Photographer and Instructor at Capture the Atlas
Hi there! I’m JL Cantabrana, a landscape and astrophotographer with a deep appreciation for capturing the beauty of nature and the night sky. My journey into photography began while studying Interior Design in Madrid, Spain, when I picked up my father’s camera and discovered a passion for visual storytelling that continues to inspire me today.
Over the years, I’ve developed a keen eye for composition and detail, allowing me to blend the connection between man-made structures and the natural world. This approach helps me tell a story in both landscapes and cityscapes that goes beyond just a pretty picture.
Travel has always been a big part of my life, and exploring new places has only deepened my connection to nature. I’m particularly drawn to stormy seascapes and misty mountains—those moody, untamed moments that evoke a raw and powerful energy. Seascapes, in particular, hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of home and adding a personal touch to each shot.
Since moving to Australia, I’ve embraced astrophotography. The night skies here are incredible, and I enjoy the challenge of capturing stars and galaxies in all their glory. It’s become a significant part of my work, and I’m always pushing myself to improve my techniques and explore new ways to capture the cosmos.
As a tour leader with Capture the Atlas, I’m all about helping others find their creative spark and develop their unique style in photography. My tours are hands-on and fun, focusing on learning through experience. I make sure everyone feels supported and comfortable, no matter their skill level, so they can truly enjoy the journey and grow as photographers.
When I’m not leading workshops, you’ll likely find me hiking through Australia’s beautiful landscapes or hitting the bowling lanes in the city. After living abroad for the past 15 years, my curiosity for new cultures and places continues to shape how I see the world.
I’m excited to share my passion for photography with you. Whether we’re capturing the Milky Way or a dramatic landscape, I’ll be right there to guide you. Let’s create some magic under the stars!
Awards & publications
- 2024 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year Astrophotography Category – Runner Up. South Australian Museum
- 2024 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year Landscape Category – Runner Up. South Australian Museum
- 2023 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year Astrophotography Category Finalist. South Australian Museum
- 2023 Astrophotography Category Finalist. Australian Photographic Prize ’23
- 2023 Milky Way Photographer of the Year. Capture The Atlas
- 2023 February’s Nightmaster of the Month. Photopills
- 2022 2x Top 10 Seascape Category. Landscape Photography World Awards
- 2021 Milky Way Photographer of the Year. Capture The Atlas
- 2021 Astrophotographer of the Year People’s Choice Award
My gear
As a landscape and astrophotographer, the right gear is crucial for capturing both dramatic seascapes and the night sky. From cameras and lenses to star trackers and essential accessories, here’s the equipment I trust to bring my creative vision to life:
- Cameras: Canon R5, Canon R8 Astromod
- Lenses: Canon RF 15-35 f2.8, Canon RF 24-105 f4, Canon EF 50 f1.4, Tamron 100-400 f4.5-6.3
- Mounts & Trackers: Benro Polaris
Photo tours I'm leading
1-on-1 photography tutoring sessions
Ready to refine your landscape and astrophotography post-processing skills? In my personalized 1-on-1 sessions, I’ll help you perfect your editing techniques, from balancing light and color to enhancing the details of your landscapes and starry skies. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your compositions in Photoshop or learn how to bring out the best in your night shots, I’ll provide you with expert guidance to elevate your photos and bring your creative vision to life.
My happy students
It’s been a joy to guide so many photographers on their creative journeys. Here’s what they had to say about our time together:
