How to Photograph the Lunar Eclipse: Camera Settings for Each Phase

Capturing a lunar eclipse is an unforgettable experience for night sky lovers and photographers alike. But to do it right, your camera settings need to change with each phase of the eclipse. Here’s a quick guide to help you get those magical shots.

🌕 Phase 1: Penumbral Eclipse

In this subtle phase, the Moon only dims slightly.
Settings:

• ISO 100–400

• Shutter Speed: 1/250s

• Aperture: f/5.6–f/8

This is a good time to lock in focus and test exposure settings.

🌗 Phase 2: Partial Eclipse

The Earth’s umbra starts covering the Moon, creating a dramatic shadow.
Settings:

• ISO 400–800

• Shutter Speed: 1/125s–1/250s

• Aperture: f/5.6

Adjust exposure to handle the contrast between light and shadow.

🌑 Phase 3: Total Eclipse

The Moon takes on a red hue as it enters full shadow. This is the trickiest to shoot due to the low light.
Settings:

• ISO 800–3200

• Shutter Speed: 1–2 seconds (use a remote shutter release)

• Aperture: f/2.8–f/4

You’ll need a stable tripod, and bracketing your shots can help you capture the full tonal range.

🌘 Phase 4: Eclipse Exit

As the Moon exits the shadow, reverse your settings back through the previous stages.