MaryBeth Kiczenski

Hello, I’m MaryBeth Kiczenski, a photographer, educator, and passionate stargazer.

My journey into photography began quite literally behind the wheel. What started as capturing photos of my modified car with a simple point-and-shoot quickly evolved into years of documenting the fast-paced world of drag racing from the trackside. But in 2018, everything changed. On a whim, I turned my camera skyward to capture the stars and I was instantly hooked!

That first image of the night sky opened a new world for me. I was amazed by what could be captured without high-end gear (though, admittedly, that moment did spark a pretty serious gear obsession!). Since then, I’ve immersed myself in the art and science of astrophotography, combining dreamy visuals with technical precision.

Today, I’m recognized for a soft, ethereal style of nightscape photography that blends storytelling with advanced techniques. From deep-sky imaging using H-alpha filters and star trackers to mastering post-processing in PixInsight, I strive to create visuals that feel otherworldly. My background in animation and digital media (BFA, College for Creative Studies, Detroit) influences my approach to composition, color theory, and visual storytelling.

I also have a deep fascination with space weather and its impact on Earth, our technology, and of course, the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis. Capturing the Northern Lights has become a personal passion.  So much so that I am currently enrolled in Millersville University’s SWEN (Space Weather and Environment) program.  I love sharing the science and beauty of this incredible phenomena through both imagery and education.

As an instructor, I bring a calm, easy-going, yet supportive teaching style that focuses on building confidence and creativity. I believe in meeting students where they are, helping them define their goals, and guiding them toward images they’re proud of. Whether it’s your first night under the stars or you’re working on advanced techniques, I aim to make the process approachable, inspiring, and fun.

Outside of photography, I still own my first love, a heavily modified Eagle Talon, and share my home with two ornery parrots: Mopar, a blue-front Amazon, and Maverick, a hawk-headed parrot. Just kidding, they are mostly fun!

Let’s explore the night sky together chasing stars, stories, and the celestial wonders that remind us how extraordinary our universe truly is.