Many people will be grabbing their phones to take a picture of the September 2021 harvest moon. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to capture a great shot of the moon.
There are two reasons. The first is that the moon is far away. Second, unless you have an telephoto lens (which makes it appear closer than it actually is), it will always appear in the frame as a small glowing dot.
Second, night photography is very difficult. Professional cameras can adjust your ISO and sensitivity rating, which allows you to shoot in low light conditions without losing quality.
You can also use your smartphone's camera!
Yes, the short answer is yes. However, I recommend downloading an app to shoot the moon using that app instead of the iPhone's camera. You can increase your sensitivity, which allows you to take pictures in low light. It is important to include another element in the image. For example, you might capture the moon passing by a bridge or mountain. This gives the viewer a better perspective and creates a more interesting picture.
As a plane approaches Louisville International Airport in Kentucky, on Monday 26 April 2021, the rising supermoon silhouettes it. Photograph: Charlie Riedel/AP
These apps may not be the best, so you might be disappointed.
A telephoto lens or zoom lens is required to capture stunning images of the moon. A professional camera, a tripod, and a cable release are essential to trigger the shutter. This will prevent camera shake from pressing the button. This allows you to increase the size and detail of the moon while still keeping the image sharp.
The supermoon rises over Buenos Aires (Argentina) on Monday 26 April 2021 Photograph by Agustn Marcarian/Reuters
Your settings may change depending on how good your camera is. Your ISO setting should be set at 100 to maintain the highest image quality. Raw allows you to have the largest file size possible.
When shooting the moon, aperture is not as important. So aim for f8.
Who gets the best photos of the moon?
This image was taken by Matt Cardy at Glastonbury Tor 2015 and I absolutely love it
On 27 September 2015, the supermoon rises above Glastonbury Tor in England. Photograph: Matt Cardy/Getty Images
Cardy's composition and focal length have created a striking frame. This image looks extraordinary because of the juxtaposition of the moon and the people.
