The moon is a constant source of fascination as well as inspiration. For many centuries, it was the focus of literature, art, and music. The moon is receiving a great deal of attention recently as it is slated to phase into simultaneous eclipsing, blood and super moon conditions. Because of the moon’s unusual activity, many people are quite interested in learning techniques that create outstanding photographs of the moon.
A beautiful photo of the moon requires more than pointing a camera into the clear night sky and pressing a button. The moon is a challenging object to photograph nicely. It is exceptionally far away; it is 238,855 miles (384,400 km) away from Earth. In addition to its considerable distance away from the earth, the moon travels through space at a speed of 2,288 miles per hour (3,683 kilometers per hour) even though we cannot recognize the extreme speed. This speed and distance make taking an acceptable photo of the moon tricky. Here are some essential tips from the professional photographer, Ismail Sirdah on what to do when you are photographing the moon.
Have the Right Equipment
Although the photographic quality available via our cell phones and other point and shoot cameras is continually improving, if you want professional quality images, then you need professional quality equipment.
- A tripod is necessary to get a beautiful shot of the moon. Even if you believe that you have a solid and steady grip on your camera, the tiniest bit of movement amplifies. Without a sturdy base, your images will blur because of the moon’s distance.
- A telephoto lens will allow you to capture the moon clearly. The optimal telephoto lens range is between 300mm and 800mm will give you a detailed image that you will be proud to show to everyone.
- Use a remote trigger to snap your photos. Touching the camera to take a picture will cause a slight vibration. In most cases, this tiny vibration does not affect your image. However, because of the moon’s distance, a small shake is enough to ruin a shot.
Set Yourself Up For Success
Even if you have the perfect equipment, the proper setting for your photo shoot is necessary if you want a memorable moon photo.
- Set your shutter speed to 1/125th per second. You are focusing on an object that is hundreds of thousands of miles away from you. A very fast shutter speed is essential for a good result.
- Turn off image stabilization. This advice may sound counter-intuitive, but once your camera mounts on a tripod an image stabilization any vibration or stabilization feature will create a blurred image.
- Be sure to use manual focus to create a sharp, clear image.
Plan Your Photoshoot
A fantastic photograph begins with proper planning. This is true for all objects that you shoot, but it is especially true when the moon is your subject.
- Familiarize yourself with the moon’s phases as well as the times and locations of these. There are many online sites and apps which can help you plan your shoot.
- Use an original frame for your subject. A simple image of the moon is fine, but the same picture with clever framing is often outstanding.
- Plan to shoot the moon at various times and phases. You can get exceptional images just after moonrise and just before the moon sets. Also, while full moon pictures are lovely, shots of the moon at other phases adds interest and originality to photos.
Regardless of your skill level or your photographic experience, with time, the right equipment, and practice, you can take brilliant photographs of the moon.
