How I Quit My Job and Became a Full-Time Astrophotographer 📷

[@mike_abramyan]

For me, as someone following in your footsteps, this video was the most impactful. I loved watching every single upload. You were one of the few people who I'd drop everything for just to watch a new video. I'm grateful for everything you have done to inspire us all and thankful for this huge collection of videos you left behind. I will watch from a different perspective now, but one of wonder and inspiration nonetheless. Wherever you are now, I'm sure you've got clear skies 💔.

[@howareyou857]

I am so glad Alyn got to live a life he loved. RIP

[@OldVideoPutz]

R.I.P. Dear Alyn. We are all better for your efforts. You were an inspiration to thousands of photographers, and you will be missed. I feel fortunate that I was smart enough to purchase your book last year. It will always hold a place of honor in our home.

[@beeupsidedown]

did he die?

[@Matthew_Tyler]

@@beeupsidedownyes

[@turquoisesally]

This is so moving . RIP, and sincere condolences to all who knew and loved him. I only heard of Alyn last week. I hope these marvelous videos, a testament to his work and passion and appreciation of natural beauty remain online. It's so sad...

[@nightscapeimages.richard]

I really enjoyed listening to your story Alyn. There are quite a few similarities to mine these past years. I'm so pleased you've been recognised by so many people for your work . .it's great that you have raised the profile of nightscape photography around the world and given so many people enormous joy in the process. All the very best for the future mate .. I'll be following the journey.

[@squidskunk]

im a noob... i just ordered a MSM Nomad...i just found your channel... i just learned you've passed away...that makes me sad... Alyn you make a positive difference in peoples lives...thank you.

[@lathajes6199]

Happy for you Alyn that you’re following your heart.. Your passion for Astro is amazing .

[@astrolapse1668]

I like your honesty pal, well done.

[@ianlauerastro]

I've done the same, Alyn. Studied physics in astronomy at university, got a good job afterwards. I quit my job over a year ago to pursue astrophotography full time - and it's been the best decision of my life!

[@johnnycash4034]

I don't understand how someone makes money from doing this?

[@abellink]

@@johnnycash4034the video you commented literally answers this question 😂😂

[@ArtemisAtopos]

RIP Alyn. So glad you quit your job and LIVED.

[@1pcmedic]

I thank all of the Astrophotographers on KZbin who create tutorials and explain the equipment.

[@matej.mlakar]

The best way to end a Sunday 😀

[@8arrows]

Crap today is Sunday? Ughhh Monday’s...

[@reallymustgetalife]

Having been incredibly fortunate to have attended one of Alyn’s workshops in 2019, I can say that Alyn is a) a great teacher, b) very generous with helping others learn good photographic information, c) very quietly but immensely enthusiastic about his profession, and d)I found him to be very approachable to just chat with too.

[@wyngaart1]

You end by saying 'probably boring', but your videos never are!

[@stevenphardiman5782]

Those stars in the background now have a new friend, RIP and thank you for the inspiration x

[@cjt5mith]

Only recently discovered Alyn's videos. So sorry to hear he is no longer with us, but it looks from these comments as though he inspired many people with his enthusiasm for astrophotography. Got my first milky way shot ever at the weekend, and the fact that it was pretty good is due in no small part to Alyn's excellent advice. RIP.

[@roberthennessey128]

Great story Alyn..no matter what your past. You are a inspiration to any young man. You learned from those missteps and found what you love to do being astrophotographer. It shows in your passion for what you do…thanks for sharing Alyn..all the best to you.

[@cziasai]

RIP Alyn. Only just discovered astro and thus Alyns content. Man his stuff is awesome. Completely hooked. The world and beyond are gonna miss you mate!

[@Mikes-Mysteries]

I didnt expect the blunt honesty in your story. Thank you because its very inspiring. You do what I dream.

[@KyleSchneiderTM]

Great video Alyn. I know theres a ton of people trying to find a way to quit their jobs to pursue something they're passionate about, especially post COVID. This was definitely an inspiring video. You see all these vloggers out here with such high enthusiastic over the top energy, and not all of us are built that way. You've shown that you're one of those people that can still do it even as someone who comes off as very chill and matter of fact, and I can appreciate that and look up to that. Thanks for your content!

