How do I photograph the moon with a basic camera and telescope?
Equipment and Setup
You can photograph the Moon with a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a smartphone. For a camera, you need a T-ring and T-adapter to connect it to the telescope. Alternatively, use afocal projection with a smartphone adapter. A sturdy tripod and a tracking mount are helpful but not required for short exposures.
- T-ring matches your camera brand; T-adapter fits the telescope.
- Use a low-power eyepiece for full-disk shots.
- For close-ups, use a Barlow lens or high-power eyepiece.
Camera Settings
The Moon is very bright, so use ISO 100-400 and shutter speeds from 1/125 to 1/500 second. Start with f/10 if using a telescope. Use manual mode and check the histogram; avoid clipping highlights. For smartphones, tap to focus on the Moon and adjust exposure by sliding the sun icon down.
- Use spot metering for accurate exposure.
- Shoot in RAW for more editing flexibility.
- Bracket exposures if unsure.
Focusing and Shooting
Focus is critical. Use live view and zoom in on a crater edge. Adjust focus until sharp. Use a remote shutter or delay to prevent shake. Take multiple shots and pick the best. For video, record a few seconds and stack frames with software like AutoStakkert! or Registax.
- Focus on a high-contrast feature like the terminator.
- Use a Bahtinov mask for precise focus.
- Stacking video frames improves sharpness.
Common mistakes
- Overexposing the Moon; it's brighter than you think.
- Using autofocus, which often fails on the Moon; use manual focus.
- Shooting through a window, which causes blur and reflections.
