The Dark Side Of Astro (My Shameful Story)

[@DylanODonnell]

Never buy drugs on credit.

[@AstroFarsography]

😅😂 ain't that the hard truth there

[@voDKaandEric]

I was heading down that road. I was at OkieTex and a guy piped up”why do spend so much money and time for stuff we can download these pictures for free.” Crushed me. 10 years later I go out every clear night with enthusiasm. The reason? Astronomy/astrophotography enhances my life. Simple as that. You can play the guitar without being a rock star.

[@ryanq8316]

Firstly, hats off for an honest and topical video, I think nearly every astrophotographer has had that feeling of 'what do I get next' and you can end up spending vast amounts of cash and still want more! Secondly, try not to be too hard on yourself, your presence on KZbin has helped hundreds if not thousands of people with their own astrophotography experiences, you're one of the first youtubers I watched on AP and I still revisit your videos over and over again to help with my own AP - that is something to be proud of and something you should hold your head high about. People get in debt for all sorts of reasons and there are a lot worse things you could have done with that money, at the very least it's helped others to understand AP and advance their own skills, so not all wasted my friend, although that may be a small consolation to you. keep your head up man and keep up the remarkable work you've been doing over the last few years, because I for one, would love to see more from you! Clear Skies.

[@Wheeljack678]

Wow! That was brutally honest and must have taken a lot of courage. Mad respect! I am glad you are only doing KZbin as a hobby, because I think your content is much better because of it. I am going to paraphrase your own words in this video and say that "The best KZbin video is the one you want to make - not the one you feel you have to make!" I've personally been inspired by your content and I am the proud owner of an ED80, mostly because of your video on it. I've enjoyed your "what to image in " videos, because you also cover appropriate focal lengths. And, I enjoy your astrophoto-vlogs simply because that's content I like watching. Especially when it's cloudy where I'm at.

[@GalacticHunter]

You're an awesome Astro KZbinr! It's nice to make this type of video because you can look back at it 5 years from now and really realize how much better things got 💪🏻

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks dude appreciate the words! Yeah, will definitely look back at these times in the future and see how things have changed!

[@davidrobertson4530]

Respect - good video. I came across a quote the other day when talking about "needing" something. It said to add "... or I will die" to the end of the sentence to see how much you really need it.

[@gregerianne3880]

Thanks for having the courage to make this video! You really nailed what many of us go through in terms of 'needing' more equipment, needing it NOW, but not having the 'mad money' to get those things now. Personally, I seem to gravitate to hobbies that are money pits, flying and astronomy/astrophotography being the latest. I can easily apply the old saying to those hobbies: "The way to make a small fortune in , is to start out with a large fortune!" Thanks again. This really resonated in many ways, and I appreciate you making this video. (I'm just back from a 6 month 'finding excuses not to go out' break, which is why I'm just now commenting.)

[@HelenasAstrophotography]

Loved this one Ruz! Always admire the transparency of your channel. So much respect for you!

[@rajsastrophotography]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts about falling into a rabbit hole of Astrophotography spendings. It need lot of guts to admit mistakes and you did a great job there. I did Uber (second job) for awhile to get my telescope, I didn’t wanna use my day job salary for this luxury hobby.

[@Doofclena]

Takes a lot of guts to make a video like this. My hat is off to you, sir! You have my utmost respect! I have learned a great deal from watching your videos, you always give an honest appraisal of the equipment you review, and your tutorials are easy to follow. Keep up the magnificent job you do here on KZbin!!!

[@LogansAstro]

Well done on making this video and sharing your thoughts. You are absolutely correct that the best equipment is the equipment you actually use and can afford. And I totally agree with you about how making videos and chasing likes can lead you away from the actual hobby itself. You shouldn’t call your video a “shameful story”- you learnt from the mistakes made and are trying to help others - there is no shame in that. Maybe re-title it “a cautionary tale”. Hope you keep enjoying the hobby and making the videos (when you feel like it of course) - Clear Skies.

[@fallbrookastro]

firs timer here. as a college student with no job and no money it was really refreshing to watch this, especially after buying my first clip in Ha filter for my DSLR. hearing your story has just reinforced what astrophotography means to me, so i’m really glad you’ve made this. definitely earned my sub

[@martinjacobvitz886]

This is a brilliant post. GAS is real and the rationalization to buy more is easy to do. Astrophotography is challenging... Cloudy nights, cold nights, gear failures during a run, flexure, bloated stars, full moon, set up, tear down and comparing my results to other's results .... It takes dedication and in the end simplification is the way to go Thanks again for posting this!

[@HollomanUFOLanding]

A brave & enlightened man. Thanks for sharing your journey so that others may benefit. You're clearly in service to others and not yourself, and that is a wonderful & blessed gift. Clear skies!

