Must See: Astrophotography Captures Breathtaking Images at Southern Illinois Zinnia Field

I have always been fascinated with both photography and the night sky. I feel there is something truly magnificent about the way a photographer can see and capture the beauty in a landscape that the average person may miss.

And the night sky? Well, I've always believed it was magical - especially when you can view it away from the hustle and bustle of city life and light pollution. Being away from manmade lights allows the naked eye to see even more of the stars that shine in the night sky.

*Fun Fact: Once away from light pollution, it takes about 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness, allowing you to better see more of the night sky.*

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Two Southern Illinois photographers, Grant Twiss and John O'Connell captured both the magnificent and the magical in some incredible astrophotography - the art of capturing celestial objects on camera.

The photographs were captured at an adorable orchard in Southern Illinois. Rendleman Orchards grow peaches, nectarines, apples, and veggies that they ship to commercial produce markets across the Midwest and they've been doing it since 1873!

A portion of the orchard is also home to the breathtaking beauty of a zinnia field. Zinnias are a part of the sunflower and daisy family and grow in an array of vibrant colors. They are incredibly beautiful and made a perfect backdrop to the astrophotography captured by John and Grant.

Located along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, Rendleman Orchards is open through October 31st from 9am - 5pm, Monday - Saturday and Noon - 5pm on Sundays. November 1st - December 18th the orchard is open by appointment only, Monday - Friday. Please note the photographs below were taken with special permission as there is no one allowed on the property after 5pm.