ASTRO IMAGING with LEE “BIG DADDY” SKROBOT
IN PERSON MEETING ONLY
Location:
Cox Science Center STEM Building
4800 Dreher Trail North
West Palm Beach, FL 33405
Recommend set GPS for Palm Beach Zoo
off of Summit Boulevard and follow our yard signs on Dreher Trail North
Schedule:
Tuesday, August 19, 2025
6:30 pm to 7:00 pm Social Time
7:00 pm to 8:30 pm Class
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Have you ever gazed up into a crisp, clear night sky and wondered about the mysteries waiting to be discovered? Join Lee "Big Daddy" Skrobot on an exhilarating journey through the universe as he guides you in capturing and creating stunning images of Deep Space Targets (DST).
Lee's astrophotography adventure began with an ambitious attempt to capture Haley’s Comet on film in 1985—a humble start that ignited a lifelong curiosity. Decades later, during the quiet solitude of COVID isolation, Comet NeoWise rekindled his passion and sparked a dedicated pursuit of the night sky. Now, after five years immersed in astrophotography, Lee is excited to share his knowledge and experiences with you.
In this dynamic and interactive program, Lee will introduce you to astrophotography using equipment you likely already have in your photography studio. Start by learning how to capture breathtaking images of the Milky Way, and then advance step-by-step to photographing more challenging Deep Space Targets. Lee will guide you from using basic DSLR or mirrorless cameras on stationary tripods for short exposures, to specialized astroimaging cameras mounted on tracking systems for stunning long-exposure shots.
Once you've collected your images, Lee will walk you through essential image-processing techniques using specialized astrophotography software. Discover how to refine your captures, enhance intricate details, and create stunning final images ready to amaze and inspire others.
Throughout the program, Lee will also share valuable tips, tricks, and resources he’s discovered to elevate your astrophotography processing skills, including his favorite websites and online communities.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable exploration of the cosmos—your astrophotography adventure awaits!
LEE “BIG DADDY” SKROBOT BIO
Lee “Big Daddy” Skrobot is an acclaimed outdoor photographer renowned for his breathtaking work in wildlife, landscapes, and astroimaging. His journey into photography began at just 16, when receiving his first camera ignited a lifelong passion for capturing the raw beauty of the natural world.
Lee holds the Florida Degree of Photographic Excellence (FDPE) and the Master of Photography (M.Photog.) designation from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA)—accolades that reflect his technical skill and artistic vision. His imagery has earned both national and international recognition, including the prestigious honor of representing Team USA at the 2024 World Photographic Cup, widely considered the “Olympics of Photography.”
A highly decorated artist, Lee is a two-time Diamond Photographer of the Year (2021, 2022), a Grand Imaging Award (GIA) finalist (2022, 2023), and recipient of the Imaging Excellence Award, with 13 images accepted into the Loan/Imaging Excellence Collection. He also earned gold and silver levels at the 2024 International Photographic Competition (IPC), Images selected as Image of Distention with the American Society of Photographers and is a two-time Fuji Masterpiece Award winner with numerous first-place finishes across top-tier competitions.
Lee's expertise in astroimaging was further recognized in October 2024, when one of his astrophotographs was featured as Image of the Month in Astronomy Now magazine—cementing his place as a leading voice in both outdoor and night-sky photography.
Despite the awards, Lee believes the real reward is sharing the beauty he finds with others. Through his work and mentoring, he hopes to encourage people to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the wild, the vast universe, and the moments that often go unnoticed.