[@ThinkableCreations]

Kind of like “Keeping up with the Joneses” of Astrophotography. Absolutely understand what you went through. I have found that the most important thing in this hobby is enjoying the views of the night sky with the equipment that you have available and making the best of it. Hope everyone is doing well. Clear skies.

[@jasonlewis6021]

Done, Paused...thanks very much for the reality check. I got into this hobby because I enjoy astronomy, I recognize money helps but it is not everything, you can get away with a minimal investment (all relative of course). My wife got me a Celestron refractor from Costco for under $300 including and alt/az mount, a year later I was fortunate enough to be able to get an entry level GEM. I found a 1990's 60mm Pentax refractor for $6.00 that i use for guiding and a used T3i at a thrift store for $17.00 It barely functions, but it does, so I modified it myself, bought some plumbing pipe to make tube rings and some aluminium to make a mounting bar for the guide scope and all that cost me under $45 CAD, then scrounged up enough for an ASI air Pro, and I'm good to go! I am producing reasonable images that make me happy, they will never compare to serious imagers, but I am happy...long story short, find budget stuff, have fun and stay out of debt if you can, keep your hobby stress free!

[@lukomatico]

This was an interesting one mate, well done for just hitting record and getting it out there! The part about mono killing the enjoyment really resonated haha, I had the same thing happen a few times over early on! I reckon I could tackle it now and not lose the mojo too badly, but I guess you never really know until you do it! Clear skies man :-)

[@sjpp71]

Great video man, thanks for your honesty. I can totally relate to this topic, yes getting new gear can become sort of an addiction to some. In one of his videos, Ed Ting says something like: "in astronomy, like other hobbies, we tend to spend a lot of money only to later realise, we did not need to spend that lot of money".

[@corinlewis3073]

I was here on This Saturday night watching your video, I'm glad that opened yourself like, I know it couldn't had been easy but you did anyway, Astrophtography hobby is challenging at time, just remember why got into this in the first place, we all human and all mistakes when come to credit debt. I hope you going to imageing tonight like all of us, clear skies 🌠

[@petequintanilla4237]

I watched this entire video all the way to the end. I think this is subject is as important as anything I’ve seen from the other KZbinrs. Also, I appreciate your use of the term GAS (nod to Chelsea Northrop). Anyway, your a young guy with a big road ahead of you. Make good choices and keep helping us with astrophoto advice we can actually understand. Thank you!

[@AstroFarsography]

I did wonder where I remembered G.A.S from and it certainly was from the Northrups. Enjoy their content, they taught me how to use my DSLR in thr first place 😁 thanks for thr comment Pete! Clear skies

[@gwthomas52]

You're a man of true character. Well played. It makes your videos even more precious and real. We've all have or will get infected with Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS). I went down that road with musical equipment and learned from it. I wrestle with the temptation with my this hobby. Thank you.

[@kevingilchrist1684]

Thank you for your honesty and don’t beat yourself up to much. You are on the right road regarding your finances. I’m a member of a Los Angeles area astronomy club and I try to make people aware as early on as I can that yes, this hobby can be a money-pit. Unfortunately so many new members come into the imaging niche already encumbered with inappropriate equipment that is not up to the basic job because a salesman said “buy this” or they just don’t have a clear idea of what types of objects they want to image. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A “ONE SIZE FITS ALL” IN THIS HOBBY. Before buying any equipment talk to experienced people in your local club. Read, view videos as well and you will soon discover that imaging small objects is generally more costly and difficult due to high focal lengths paired with big, heavy (steadier) mounts.

[@Astrotivissa]

Thanks for this video Ruz. What you say is very important, when you want to professionalize a hobby, you run out of hobby. Doing it because you like it and not putting pressure on yourself is what I think gives the best results. But I know perfectly well that it is a hobby where you push yourself to be up to date. A greeting and a hug from Spain.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks! Yeah, finding that fine line between hobby and monetising something is critical to get right for sure. Greetings in return to you!

[@stefanschneider3681]

Me again: I expected something totally different, like how you bumped into the tripod and had to re-do the polar alignment, forgot to charge your batteries, didn't check focus in between, messed up the stacking, had a plan, set up the telescope then a house / a tree / a mountain was in the way, drove to a dark site and forgot to check the weather a last time, didn't have enough SD-cards with you, just these troubles we all run into. But then came something totally different, your honest thoughts went way beyond that and again: Well done!

