How to take the perfect picture of the Super Moon with your smart phone

How to take the perfect picture of the Super Moon with your smart phone

You don't need a fancy camera to get the perfect shot of the Super Moon. Here are a few tips on how to get the perfect shot using just your cellphone.

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BILL INGALLS, NASA

The moon is set to appear 7% larger to the human eye and about 15% brighter than normal. All eyes will be on the moon tonight as the night of the 'Super Moon' has come. 


The next time the moon will appear much brighter and larger will be in the year 2034. So make sure you head on outside tonight to observe this incredible sighting. 


Looking at all the professional National Geographic looking photos doing the rounds on social media we all have Super Moon photo envy.


Photos: Twitter users share images of the supermoon.


Here are a few quick photo cheats to make sure your photos tonight look like they where taken by a professional.


Don't zoom in 

Using the optical zoom on your camera will result in a decrease in photo quality. Rather take the photo without zooming in and when posting it to social media crop the image to make the photo seem as if it is zoomed in.

Use a tripod

Try your best to steady your camera. We suggest using a tripod, but if you can't get your hands on one place your phone on a solid surface like a ledge or windowsill. 

When focusing on an image as such a distance the smallest vibrations on your camera can reduce your image quality. You might even want to set a timer to avoid touching your camera.


Check your focus and white balance

Use your fingers to get the right light balance and focus. You can do this by tapping the screen and holding your finger on the moon to lock the focus on it. This will avoid the autofocus from rather focus on a group of stars around the moon or the trees in the shot for example. You can also slide your figure to lighten or darken the exposure. Professional photographers suggest an underexposure to ensure you light the details.


Enjoy the moment

Don't spend too much time looking at the moon through the lens of your camera. We suggest grabbing a chair and a glass of wine and just enjoy the moment.


Tweet your snaps of the Super Moon and tag us @jacarandafm using the hashtag #BlameItOnTheMoon. 

moon super
super moon image

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