How to Photograph the Moon with an iPhone: 5 Tips to Dream Big!

1. Use the powerful tools in the built-in Camera app

If you own an iPhone, here’s some good news right away: you don’t need to download any extra apps. The default Camera app on your iPhone is powerful and versatile. Not only does it offer a handy Night mode, which activates automatically to reduce image noise, but it also includes several advanced tools worthy of a DSLR.

The trick? Learn how it works and make the most of its basic features, such as focus and exposure, to improve the moon photos you take. These simple settings will give you more control over image brightness and help you keep the moon properly in focus.

2. Find a dark place away from artificial lights

Just as when you try to photograph the stars, to get the best results you should shoot as far away as possible from city lights, or at least choose a dark, secluded spot. Ambient light, in fact, interferes with your ability to capture the moon’s sharp details and has a negative impact on the final result.

3. Avoid digital zoom like the plague

Unlike optical zoom, which provides realistic magnification, digital zoom can compromise image quality, so we recommend using it very sparingly. Instead of zooming in, try physically moving closer to your subject or crop the image later using your favourite editing app to preserve the original sharpness.

4. Get creative with night photography apps

Do you feel the built-in app isn’t enough and want something more creative? As Steve Jobs used to say, “there’s an app for that”. Open the App Store and explore the night photography apps available. Some offer advanced features and filters that can enhance your moon photos even further, giving you exactly the creative boost you were looking for.

5. Plan the ideal day for your shoot

As you probably know, the moon goes through different phases throughout the month, which means it appears differently depending on the day you choose to photograph it. So, time to check the calendar! Plan well in advance, keep an eye on the weather forecast, and choose the ideal day based on the lunar phase you want to capture and the best possible conditions.

Can you guess which phase is photographed the most? Of course — the full moon wins hands down! Did you guess right? Now that you know how to photograph the moon with your phone without losing detail or sharpness, how about turning your photos into personalised stickers? Discover our themed albums for yourself — or for truly stellar gifts.