[@MrBebopbob]

Thanks Ruseen. I have followed your channel for a few years and I always enjoyed your content, probably because your channel is one of a (dwindling) few which didn't fell like an advertisement. I especially enjoy your videos which aim to teach and inform. This is a complex hobby which has become much more accessible because of content providers like you. A little self reflection is always good, but don't be so hard on yourself. Clear skies, Bob

[@bobmcelvogue8133]

Well done. Well said. All the gear, no idea syndrome Is how refer to it. I bought an ASI533 back in November and struggled to get good results. Thought the solution was but an ASI2600 mc. I persuaded myself to preserver. Started using NINA. got an autofocus. Then started using dithering. I’ve made a monumental leap in my astrophotography. Images are getting so much better. But, GAS niggles. I still think I needs the asi2600. Fortunately you’ve reminded me I don’t. There’s a lot yet to do with the asi533. Thanks. Clear skies.

[@togray619]

At last, someone said it! I can't believe you are talking about this now as I'm at the same place and going through the same thing, not only with cameras, but with astro gear in general. This hobby can be like an addiction. Got to have this, got to have that. I took a step back when I realized I have not even used many of the items I have on hand. Please don't stop with this topic! Please lead us out of this mess we have gotten ourselves into!

[@markorcutt2115]

My impetus of learning Astrophotography was to spend time away from the disaster of my work during the virus. I began watching the videos and was mesmerized by the images. My faith teaches many things, knowing God created the light with his Word. I am observing light from millions of years before I existed with the knowledge that God knew I would be sitting in some darkened location to “see” his light. So I started the hobby with limits to learn with what I started with and accepting these limits when viewing my results.

[@cmeluzzi]

We sometimes make suboptimal decisions, this is part of life. Don't penalize yourself too much because of that. I bought myself a guider and I discovered that I don't like the overhead of installing and using it. But with so many people talking that guiders are a must, I just wanted to get one. Thanks for the openness and also for the hints about competitiveness/social media. We need to keep focus on what really matters, which is practicing our hobby with full pleasure. Cheers!

[@Dances_With_Skies]

I just wanted to give a personal thank you for this video. It takes bravery to admit you made a stupid mistake. Hindsight is always 20-20 and thankfully you have shared your hindsight so others don’t have to go through this themselves. I personally started watching videos and tutorials like yours before I even had a single piece of equipment including a camera other than the one on my smart phone! I just found it extremely entertaining. Some people watch reruns of Friends or Seinfeld. I watch these videos. As my enthusiasm grew people around me took notice and I was fortunate enough that some people had some old equipment gathering dust that they donated to me. I always share my results with them first. Some things are only shared with them exclusively. For me it’s always been about entertainment. You hear so many stories like yours where someone finds a way to make money doing what they love (and you should) and then fall out of love with it. The cook who goes home after a shift and orders takeout or the lawn care professional who has the worst lawn on the block for example. What keeps me grounded and not chasing the next best piece of equipment or getting too disappointed with myself for my lack of processing abilities is rather obvious - the stars. When you stare into the abyss long enough, the abyss starts talking back. It’s meditative and a form of therapy for myself. When the world is at war like it is now, the stars always help “ground” myself. They make me realize that there are more important things in life than anything else including food and money. Existence. If the world spent more time looking up at the stars, there would be more peace and that’s a fact. Have a good day and clear skies!

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks for the comment! Yeah that's really nice that you were donated gear, and very kind that you share the content with those who donated to you. Nice little completing circle there. Yeah one problem when you can monetise a hobby is finding that fine line to tread. Even if I was earning enough from KZbin to go full time, I would nowadays really sit down and seriously consider the ramifications of that first. As for your analogy for the cook and the gardner. It's funny that I can absolutely confirm that. I used to work as a chef when I was at college. I would get McDonalds and such at the end of a shift cus it was late and I'd been cooking all day. Now I'm a mechanic, my car has a warning light on the dash that's been there for years. I can fix it, I know what's wrong with it. Just not got the effort to get round to doing it! Also agree about the sky and stars. They're always there and going out sometime to look up and take it all in is seriously food for the soul.

[@rickspeedygonzales]

Great vid, spot on. I fell into that hole also, almost like "Panic Buying", thinking I wouldn't be able to buy gear in the future if I didn't buy it now. As with most things in life, time has a way of sorting things out, ad getting smarter. I really like helping out folks that are just getting into the hobby, along with setting the expectation of the reality of photographs that take HOURS or DAYS to create. In the past I would see a picture of say, the Andromeda galaxy. It would have a price tag of over $100 dollars and I would be like, "jeez that's crazy expensive!"....then viewing it for the first time as a small smudge in the night sky.....oblivious to the passion it takes to capture deep space images.....Bravo on the vid, keep up the great work

[@comeraczy2483]

Yep, that was a truckload of bad purchasing decisions 🙂. Thanks a lot for sharing and welcome to the world of in-your-face consumerism. On the plus side, you now have a great opportunity for a follow-up video: root cause analysis, pre-emptive strategies and corrective actions. In light of your hardship, I feel incredibly privileged for being so stingy and debt averse - and also for not caring about likes and recognition. That enabled me to have a very satisfying astrophotography journey on a $300 budget.

