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How to Take Pictures of a Lunar Eclipse

Lunar eclipses are a rare natural occurrence that when photographed correctly can create a stunning image. A lunar eclipse happens over an extended period of time when the moon is fully visible, but then slowly becomes obstructed. During this event, the exposure will need to be adjusted as more of the moon moves from being illuminated into the shadow created by the Earth. The exposures will be long enough that will require you to use a tripod.

Things You'll Need

Tripod
Light meter, if your camera does not have one

Instructions

- 1
  Attach your camera to a tripod and either connect a telephoto lens or extend the zoom lens on your camera to its maximum setting.
- 2
  Turn your camera on and set the exposure mode to manual. Direct your camera towards the full moon, take a reading and set your camera to match the light meter. Take a picture.
- 3
  Review the picture to make sure the exposure is correct and that you can see detail in the moon's surface. Write the exposure down or leave the camera set at this exposure. You may need to increase the exposure as the mood moves more into the shadow of the Earth during the eclipse.
- 4
  Take a picture when the moon is fully visible and then take pictures at regular intervals throughout the duration of the eclipse.
- 5
  Reposition the camera as the moon changes its position and adjust the exposure as necessary during the eclipse. A lunar eclipse can last a few hours, and the moon will move.

Photography