[@ShajahanPhotography]

Amazing story Alyn. Hats off to you 😊

[@markcollins3246]

So glad you persisted with building your business. You've inspired me and so many other people. So much respect for this video. Brave of you to be so honest! 👍🏻

[@cinnimonglozer7933]

What you said about that Milky Way video shot by the Sony A7S is how I felt when I found your channel! You are inspiring and your enthusiasm is catching. I love watching your adventures! Thanks so much for sharing.

[@sankethhiremath7119]

Thank You for Sharing with Us. Have been following you since 3 years, have learnt so so many things about astrophotography from You. Thank You to Patreon Supporters 🙏 . Looking forward to your Book. Take care. Stay safe

[@rxtxmedia]

Fantastic story Alyn. I admire your honesty. I myself fell down a rabbit hole of bad behaviour & to hear someone I watch be in a similar boat, and come out the other side and chase their dreams, is truly inspiring... so thank you! Clear skies 🤙🏻

[@avt_astro206]

This Is an Inspiring Story Alyn...!!! I myself is a Young Astronomer/Astrophotographer and This is an inspiration to me. Thanks a lot Man! This was A really Great Story, love your workl!!!

[@AlynWallace]

Glad to hear it thanks so much!

[@epic_playz4283]

YOUR EVERYWHERE

[@Tids_]

Really inspiring story mate, and the meteor at 2:17 when you were talking about your 1st was a nice sign you're doing what you should be doing. I look forward to more of your videos as I'm working my way through them!

[@sylvestersnet]

You were never boring Alyn. Such a talent!.. Clear skies mate! God Bless xxx

[@huf67]

It's amazing how life unfolds itself !! I really needed to hear this right now. I'm not quitting my job but needed to hear this to help get my head right !!!

[@carljarvinen1189]

Quite a story. Glad to see how someone so far down in the dumps can pull their life together and become very successful. An inspiration, looking forward to more of videos and your book.

[@nickroper1917]

I wasn’t bored for a single second of that Alyn, thanks for sharing your story. Absolute pleasure to support you on Patreon as well. Brilliant content on there and would highly recommend to anyone. Thanks for doing what you do and inspiring us! Don’t sweat the book, it’ll be ready when it’s ready and all the better for it.

[@Stillfilm1]

An inspiring and heartwarming video Alyn. I haven't had a TV for over 30 years but who needs one when you're on KZbin. It was you who first inspired me to try night photography and now friends think I'm mad being out half the night taking pictures. That has been helped tremendously by your reccommendation of the MSM and accessories. I wish you very much success for the future. A big thankyou from the dark skies of Cornwall.

[@Talal189]

Man hearing you, was like hearing my own story of having all the degrees and what not but not passionate about the job as it doesn't bring that happy feeling. I too ended up taking photography and ended my engineering career to photography and photo editing. I am too entering into astrophotography and your video just gave the right amount of push I needed to frame out what to do. I never met you but I can tell right away that you are open hearted ready to help, one great kind of a person. God Bless you Alyn, Lovely video, I am your subscriber too from today.

[@avinash21292]

Man! Even though I have been following for quite a few years now, I never came across this video! Going through this video made me wonder how you kept pushing! Your journey is an inspiration to many of us and your work is truly commendable! We thank you for your honest feedback of your journey and sharing your creativity with the world that has persevered you through this change!

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

I love this story. You always seem like a happy person. A lot of work and learning reflects in your vids. I love the Antarctica vid.- It's a stream that makes a river-, just the kind of thing that is so helpful and it just rolls. Maybe something you heard from your granddad.

[@gtj47]

Lovely that you shared your story with us, we certainly can see your passion in what you do, well done!!

[@therealwonkydog]

Thanks Alyn, you're the reason I have my first DSLR and few shots of Neowise and the Moon.

[@michaelmckeag960]

Allyn, this morning I belatedly got around to watching this video. So well done! After browsing a sample of the several hundred appreciative comments I have nothing more to add, just YES! Looking forward to the workshop at Crater Lake and Oregon Coast later this year.

[@AlynWallace]

Thanks so much Michael! Me too 😁

[@akarshakranot9233]

I am short of words. I really don't know how to thank you. The work you're doing has inspired so many people to just take a pause, breathe deep and take a look at the beauty of our night sky. Your work is not only beautiful but informative as well and I am so glad to have found you, a source of inspiration and happiness.❤️

[@izam2628]

So nice to listen to someone that is down to earth and honest , your work is amazing , thank you for sharing your story, your knowledge and inspiring us all !