[@AstroCosas]

Congrats for a 100% honest video. Your channel is one I see regularly, and your content has been (and is) really helpful. I'm at that moment where I have to improve myself, no my gear. Been figthing the upgrade fever and concentrating on working on my skills, not an easy task... Again, thank you for this video!

[@Johnnyboing]

Love your honesty Ruz. You do have to be careful, and sometimes to just step back and refocus on what you Love about this hobby.

[@goldrivertv581]

Thanks for making this video,. I’m that one person that you saved! I just canceled a redcat 71 that I ordered on the old credit card. I’ll learn to take pics with my old modified Orion and save up

[@brandoncarter7860]

I love your continued honesty! I love your videos and keep up the good work!

[@cityspaceastro]

Good Video Ruz. Like any hobby this can become an addiction. I'm glad you have reached the point where you only produce what you want to produce and not for the clicks. Take Care, Keep smiling and keep looking up.- Martin

[@Astro_Ophiuchus]

Wow… I have a new respect for you my friend. I’m a huge fan of yours. Honesty will get you everywhere. Never stop being who you are or be ashamed of anything. Keep it up my friend. You’re the real deal. Sending lots of positive thoughts to you all the way from Philadelphia, USA…. Oh, and if you ever come to the USA, make sure you stop in Philly. I’d love to take you to Cherry Springs State Park!! 😀

[@billchilds4261]

Thanks for the great video. I think all of us can relate to some or all of the fine points you bring up!

[@guiemlarch]

I just love this channel because you are so natural. It feels real and I learned a lot from your videos but, more than that, I enjoyed all of them. I laughted also in some spontaneous moments. Thank you for sharing this video. All my respect.

[@upnorthoffcuts929]

I'm going to give you a like and a sub for this one. I got into this hobby about six months ago and it has been one steep rabbit hole from the beginning. I'm about $6K+ USD into it already (all paid up and no debt) and I haven't even got one image taken yet. I'm gearing up for retirement in a few months and gearing up for this hobby at the same time. I know I'll enjoy it later on down the road. I hope others who want to get into it will research the topic and plan and prepare for it and not get drawn into it spending money and then losing interest. Keep up the great work and I hope to see more great content down the road. God bless. John.

[@tamrich7762]

Thank you for sharing my old friend,take care,love your KZbin channel.

[@truenotrev]

Power to you for your honesty and transparency, I get where you're coming from, I know how you feel.. Keep the good content coming and the images too. Happy Hump day, the weekend is pending and hopefully we'll still have a planet to call home by then #peace #clearskies

[@avt_astro206]

Very Inspiring Ruiz. I really Got some Motivation From watching This Video. I do Astrophotography with a 5.1 inch newt and an Alt az go to mount. To be Honest I immediately Wanted To buy an Eq, But after Trying some Targets With it, Im Impressed with What's Possible. This Hobby Is Pretty Expensive Indeed, Its Best To Make the Most out of What You have by Not Giving Up. Will Do My Upgrades eventually in future, Slowly but Surely! Thank you for all Your Efforts man!!😊 Clear Skies

[@shaunsprogress]

It's brave of you sharing this. I think a lot of astrophotography youtubers are basically glorified adverts and salesmen. A lot of people are spending a ton on gear because they think they need it to enjoy themselves. You don't! One thing I can say is NEVER buy anything on finance unless it's 0%apr and never on credit card unless you already have the money to pay it off at the end of the month! Work overtime and save up extra for hobby gear!

[@astrojourneyuk]

A fantastic video and I suspect we have all been there in some form. This hobby isn’t cheap and it’s all too easy the get caught in the trap of wanting more. I love the point on the best scope. I have my first 8inch newt and barely use it. Although might again for galaxy season.

[@astroimage2025]

Thank you for sharing this. It is too easy to get into a hole. Thankfully, for me at least, the supply chain holdups made me take a step back and hold off on some purchases. Usually the next morning I decided I’m wasn’t at the point I actually needed the next big thing. Learn with what I’ve got, go through a whole season, or even a couple of seasons, get the best with what I got and then take the next step. I’m learning this is a lifelong hobby. There’s a lot of steps to learn, it’s taking me a lot of time, I get frustrated sometimes, but I’ll keep plugging on

[@riaandewinnaar5040]

6 Scopes and mounts. Bunches of gear everywhere. Probably 8000 GBP in. Too late for me... We've had El Nina in South Africa for the last 6 months. Not sure I remember how.

