Four Years of Persistence
Capturing the Milky Way at Injidup Bay
In October 2020, I found myself once again at "my spot," the one place I can never drive past without stopping. Injidup Bay in Western Australia is more than just a picturesque location; it is my sanctuary, a place that brings me clarity and speaks to my soul.
That morning, as I sat there, I made a decision. I would return to this spot to photograph the Milky Way. I wanted to capture not just the scene but the profound emotions and connection I feel when I'm there. Only an astro shot, I felt, could encapsulate this deep pull.
The First Attempt
That night, full of excitement and anticipation, I returned. But nature had other plans. The weather rolled in, obscuring the stars. Instead of the celestial display I had hoped for, I managed to capture a beautiful sunset. It was a consolation, but not what I had set out to achieve.
The Annual Pilgrimage
Injidup Bay’s Milky Way rises along the western horizon during my annual October holidays. This small window of opportunity each year became my driving force. In 2021, I returned, only for clouds to once again veil the stars. In 2022, a storm thwarted my efforts. Each year brought new challenges, yet I remained undeterred.
2023: The Year of Triumph
Determined not to give up, in 2023, just before a girls' trip, I stayed nearby. With a packed dinner and hopeful heart, I headed to my spot to enjoy the sunset and scout the terrain. As the day faded into night, the sky remained clear. The stars began to emerge, and I felt a surge of emotion. After four years, I was finally going to get my shot.
A Change in Perspective
However, as the sky darkened and the Milky Way revealed itself, I faced an unexpected realization. The original composition I had envisioned no longer felt right. Instead, I found myself drawn to the spot where I always sit, overlooking the rock-face down to Injidup Bay's stunning turquoise waters. This was the true essence of my connection to this place.
I captured the shot from this vantage point, feeling that it encapsulated everything I love about Injidup Bay. Afterwards, I wandered around, taking a few more shots, and felt an overwhelming presence. This time, it was stronger than ever. I knew I had finally succeeded in my goal.
The Final Image: FourYears
The culmination of four years of persistence, this image, titled "FourYears," is more than just a photograph. It represents my journey, my connection to Injidup Bay, and the relentless pursuit of a dream.
Technical Details
Contract: ERC-721 Smart Contract
Edition: 1 of 1
Date: 12 October 2023
Camera: Nikon Z6
Size: 5737 x 3817
Sold Elsewhere: No
Single Frame: Yes
Artist: Vicki-Louise White @ VLWphotography