[@alanevans9246]

Alyn, Just came across you as a photographer and your story here on YTube. I was introduced to you by Nigel Danson in one of his latest posts…. I have really enjoyed getting to know your work and in particular, hearing your story (Journey) to where you are today. Thanks for sharing it! Looking forward to more of your work. I have always been interested in Astrophotography and have some “moon shots”, but never made the leap to all that is out there. You have inspired me to start looking up at night in a whole new way. Many thanks and keep snapping!

[@rutvikpatel6251]

I had a same feeling when tried a long exposure with my smartphone. I was like what!!! Though the shots were worst the feeling was just awesome 😂 And then just started looking for the creators and found about you and man you are great. Inspired by you i started astrophotography and today the joy of seeing the milky way on the screen of my dslr is just out of the world. Thank you for your work!!😇

[@kamilkp]

I love vids like these. Peter Zelinka recently shared his life story and now you, amazing journey man and I’m so happy for you that it worked out the way it did. It was not boring at all man, watched till the last second. Can’t wait for your Ps panel 😁

[@HelenasAstrophotography]

You are such an inspiration Alyn! Love your story :D

[@AlynWallace]

Right back at ya Helena. Such an inspiration for young people, for women, for astronomers of all levels and you have astronomical potential! Keep it up

[@prestondyches9829]

Great hearing your story, Alyn. Your authenticity shines through in these videos. They’ve been an inspiration for me during the pandemic, starting my own astrophotography journey. You’re doing meaningful work and we appreciate it.

[@ericvanhorn7986]

Such an inspiration. Thank you for being so raw. I feel you. I've been on that journey. And I'm feeling my way through it now. Awesome, man.

[@drubber007]

Thanks for sharing your story Alyn. Similar to mine in some ways from the early references to drugs & unenjoyable work life. Being a landscape photographer for many years you have opened my eyes to Astro, so I am forever grateful for that. Keep up the amazing work, you are a joy to watch & follow mate!!

[@markhollinshead9617]

You must be so proud of yourself Alyn of where you've been and where you are now. I like that you have been so open about your past and that you are now a true gentleman astrophotographer . As always your such an inspiration. Keep doing what your doing. Well done mate.

[@lukomatico]

That was brilliant to watch Alyn, thank you! - Wishing you good fortune mate!

[@andreaboyle9435]

I enjoyed this so much, Alan. You really spoke from your heart. That’s what we love about you and your work. It is genuine, including your failures and triumphs. Keep doing what you do and love and we will be right there with you in support!

[@johnadastra1754]

Alyn, the way you have the night sky subtly in the background with the twinkling stars is always impressive. So soothing, mysterious, and beautiful....

[@Wheeljack678]

That felt really honest and inspiring. I really like that you sort of aim for the "overall consumer market". As you're getting more and more popular and (I assume) being approached by larger suppliers, I guess it is kind of tempting to feature expensive equipment that few can really reasonably afford for a hobby. I've been watching your videos for a good while now, and last year I actually ended up ordering the MSM startracker based on yours (and Alex McGregors) review of the device. I find your videos and especially vlogs very inspiraional. Keep up the good work Alyn.

[@alexbell3765]

I’m delighted for you that your hobby has become your job and you enjoy sharing it with us all. That’s the dream, right? You inspire me to put on my boots and take my camera out at night. So cheers to you Alyn.

[@Codlipps]

Loved every minute of it, wish you every success for the future Alyn, bloody love your work

[@sallyjberry805]

What a wonderful and honest recap of your journey to where you are today. And who knows what the future will bring? I honestly create very little astrophotography photos only occasionally venturing out at the night. The night sky is magical! I love to hear and learn about the night sky and creating beautiful images and constantly look forward to your content. It seems like the most gifted artist and creators are the ones that take a while to use that potential ... and struggle to "fit" into the traditional expectations/routine of jobs that do not use their gifts effectively. I will continue to support your content and look forward to your upcoming book!

[@aldiosmio]

Thank you for the heart-to-heart Alyn. And thank you for introducing me to Move-Shoot-Move; this pandemic allowed me to go back into my love for astronomy and photography, and MSM allowed me to go deeper into astrophotography without breaking the bank.

