Deer Moon: Tips for photographing July's full moon
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The July full moon, known as the "Deer Moon," will be visible from July 28 to July 30, peaking on July 29.
- While the peak occurs during daylight hours in Mexico, the best viewing time will be shortly after sunset.
- Practical tips for photographing the moon include using a tripod, manual camera settings, and adjusting ISO and shutter speed.
Stargazers can anticipate the "Deer Moon," the full moon of July, gracing the night sky from July 28 to July 30. This celestial event marks the second full moon of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, promising to illuminate the warm, short nights for several consecutive days.
According to astronomy portal Star Walk, the Deer Moon will reach its peak illumination on Wednesday, July 29, at 8:36 AM Central Mexico Time. Although the brightest phase will occur during daylight hours in Mexico, experts recommend observing the moon after sunset for the best experience. In Mexico City, for instance, optimal viewing is expected around 7:34 PM.
The Deer Moon is expected to be clearly visible across Mexico, weather permitting. For those hoping to capture its beauty, NASA-recommended photography tips include using a tripod for stability, especially with telephoto lenses. It's advised to switch cameras to manual mode and manually focus on the moon.
For smartphone users, pressing and holding the screen on the moon area can lock the focus. Camera settings suggestions include an ISO between 100 and 400 to minimize image noise and adjusting the shutter speed based on available light, starting around 1/100 and fine-tuning as needed. The article reminds observers that a full moon is not a fleeting phenomenon, encouraging them to experiment with settings and enjoy the moment.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.