[@3SistersAstroOldAcct-fh3hd]

Thank you for this. Hit a slump recently. Appreciate you taking the time to share.

[@DavesAstrophotography]

Hi Ruz, love you open and honesty in this video. Unfortunately I think the core problem is deep rooted in the society we live in, where finance and loans are pushed everywhere. You just have to look at the amount of money spent on advertising in this area. I remember when I was living in the UK, it felt like every 2nd advert on the TV was to do with getting credit. The get it now, worry about paying for it later is everywhere. Even the likes of the online majors are pushing credit options at checkout. Credit is unfortunately too accessible resulting in debt mountains for individuals.

[@RaysAstrophotography]

That final laugh is pretty refreshing! Most of the time letting it get out of the system keeps ourselves honest to self. Good work!

[@geoffwatt7208]

Well said. I certainly saw myself in many of your comments and hopefully your honesty will help someone else take a second look before jumping. Thanks a bunch. Clear skies to all.

[@dumpydalekobservatory]

Hey Ruz it were nice meeting you at the PAS yesterday & yeah I can relate as I've made a few mistakes buying equipment along the way I've still got stuff that I don't use & probably never will so really ought to move it on. Look forward to watching some more reviews clear skies mate.

[@chridignan9178]

Thank you for this and your honesty. Similar story here. When the enjoyment and cash stops, have a think. It's anti-social enough doing this amazing/crazy hobby anyway. I've re-tried my 'old' equipment and it's just as fun. Power to you.

[@gregsleap4909]

Thank you for this video and being so open about how this wonderful hobby can have a really serious dark side. I went to straight to mono from a DSLR after only a few months in the hobby and boy did it burn a hole in my wallet. There is still lots of expensive stuff on my wishlist but I've realised I don't *need* any of it- it's quality of life stuff really- cable/power management, EAF, mini PC (instead of clunky laptop), dovetail upgrade for my mount, mount hypertuning, a mount trolley, dedicated astro flatpanel, a widefield refractor like a redcat, a hyperstar for my EdgeHD, etc, etc, etc. It never ends! All of this adds up to *many* thousands of $$$$, but I've put the brakes on spending any more and I'm wanting to go as long as I can just using the stuff I have and really trying to get the most out of it! Your video has helped me justify this position! This hobby can be all encompassing: in time, money, energy and we need to remember we do this for *fun* and that if it is adversely affecting other parts of our life (debt, relationships, etc) we need to reign it back in! Anyway, thanks again for this and keep having fun out there!

[@peterbriggs3408]

Thank you ❤️ I still need an EQ6-R PRO though 😱

[@richardshevalier5533]

Awesome video mate. I was just getting into this hobby, and the G.A.S. pressure is H U G E from all the KZbin videos. I was feeling it and gave into getting a star tracker, but now I'm feeling I have to back off because I fell that it would be TOO easy to run up the credit card. This is an EXCELLENT lesson for all of us, and you've confirmed for me that backing off is the right thing for me. I'll be happy to keep playing with the equipment I have and working to get the best images I can with the least amount of equipment. Thanks SO MUCH for this video!!!!

[@mgastronomy]

Hello Ruz. Very sensitive and transparent from you. That’s why I like your channel. Keep it humble dude. Your knowledge as astrophotographer is a great asset. Luckily, you have no need for more gear , nor the need to promote stuff. Enjoy what you have and keep doing videos when you can. Clear skies.

[@markharris4421]

Cheers for the heads up Ruz! My gear is mostly 2nd hand all cash purchased. But I have been looking at some pretty exy upgrades.... until now. Thanks 👍

[@cjmenagh882]

Thanks for a great video. Compulsory viewing for those starting out. Take a break when you need to, we all need a break from the hobby. Mine lasted 7 years but now back with mid level DSLR setup and loving it again. Your videos have always been very helpful.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks CJ. That mid level DSLR setup sounds great fun to use. Sometimes the more light and basic the gear, the better. Yeah I take breaks when I need, that's why I don't really worry about committing to upload schedules and such! Glad my content has helped you

[@bofblog]

Like all the previous comments I applaud your transparency and honesty about all this .so glad you escaped the black hole and continue to produce great images with you enthusiasm and love of astronomy and astrophotogrphy..respect..clear skies

[@JosephTatumPage]

Luv you Ruz. This video is something everyone needs to hear

[@robertocarloscaruso6840]

This video is gold. You are in the right path. Glad to be suscribed.

[@marccarrier]

You are awesome for having the humility of sharing such a personnal difficult story. Great message! Thank you. You have found your own unique style of presenting your work and I hope you continue with renewed inspiration.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks for the comment Marc, appreciate it. Yep, feeling a lot better these days with a colour cam and wider setup that's for sure :)

[@AstroDenny]

This is good advice! I went out and blew a ton of cash I shouldn't have as well. It's an easy trap to fall into in any hobby but it hits hard in this one just because of the staggering expenses for some of the equipment! I'm making up for it by using my spare gear to help people coming up and doing as much community outreach as I can.

