Using PhotoPills to Plan the Perfect Moon Shot: An Aperture Abenteuer How-To with Juxtaposed Tides
- Juxtaposed Tides
- Feb 11
- 6 min read
In the realm of photography, where the moon dances elegantly across the night sky, capturing its ethereal beauty is both an art and a science. Picture this: mid-August 2024, a group of moonlit adventurers, armed with their trusty smartphones and using PhotoPills to plan for positioning, set their sights on the stunning backdrop of Pilot Mountain Pinnacle. With tools like All Trails and Google Maps as their map-wielding sidekicks, they're on a mission to immortalize the full moon's celestial embrace.
However, if there's one mantra whispered among aspiring lunar photographers, it's the perceived complexity of PhotoPills. This app, a treasure trove of features, can seem as daunting as the moon's mysterious dark side. But fear not! With a sprinkle of patience and a dash of tech-savvy, this guide will transform the seemingly insurmountable into the utterly manageable, leading you step-by-step through the art of planning a perfect full moon photoshoot. Whether you're a seasoned shutterbug or a curious novice, prepare to embark on a journey where technology meets creativity, and the moon becomes your muse.
Step 1: Install and Familiarize Yourself with Using PhotoPills to Plan
1. Download PhotoPills: Ensure you have the PhotoPills app installed on your smartphone. Familiarize yourself with its interface, including the different tools available (like the Planner, Moon Phase, and Augmented Reality features). The best way to start is to simply dive right in! Start navigating and understanding the different functions and features and play around until you begin to understand the layout.
Another great favor you can do yourself is some light reading on the PhotoPills website, where you will find literally every stitch of information you could possibly use in order to get the maximum use from the app and your photoshoots! Also, in app is a section called PhotoPills Academy; this section is similar to the information available on the website. Both offer extensive information on getting the most out of the app as well as how to shoot different scenarios, including camera settings, etc.
Step 2: Research Moon Phases and Timings
1. Open the Planner:
Launch the PhotoPills app and tap on the "Planner" tool. This is the tool that will allow you to strategize the absolute best spot to shoot the perfect photo from.
2. Set Your Location:
Tap on the map icon to set your location at Pilot Mountain State Park (or wherever you plan to shoot).
You can either search for "Pilot Mountain" or drop a pin on the map where you plan to shoot. This is where you can get really precise with it. You can utilize multiple pins, the red and black ones, with which you can read how far and tall your subject (black pin) is compared to where you are standing/shooting (red pin). You can also see exactly how big the moon will seem compared to the subject, which is one of the coolest tools there is on the lovely PhotoPills application.
3. Choose the Date:
- Set the date to current date (or whichever date you will be shooting on), even getting as specific as exact times.
- We simply looked for the date of the full Sturgeon Blue Supermoon, which we found in the Moon Phase section or calendar view.
4. Check Moonrise and Moon Phase:
- After selecting the date, tap on the moon icon within the Planner. This will show you the moonrise time, moonset time, and moon phase.
- Note the moonrise time (around 8:26 PM) and the moon's azimuth (about 108°). This is the dire information you will want that will leave the guess work at the park gates!
Step 3: Determine the Best Vantage Point
1. Explore the Location:
- Use the "Augmented Reality" feature in PhotoPills to visualize the moon's path in relation to Pilot Mountain Pinnacle. Drag the time loop to see the progression of the moon in the sky as the minutes go by.
- Once on site, point the phone camera towards the horizon where the moon will rise. This helps identify potential compositions with the pinnacle (or any subject) in the foreground. (Don’t forget to calibrate the system; it is very easy! Also, if you use a magnet case, be sure to remove this as it will throw off the calibration process).
2. Scout for Other Compositions:
- We made sure to walk around the Knob Overlook and other nearby areas to find different vantage points (this could be handy for this shoot, or for notes for a potential future shoot).
- Consider factors like foreground elements, framing, and how and where the moon will appear in relation to the pinnacle.
Step 4: Plan Your Equipment
1. Camera Gear:
- Bring your cameras, tripods, and any additional lenses or accessories.
- Ensure your phone is charged and has enough storage for high-resolution images.
2. Settings Preparation:
- Familiarize yourself with the camera settings you'll need to adjust in Pro Mode. If you are new to the game or have ADD and barely any memory room up in the ole brain (like some of us), you may want to jot these notes in your photography notepad.
Step 5: Arrive Early and Set Up
1. Timing:
- Arrive at the location at least 1-2 hours before the moonrise to set up and adjust your composition. And if it is somewhere as beautiful as Pilot Mountain, be sure to get there early so you can enjoy the beautiful trails and stunning sunset shows!
2. Set Up Your Tripod:
- Find your chosen spot and set up your tripod for stability and the perfect vantage.
- Frame your shot according to the compositions you have previously planned.
Step 6: Monitor Conditions
1. Check the Weather:
- Use a weather app to ensure clear skies for optimal visibility.
- Keep an eye on the clouds and adjust your expectations and vantage accordingly.
2. Light Conditions:
- As sunset approaches, monitor how the light changes in the landscape. This will help you adjust your settings for the best exposure.
Step 7: Capture the Shot
1. Focus and Compose:
- Use the camera’s manual focus to ensure both the moon and the pinnacle (subject) are sharp. Zoom in on the moon in the viewfinder to ensure that it is in perfect focus.
- Recompose if necessary, ensuring that the moon is positioned at your desired location in the frame.
2. Take Test Shots:
- Take a few test shots to check exposure and adjust your settings as needed. But also keep in mind that the moon is going to appear to be moving fast in the sky, as we continue our spatial rotations, so you will need to be timely throughout the process. (It’s over before you know it!)
- Review the images to ensure that the moon is well-exposed and the pinnacle (subject) has sufficient detail.
3. Adjust Settings:
- Make adjustments to ISO, shutter speed, and white balance based on the test shots.
- Consider capturing a few different compositions or focal lengths. (But keep in mind, the clock is ticking and the moon is on the move!)
Step 8: Post-Shoot Review
1. Review Captured Images:
- After the shoot, take some time to review your images (and also take a moment to kick back and enjoy the rest of the rise. Really take it in, for at the end of the day, this is the part that is most important!
- Look for compositions that work well and any areas for improvement.
2. Editing:
- Use photo editing software to enhance your images. Adjust brightness, contrast, and colors to bring out the beauty of the moon and the landscape.
Conclusion
By following these detailed steps using the PhotoPills app, we were well-prepared to capture breathtaking images of the full Sturgeon Blue Supermoon at Pilot Mountain Pinnacle (read more about that Aperture Abenteuer here!). Aso, don’t forget to enjoy the process and embrace the beauty of the moment (even if you don’t get the exact shot, you were looking for!).
As the final click of the camera echoed against the whispering winds at Pilot Mountain, the journey of capturing the full Sturgeon Blue Supermoon came to a close. Armed with the insights from our detailed guide and the capabilities of the PhotoPills app, you’ve not only navigated the night sky but also honed your skills in the ever-evolving dance of moonlit photography. Remember, each shot is a steppingstone on your creative journey, a unique blend of preparation and spontaneity. Revel in the satisfaction of a well-planned shoot but also cherish the unexpected moments that unfold under the moon's gentle glow.
As you review your images, adjusting the hues and highlights to bring your vision to life, take a moment to appreciate the experience itself. Whether your photos perfectly capture the moon's majestic rise or offer lessons for next time, each click of the shutter is a testament to your passion and perseverance. So, embrace the beauty of the moment, for it's not just about the perfect shot, but also the memories made along the way. Here's to many more nights under the stars, where the moon guides your lens and your heart.
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