be communicated to all registered participants via the email address used in booking.

It is at the discretion of Roger Groom the organiser of this event to decide if the event will proceed or be cancelled due to weather. By booking you accept this.

For small group workshops Roger ensures the best possible outcome for participants, discussing the weather conditions predicted and whether rescheduling is appropriate.

Guidelines for go/no-go based on weather:

If the forecast for cloud is 70% or less cloud cover and no rain is forecast the event will proceed. Some cloud makes for fantastic nightscape photographs and does not detract from the workshop experience.
If the forecast for cloud is above 70% cloud cover or rain is forecast with greater than 40% chance for the whole period of the event window the event will be cancelled.
If a severe weather warning is issued for the time and place of the event, the event will be cancelled.

In the case of cloud the event will be rescheduled or cancelled dependent on participant availability. Initially an attempt will be made to reschedule the event to a nearby evening which suits the most participants, availability of Perth observatory and Roger Groom. If no rescheduled evening is suitable participants can be transferred to a future event or refunds will be made.

Contact the host of Small Group Workshop - March 2026