[@tizocsuarez7772]

Greetings from Costa Rica, very brave and humble from you to share this with us. We all go thru all or parts of this. Thank you

[@claytonwebb9388]

Great video. We've all been there. Apature feavour is a real thing so I've always tried to remind people it's like golf or any other hobby. If you throw money at it you deny yourself the journey and fall out of love with it because its a hard hobby. Not for the faint hearted or for those looking for shortcuts. Love your channel by the way. Keep up the good work.

[@scottrk4930]

Wow! Well said and well done you ! Too many Astro Vlogs seem to forget that this is a "Hobby" and we're just "Amateurs" . They're all about getting the absolute latest and greatest piece of kit and comparing their Images with those from Hubble (?) or at least scoring an APOD . For me , I don't care . If I can tell a Planet from a Galaxy from a Comet in my Images then I'm a happy Amateur Astronomer . Time to enjoy the Hobby again . Cheers /SRK

[@OverlandUnknown]

Thank you for being so honest. I'm only new to astrophotography and I have taken what you've said onboard. I also respect you, it's hard to admit shortcomings, especially in a public way. Cheers mate.

[@Mobius3c273]

You get my total respect. I love listening to real people. Hopefully your video helps others. I suppose it is like a form of addiction.Luckily I can afford the hobby.. but boy it is a cash blackhole. I hope you can get back out of the debt black hole you were pulled into... please do not cross the Event Horizon towards that singularity my friend.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Robbie, appreciate it! Yeah it is insane how easy you can get hooked on buying stuff. It gives a dopamine hit I believe like there's actual psychology behind why buying is a good feeling so I can see how it becomes addictive for sure. Yeah getting better these days for sure. Will be debt free in about 3 years now but that's all the debt and not just the astrophotography debt so will get there in time

[@joshv1232]

This is a great video for many astrophotgraphers. I also think that this video speaks about the astrophotography community itself, in the sense that many believe and say on forums etc ,that one must have expensive equipment just to do this hobby, even though this isn’t the case. For many beginners, this is extremely off-putting because they feel obliged to empty their wallets just to start this hobby. For example, when I was starting this hobby, I was barraged with people telling me that you must buy an expensive dslr otherwise there is no point in doing astrophotography, and that it is impossible to photograph deep-sky with a 200p and goto eq5 due to the weight, just after I plunged in and bought it . But yet again, both of these were not the case. I started off with an old canon dslr and a 200p/eq5 from the second hand market at a cheap price, and I was incredibly astonished and pleased with my results. It just goes to show that you don’t need to spend lots to start this wonderful hobby and get great results

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Josh. Yeah I've certainly seen those sorts of messages and comments on forums where apparently the refractor you need is an ED APO and such and when you tally the price tag, the cost of entry is like £6000! I've seen some absolutely fantastic results with an old DSLR and a sky tracker. It's about learning the kit, its limitations and styling your photography around that I think.

[@ToddMargolis]

Thanks for sharing. I'd love to hear more about your mono vs color camera interests. I'm struggling with that decision now too so it would be great to hear more about your experience

[@elvisvelez6609]

I know that this video been out for 2 years but it still is true till this day and i found myself doing the same thing. I realized that if I didn't learn how to use the things that I already had that I'll never be any good with the new ones and it would ultimately make me not appreciate the art and that I also would not enjoy the art. So now days I use my c8 with a HEQ5 pro and a 8" newtonian. I do have a color astro cam but I'm not chasing a better one anytime soon.

[@peterhorrocks12]

Great, honest video. It takes a real strength to own your mistakes and not blame someone else. Kudos to you. And keep up the channel too, I've only just found it.

[@Treasureintheland]

That was a great video, man! You hit the nail right on it's head. Back when I was starting out, I wanted the biggest and the best gear. I didn't have money at the time, but I wanted it sooo bad that I cashed out (call me evil, I suppose) my children's savings accounts to get my gear! I have since then re-filled those accounts as I own my own business now. But, I totally understand what you are saying. It is a real drug! I have also had a few moments where I lost interest in astrophotography, but it always comes back, and I love every moment of it. By you saying the things that you said in this video, my hat is off! This is astro truth at it's finest. Thank you for saying what you did. Cheers!

