With the right techniques and a simple smartphone, almost anyone can capture stunning images. And, with the total lunar eclipse on September 7 fast approaching, Oppo Australia product specialist Tadhg Houze, has shared some expert tips to help you “shoot for the moon.”
Stabilise your device
The first rule of moon photography is stability. The slightest shake can turn the moon into a smudge of light, so keeping your phone steady is essential. Resting the device on a tripod, or even bracing it against a railing or wall, will instantly sharpen your results.
Play with exposure
Because the moon is so bright against a dark sky, your camera’s auto settings often overexpose it, leaving you with a white disc. Taking control of exposure is the key to unlocking its character. Lower the exposure until the shadows and craters become visible, and keep ISO low to reduce noise. On the Oppo Find X8 Pro, Pro Mode gives you full manual control of shutter speed and ISO, while Oppo Reno13 devices also allow you to fine-tune in Pro Mode. A few small adjustments make the difference between a flat, overlit circle and a moon that looks alive with texture.
Use zoom wisely
The closer you get, the more the moon reveals its hidden details but the way you zoom matters. On the Reno13 Pro, the dedicated 3.5× optical zoom is your sweet spot, letting you get closer without sacrificing quality. Push beyond that and digital zoom may soften the image. By contrast, the Find X8 Pro is built to go further. Its two periscope telephoto lenses at 3× and 6× bring the moon right into your frame, while Oppo’s AI Telescope Zoom technology enhances the fine details so you capture craters and textures with stunning clarity.
Switch to Night Mode or Pro Mode
Oppo’s Reno and Find Series families are equipped with advanced low-light shooting capabilities, so it pays to use them. Night Mode on the Reno13 Series is designed to balance brightness and detail automatically, with AI Clarity Enhancer stepping in to sharpen the results. If you’re using the Find X8 Pro, Master Mode (its Pro Mode) is where you can really flex your creativity, controlling every aspect of the shot with the option of shooting in RAW, giving you greater post editing options.
Think about framing
A close-up of the moon is always impressive, but framing adds the magic. Position the moon behind tree branches, or let it hang above a skyline to give the photo atmosphere and context. Turning on the grid in your camera settings makes it easy to apply the rule of thirds, so the moon sits just off-centre for a more natural look.
Don’t forget video
Finally, if you’d rather not fuss with manual settings, try recording short clips in Night or Pro Video mode. Capture the changing phases of the eclipse, then trim them into a time-lapse afterwards. The trick to record a striking reel is to keep the phone steady.