[@helencogan2187]

NOT BORING AT ALL..Thank YOU,Alyn… you have been an inspiration to me from the first video I watched.. you are a gift…

[@lanaresastrophotographie8439]

That's a really good story Alyn !!! I have a french astrophotophy channel with only 1,5k suscribers but when starting a channel, you suddenly realise how powerful is KZbin, it's a lovely adventure connecting people and meet them at events.

[@ellag6920]

Such a moving story! Very motivational. Thank you for sharing and being so open valuable.

[@ChrisHunt4497]

Well done Alyn. Such an amazing story. I have been a follower for years now. Someone recommended your Pre sets and I fell in love with your channel. You turned your life around and you should be very proud. You are flying and it’s wonderful to see. 👍👍👍👍🥰🥰

[@dannissley4633]

Great video Alyn…thank you for becoming vulnerable and sharing your personal journey. It’s truly inspiring!

[@stevepecket2535]

Wow. What a really no holds barred honest reality view.(and got to say brave) SO IMPRESSED. Love the vids. Love the pics. Really looking forward to the book

[@3082frank]

All the best Alyn. I always enjoy listening to stories of life changing experiences. It is very encouraging as I am on the same boat of waking up everyday for work and not enjoying it. Also, you are the first astrophotographer I started following as...you dont have one of those crazy telescope rigs and just keep things simple but capture great wonderful astro images..you and peter inspired me to get my first sky guider. All the best for the future.

[@topcontentyt8172]

That was super enjoyable, I watched the whole way threw and didn’t get bored 1 bit! Great video Alyn and thank you patreon ❤️

[@Robqwerty-u3g]

Just started following you mate, what a honest and open video, well done because you've followed you heart.

[@Nexus-mn3jz]

Thank you for this ! I Just got out of the military and was looking for some inspiration and you have raised my confidence even more to get into photography in general ! We have similar stories and I’m glad I came across this page today honestly made my day ! Looking forward to watching more videos and building my own set up here soon with the Sony A1.

[@brianfulda]

Proud of you for taking the leap, Alyn. Great story. The way you described a camera as a technical machine with creative controls was brilliant.

[@RaysAstrophotography]

Thanks for sharing the story, Alyn! Extremely authentic and a great deep dive. Good luck with everything!

[@rdavies1305]

Genuine passion for a subject is infectious, It comes across through your content in bucket loads, it can only inspire. 👍

[@PaulMDillon]

Thank you for being so vulnerable and sharing your story. This speaks to me on so many levels. You’ve inspired me before for so many reasons. You’re so humble, smart and such a great photographer and I appreciate everything you do. Keep inspiring my friend.

[@jpastroguy]

Amazing story of finding yourself through experimentation, trial and stumbles. You are an awesome teacher and entertainer! Keep it coming, and best wishes for continued success! Watching you from Japan.

[@romanv153]

Thanks for sharing your story! It's refreshing to hear someone tell their candid story and it very much resonates with me at the moment. I've come to similar realizations working as a software developer these past few years and have just started making strides towards building up my photography career.

[@AstroRoad]

Such a great journey so far Alyn, takes real courage to jump from the safe path of steady job and income to follow your passion. I really appreciate you sharing this. Peter Zelinka did a similar video a while back, just amazing to hear your perspectives and how you found your way to where you are now.

[@samirtorqui2723]

I think you made the best choice Alyn, you have discovered that you are above all an artist photographer! the main thing is to feel good and happy in your life. I wish you much success in your artistic and cultural astrography project. I keep watching your channel and to learn from you .

[@neilpitchford2498]

Thank you for this, I have seen an awful lot of photographers stuff on here and this one, is one of the best I have ever seen. Didn't know much about you, tbh, but have subscribed because I like your approach and honesty

[@Digmen1]

HI Alyn Your story was amazing. I am so pleased that you are doing what you love, and that you can make a living at it.

[@denisefoote647]

Really enjoyed this Alyn. So open and so honest. I’ve been following you for a long time now Alyn and I feel proud of you for being brave and taking that big step to leave work and start your own business. Well done.

[@Jwb-d6h]

Brilliant Alyn - very honest, inspiring and beautiful. Now that the current situation is lifting, I hope to be back in touch soon to re book that private tutorial we spoke about some 18 months ago. Love your work and your commitment to being true to yourself.