[@osmose8812]

Astrophotography is a stupid hobby. It is expensive, complicated and its only pissible by good weather conditions. You sit in the car with frozen coffe in the cup and thinkin about the reasons for it. But when everything is good and the rig is working and captures photons you got time to lay on the earth and look up to the stars and think about the earth and the humans and everything calms down. Its the best hobby on this planet. Thanks for your video and the channel. Greetings from germany

[@ScotiaGaidin]

Thanks for being brave enough to share your story here for us! It's always the case with any hobby that it's helpful to have someone reminding you to not jump in too deep too fast. Keep it up big man :D

[@andydungan3335]

Well done, this is a story that needs to be told. One recommendation I would make is don't be too tough on yourself. In so many respects you have learned many valuable lessons (money, how to enjoy the hobby, how to ease into learning the hobby). These lessons are so worth your sharing. I am an old guy and with the exception of the money (I did well enough and saved all my life) what you have said here is so applicable to my journey. I have ended up with a star tracker and having bought a few more lenses (20mm f1.4, 135mm f2 and a 150-600mm zoom). I already was taking pics with a Canon 6D MK II. I have only been in this hobby about a year. Just recently with the 600mm I got a pretty good set of shots of the Orion Nebula. I have learned Affinity Photo (Photoshop for people who aren't willing to pay adobe) enough that I was able to stack the photos along with calibration frames followed by post processing to get the colors out. I am like a little kid being excited about doing that. I have had to learn so much on my own and have watched sooo many videos. Somehow I figured out not to jump in and drown. I almost did. Part of enjoying astro also has been just learning about space. Reading the books and watching the videos is really part of the hobby for me as well. In the end figuring out how not to make it overwhelming is part of figuring out how to enjoy the hobby. So, one final recommendation (and really this is to all the youtubers out there that are helping us) is that you find a way to take the material in this video and put it into a less critical of you format because in the beginning figuring out how to digest astro in a way that fits with your lifestyle and goals (including your wallet) really is part of learning about this hobby and how to enjoy it. As the Aussies say, goodonya.

[@christaylor8414]

Great that you took the time to make this. Astrophotography is pretty difficult, both to learn, and to get right even when you have some experience. From experience, seeing the next shiny object and thinking it'll make things easier isn't necessarily true. If we're honest, there's likely a few of us who've made the same decisions and had buyer's remorse. You're staying true to your hobby. Keep up the good work.

[@AstroFarsography]

Thanks Chris appreciate the words. Yeah, it's so easy sometimes to fall into that part where you get buyers remorse for sure!

[@petef.4361]

This is truth. I am caught in the same cycle where I finance my next astrophotography purchase on 0 interest debt. I'm able to pay it off in time, but I always worry about having some kind of emergency and not having the money to pay for it.

[@OlliesSpace]

Well done here on this video and on being so frank. Totally agree on the mono, I'm quite happy not going there at this stage. Well done on the change in direction, I'm sure it will be a great move all round.👍

[@alanprice9938]

Admire your honesty mate. Even if you help one person think differently and stay in control, it’ll be worth it. For the record, your Astro stuff is great too, a really good part of the community, with a different angle…… even if I wish you’d focus more on the visual side too 😃👍

[@erichfurtwangler9683]

An open statement and so true! As a 12-year-old boy, I was given a small refractor with a wobbly wooden tripod and tiny eyepieces. But I saw Saturn, Jupiter and lunar craters. Today I'm 62, have an 8" Newtonian, EQ6, a concrete column in the garden and control the mount and cameras with WiFi from my room. BUT: The little, incredibly happy and innocent boy who simply discovered the starry sky and wasn't distracted by role models or advertising no longer exists... Greetings from Germany, Erich

[@Robin-Visser]

Man. We all suffer from these moments when inspiration is gone and questions come etc. Great video and brave to tell your story.

[@AstroFarsography]

Yep. Finding those answers can take time for sure. Thanks very much Robin

[@stevengibson9295]

Well done for that video! I don't think you should look back and say "I was stupid". You simply learned from your mistakes, and we know that we all make those. To put this sort of content out there is both brave and insightful. You've recognised an issue that you have had and come to terms with it, and controlled it. Some people are not capable of doing that, let alone are able to share there experience to hopefully benefit others. Hats off to you for doing so. I hope you keep going with the hobby and the great content that you post. Thanks for your channel!

[@metalsandbro]

Well said. I think many of us understand most, if not all, of what you've said. I really appreciate your channel. I've learned a lot from you. And I was super happy you released videos using Affinity Photo on your astrophotography. Photoshop is expensive. Astrophotography isn't cheap either. The pursuit to finding affordable, effective ways to achieve quality astrophotography images can be difficult when starting out. Thank you for helping make that journey easier.

[@whatmattersmost6725]

Great vid, 1 really honest vid I have seen and I fully get you and I think you did the right thing to make this vid! The thing about credit cards is a TRAP that's so easy to fall into!! I see your position as I am in the beginning and really bring it home! Miss your vids and THANK YOU!

