Learn how to capture stunning pictures of the moon using an iPhone.
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Get ready for the spectacular “Super Buck Moon,” the first of four consecutive supermoons in 2023, lighting up the sky this weekend.
On Monday, July 3, when the moon is full, the best time to witness its beauty is during moonrise, which coincides with sunset. If you’re in the northern hemisphere, this moon will appear close to the horizon, making it easy to photograph throughout the night before it sets in the southwest at sunrise.
With social media expected to be flooded with full moon images, we have prepared a guide to help you capture the perfect shot using just your smartphone:
1. Be in Position at Moonrise
For the best chance at capturing a full supermoon, be prepared to shoot during moonrise, which only occurs one night each month close to sunset. Professional photographer Mark Lord suggests taking advantage of the fiery skies and interesting cloud formations by positioning yourself during this time when there is more light, making it easier to control exposure when using a smartphone. The moon will initially appear as a muted orange orb in the east and gradually transition to a brighter yellow and then a dazzling white as it rises higher into the sky. Capture it as close to the horizon as possible.
2. Use a Tripod
While it is possible to take a steady shot without a tripod by leaning your smartphone against a window ledge or a wall, investing in a small smartphone tripod will greatly enhance the sharpness of your images. To achieve clarity, it’s essential to have slightly slower shutter speeds, but even the slightest movement can cause blurriness. A tripod provides stability and ensures a precise and sharp shot.
3. Use the ‘Moon Illusion’
The sun and moon occupy just half a degree of the sky, yet our brains perceive them to be larger when they appear next to other objects. This phenomenon, known as the ‘moon illusion,’ makes the full moon appear larger when it is juxtaposed with buildings, trees, mountains, or rocks in the foreground. In order to capture this effect, professional photographer Mark Lord suggests selecting a landmark or natural feature as your focal point or positioning yourself when the moon is near the horizon. This creates a sense of scale and adds depth to your photo.
4. Avoid the Zoom
The supermoon is located at a considerable distance from you, approximately 361,934 kilometers away, and smartphones are not designed for long-range zoom capabilities. Attempting to zoom in on such a distant object, like the moon, may compromise the resolution and quality of your image. Instead, opt for a landscape-style photo with objects and landmarks in the foreground. According to Mark Lord, capturing the full moon through tree branches can create captivating and atmospheric imagery.
5. Embrace Creativity
While capturing an extreme close-up of the full moon through a telescope or a camera with a long lens is not feasible with a smartphone, view this as an opportunity to experiment and create unique photos that stand out from the rest. Mark Lord emphasizes the importance of creativity by suggesting incorporating a person in the foreground, positioning yourself in front of a picturesque tree or building, or capturing church silhouettes for a gothic atmosphere. Consider other creative approaches, such as capturing the moonlight reflecting in a lake or even a puddle, or framing the full moon between two towering buildings.
6. Utilize High Dynamic Range (HDR)
Most iPhones have HDR functionality by default, but you may need to enable “smart HDR” in the settings for some older models. HDR enhances darker areas of your image, which is beneficial when capturing the full moonrise and generally improves the overall visual appeal.
7. Experiment with Settings
When shooting in Night Mode on an iPhone, the device will automatically determine the best settings. However, due to the moon’s brightness, you may find that the default Photo mode suffices. For optimal results, focus on the moon itself by pressing and holding on the screen, allowing the brightness to be adjusted separately for the moon and the surrounding environment. You can also manually control settings, such as experimenting with a low ISO and adjusting the shutter speed to achieve your desired effect. Mark Lord recommends using an ISO of 100 to prevent the moon from appearing overly bright in your photo. As it gets darker, lower the shutter speed to allow more light to reach the camera’s sensor. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect combination of settings.
Wishing you clear skies and unforgettable moments.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
