Moon Photography GuideComplete Tutorial for Stunning Lunar Photos
Master the art of moon photography with our comprehensive guide. Learn the exact camera settings, equipment recommendations, and professional techniques used by astrophotographers worldwide.
📸 From beginner to advanced - settings for every moon phase and event
Camera Settings by Moon Phase
| Moon Phase | ISO | Aperture | Shutter Speed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Moon (Earthshine) | 400-800 | f/2.8-4 | 2-8 seconds | Requires dark skies, capture subtle glow |
| Crescent Moon | 100-200 | f/8-11 | 1/60-1/125s | Great for detail shots, golden hour lighting |
| Half Moon (Quarters) | 100-400 | f/8-11 | 1/125-1/250s | Perfect for crater detail along terminator line |
| Gibbous Moon | 100-200 | f/8-11 | 1/125-1/250s | High detail, balanced lighting across surface |
| Full Moon | 100-200 | f/8-11 | 1/125-1/250s | Bright but flat lighting, add foreground interest |
| Supermoon | 100-200 | f/8-11 | 1/160-1/320s | Extra bright, use faster shutter speeds |
| Lunar Eclipse | 800-3200 | f/4-5.6 | 2-30 seconds | Totality phase, much darker than normal full moon |
Essential Equipment Guide
Essential Camera Gear
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
EssentialFull manual control required
Telephoto Lens (200mm+)
Essential300-600mm ideal for detail shots
Sturdy Tripod
EssentialCarbon fiber preferred for stability
Remote Shutter Release
ImportantPrevents camera shake
Advanced Equipment
Telescope with Camera Adapter
AdvancedFor extreme close-ups
Tracking Mount
AdvancedFor long exposures and time-lapses
Multiple Lenses
Nice to HaveWide angle for landscape, telephoto for detail
Lens Filters
OptionalUV and polarizing filters
Professional Photography Techniques
Focus Techniques
- •Use manual focus set to infinity
- •Fine-tune focus using live view zoom
- •Focus on moon's edge for sharpest results
- •Use single-point autofocus if available
Composition Ideas
- •Include foreground elements for scale
- •Use rule of thirds for moon placement
- •Capture moon rise/set with landmarks
- •Create silhouettes against moon
Timing Strategies
- •Golden hour for warm moon colors
- •Blue hour for balanced exposure
- •Moon illusion strongest near horizon
- •Check weather and atmospheric clarity
Advanced Techniques
- •Bracketing exposures for HDR
- •Focus stacking for maximum sharpness
- •Multiple exposure composites
- •Time-lapse sequences
💡 Pro Tips for Better Moon Photos
Before You Shoot
- •Check moon rise/set times and direction
- •Monitor weather for clear skies
- •Scout locations during daylight
- •Bring extra batteries (cold drains power)
- •Use apps to plan moon alignment with landmarks
During the Shoot
- •Shoot in RAW format for maximum flexibility
- •Take multiple exposures (bracket)
- •Use mirror lock-up to reduce vibration
- •Wait for atmospheric stability
- •Review images on camera LCD for sharpness
🚫 Common Moon Photography Mistakes to Avoid
Technical Mistakes
- ✗Using autofocus in low light
- ✗Overexposing the moon (blown highlights)
- ✗Using too slow shutter speed (motion blur)
- ✗Forgetting to stabilize camera properly
Planning Mistakes
- ✗Not checking moon phase beforehand
- ✗Ignoring weather conditions
- ✗Shooting only when moon is high overhead
- ✗Not considering light pollution effects
⏰ Best Times for Moon Photography
Moonrise
Moon appears largest due to moon illusion. Great for dramatic shots with foreground elements.
High in Sky
Less atmospheric interference. Best for detailed surface shots and crater photography.
Blue Hour
Perfect balance between sky and moon brightness. Ideal for landscape compositions.
2025 Moon Photography Opportunities
Supermoon Photography 2025
Three consecutive supermoons in October, November, and December 2025. Perfect for spectacular close-up shots.
Learn Photography Tips →Eclipse Photography 2025
Two total lunar eclipses creating dramatic Blood Moon photography opportunities in March and September.
Eclipse Camera Settings →Ready to Start Moon Photography?
Check the current moon phase and plan your next photography session. Every lunar cycle offers unique opportunities to capture stunning moon photos.