[@jcj2249]

I just love the glass of water at the very end of this sequence. Thanks for your honesty. Jean-Claude.

[@jezrougan]

Much respect for sharing you own personal struggles with that must have more kit syndrome, it can be so easy to fall into that trap, especially like you said, when you see others with the latest kit, it can if not checked spiral out of control very quickly... Also the excuses we give for sometimes not getting out imaging... I've had that very same issue, mine was down to not having a good enough pc/laptop for post processing as if I stack more than 20 x 60 megabits files my laptop graphics card just can't handle the load and often freezes up... (program not responding) this in itself put me off even going out trying to capture any image data, whats the point when you can't post process without issues... Also how can one learn how to post process better when this problem still isn't resolved... So like you said, I do it for me now, yeah ill share my images to my Instagram where at most ill get 10 likes, im just happy now pottering along with my limitations an except it for what it is... Clear skies buddy....

[@JeremyTaylorNZ]

I bet that felt really weird to shoot and publish - but good on ya for doing it, it is important stuff that needs to be said 🧡

[@beteljooz6180]

Thank you for the cautionary tale. It's come at a great time for me. I've had telescopes for years, but only recently got into DS astrophotography. And because of the gear I have, I quickly reached their practical limits; 600 frames of 2 seconds each (yes, you read that right - two second exposures) to capture M31 is a lot of wear and tear on a 10-year old camera. So I plan to slowly acquire an EQ tracking mount and its accessories to stretch the limits of my existing gear even further. Thank you for the GIMP processing tutorial of the North American nebula. Your explanation of how to use masks, star masks, etc., was awesome. I hope to soon be able to put it into practice and up my meager skills and produce better finished images.

[@secretstill]

A brave video Ruz. I thiink most of us will recognise many of the feelings you've expressed here. Thanks for sharing and keep on enjoying the stars!

[@HogarthsAstrophotography]

Hey Ruzz, lots of things resonate in this video. Well done for putting it out. Frank and honest

[@astrocarone9671]

Great video man, so many relatable points.

[@ShevillMathers]

My Astro Friend, let me assure you that you are not alone by a country mile. Astrophotography is not the only interest/hobby that quickly becomes a black hole-and us guys know all about ‘black holes’ bottomless pits, just ask a golfer, a yacht owner, and the list is endless. You make a valid point re improving amount/ type of gear will make you a better astrophotographer, sadly, it is gaining experience over time. Buying a better piano did not make me a better player!!. I have two observatories on our large property-both filled with various gear collected and built over 60 odd years, but I went from amateur to professional alongside my medical career. My friend, I hope you quickly overcome this glitch and get back to enjoying what for you should be a fun learning hobby. Greetings from Tasmania Australia- Ex Leeds Pom, Southern Cross Observatory-42 South (since 1968)

[@Astrogator1]

Thanks for sharing. Your videos have given me advice that no one else really mentions, maybe be they are obvious to most people, but if you don’t know then the obvious can trip you up. Been going through a patch of failing motivation, but videos from you, Dylan O’Donnell, Cuiv and many others help as I don’t have access to an Astro club at the moment. Keep up the good work

[@AstroFarsography]

My pleasure Mark. Yeah sometimes the obvious to one person is an eye-opening aspect to another. One thing I've learnt these days is to take nothing for granted!

[@jodyschultz5870]

Respect! I have learnt a lot from your videos. I love the star mask in GIMP one. I guess I got lucky. I never felt the need to sell any of my gear. Like you I started with a solid mount and I do a little of everything. Luna, Jupiter, DSO small and large. I use narrow band and OSC and DSLR but I know there is gear I want that I will never own coz I am never going to spend $13k on a 150 Tak. One of the reasons I never bought gear I did not like was because I spent 6 months listening to people like you before I got anything. At the beginning I thought I needed a powerful scope but after listening I started out with my DSLR and then finally got a WO 81mm refractor and eventually a C9.25 for planets and mosaics and small stuff. Thanks for what you do.

[@gazza9839]

Come on chaps, we can help by watching the ads ! All the best Ruz 🤞🏻

[@CosmuzzAstro]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts mate. Some great advice and thank you for your honesty. I used to do the sub and like watch and started to fall in that YT hole, and getting all stressed about it. I managed to reel my self in early and don't worry too much about it now. If I need a break to do other stuff in life, then I do. Take it easy man and Clear Skies!

[@Katieyhughes]

I take my hat off to you Ruzeen. ❤️ thank you for your honesty and sharing it with us. It’s so easy to get in to debt and so difficult to get back out of it. Our hobby gets us hooked that we tend to fall down that rabbit hole too easily. Well done sir for sharing this with us.