Get your camera ready for a spectacle, because this Sunday is a "supermoon." No, this doesn't mean the moon dons a cape and mask and becomes a super hero with powers. But, it does mean Sunday's lunar orbit will be the closest to Earth this year. That's approximately 221,300 miles for those of you keeping track at home. In fact, it won't be this big again until fall of 2014. Granted, it will be a sight to behold, so AnnArbor.com photographers have compiled a list of camera tips to help.
If the weather cooperates Ann Arborites should get a good glimpse of the 'supermoon' on Sunday.
Photo By: Raja Singh
1) According to timeanddate.com, the supermoon will be full at 7:33 a.m. ET on Sunday. However, at this time of day, the moon will be high in the bright sky and most likely not colorful. A smart photographer would get a picture the night before when the moon rises just above the horizon. Technically, the moon won't be full but it will appear to be so. That will be our little secret, shhhh. We recommend being prepared to start shooting 9 p.m. ET on Saturday. The moon will be completely in the sky by 9:25 p.m.
2) Use a DSLR (Single-Lens Reflex) if available. You're going to want zoom capability along with exposure control on this one. The point-and-shoot camera from your sorority days might not cut it.
3) If you have access to an SLR, grab your most expensive lens and a tripod. Regardless of the time of day, you will want optimal stability. Even if you have been hitting the gym and sculpting your bicep muscles, grab a tripod stud.
4) Obtaining the correct exposure will be tricky. Because the moon is a reflector, your camera settings will require some tweaking. First, go ahead and set the aperture to the largest depth-of-field (~f/22). This will grant you the sharpest detail. If you can, limit the ambient light in the area. Get away from the city, turn off televisions, Christmas trees and other light sources. Make sure your ISO is as low as possible and snap a couple pictures until you find the correct exposure. Finally, set the image quality to high (i.e. Jpeg fine or raw). It would be a good idea to clean your lens, as well.
5) There are two ways to capture this image. Filling the frame with the moon. Or, choose a scene-setter or frame of reference. We suggest the latter. By all means, if you own a 400mm with a teleconverter, break that bad boy out and have at it. If not, choose a secluded area looking over the Ann Arbor skyline, or a river, or shoot through tree branches or light cloud cover. All are good options.
Share your photos of the supermoon using the form below or using the hashtag #A2photos on Instagram or Twitter and we may feature it here on AnnArbor.com