[@KODOPhoto]

Alyn, thanks for pulling back the curtain and for your candor. As if I didn't have enough respect for you - you just doubled it. As a fellow engineer (now retired), I can appreciate your path. You are quite the inspiration.

[@jonoskinner9]

Top stuff Alyn! I'm down and Sydney and unfortunately missed out on taking astro photos with the new moon earlier this month due to inclement weather. This video was just what I needed to inspire me to get in the car last Tuesday, when there was an early moonset, and head up to the mountains. Only my third time properly out trying to photograph the milky way but it was an amazing experience as always. So cheers for the inspiration.

[@AndreaRiezzo]

Maybe your best video ever 🙂 thank you for sharing your story and experiences. The twilight and the stars blinking on the background are the cherries in top of the cake. 👏🏻

[@wesleydonnelly2141]

I identified with a lot of your early life struggles Alyn. Well Done for how hard you have worked and how far you have come since those difficult dark times. I now respect you 10'000 times more than before i watched this video my friend! Your an inspiration to many...Wes, Liverpool, UK.

[@ayeshamartin_868]

RIP Alyn. Kudos to living your life your way.. .Your work will live on. Cruise peacefully through the cosmos 🌠

[@benengwirda4]

Congratulations mate all your hard work has paid off. Thank you for all your inspiration from you videos.

[@philclancaster]

Thank you for your openness and honesty. I wish more people would follow your example.

[@mr_nemo24]

It felt like 5 min video for me. You are amazing Alyn. Thank you for sharing the work of your life.

[@carlyoung412]

Thank you, Alyn, for putting yourself out there for us to hear. Happy for anyone who knows what they want and has the courage to go for it...even against some daunting odds.

[@sundeepsembi6091]

Can’t wait for my copy of your book. Really hope you start doing workshops again !

[@reallymustgetalife]

Fascinating vlog, what a journey! So glad you took that leap of faith, you have worked so hard to get where you are today.

[@John_Fugazzi]

I was going to watch just a little since it would not be like your usual presentation, but your story was so compelling about how all this came about that I watched it all. I know you'll always be glad you made the decision to go out on your own.

[@Zeyervv]

Hard work pays off. You seem like one of the nicest guys ever and everything you have established is well deserved. Reach for the stars Alyn!

[@jodiearrington]

This is great. So inspiring. Thank you for sharing your wonderful story Alyn.

[@precisionN]

Alyn, your work is amazing, i was heavily on alcohol in a lost place and always took a liking to photography. few years back I stumbled onto your YT channel, it blew my mind, picked up my first camera a Nikon 3200, and it kept me busy, learning astro.. sitting up late, or waiting for the blood moon and learning about stars/planets, times and planning your photography, iv learnt so much from you. its inspiring and some of the things captured have been amazing. keep up your good work mate. Im now 1.5 years alcohol free

[@AlynWallace]

This is so awesome to read dude thanks for letting me know. And congrats on the sobriety, be proud!

[@precisionN]

@@AlynWallace this has blown my mind more

[@vivekvenugopal1106]

Really an inspirational video ... going through such a situation on my mind, really love to follow my mind to landscape and Astro photography.

[@JamieGillies]

Thanks for your story and congratulations on finding your passion and building on it. All the best for the future!

[@BigfootDigger]

Excellent honest and interesting video.. thank you for sharing I have taken a rest from KZbin as you say it takes a lot to keep going with a youtube channel and you are doing great ..stay safe and well Alyn, looking forward to the next video.

[@KevinTanger]

Thanks for sharing your story, Alyn!

[@FlyinRyanProductions406]

A true legend and I will never forget you. I will be forever grateful of the knowledge you have provided me. 😥

[@AstroDork]

Thankyou so much for sharing your story. Mine is similar and I think those of us who have lived through it and thrived have a responsibility to speak openly about it so that those who are struggling in silence know that there is a way out. I love your grandads advice too btw. 10 years sober :) Keep up the good work bro

[@Josh.Wilson]

Alyn, thank you for this video! It was great to hear where you came from, and how you got to where you are today. I hope one day to be able to join you in one of your workshops, or even meet up in person! When I was first starting to get interested in the night sky, and got my first camera a little over 3 years ago, your videos were among the first I found when searching for information on Astrophotography. From the start you were one of my biggest inspirations, and still are!