Comment Post

Re: Photographing prehistoric monuments against the sky by Anonymous on Thursday, 30 December 2004

Kevin,
Thanks for your contributions to the megalithic site re: moonlight photography. I began teaching classes in the subject in 1980, and by now feel that I have perfected the technique to my satisfaction (both analog and digital). Oh, for sure, I am still learning with every new adventure. In fact, I am currently working on an illustrated book on the subject. You might be interested in checking out some of my additional photos:

http://www.tombullock.com/moon/index.html

For your information, the exposures I have settled on for the moon (assuming a clear sky...for higher elevations....eg, 3000m and higher....stop down one-half f-stop) are as follows (assuming 400ASA):

Full: 1/500 @ f11
Gibbous: 1/500 @ f8
Quarter: 1/500 @ f5.6
Crescent: 1/500 @ f4
See the pattern? Pretty easy, and easy to remember in the dark.....

For landscape photography, assuming you want no star trails, using normal lens, 25 seconds is the max. Of course, tripod is essential. There are so many other factors that affect the outcome...this is just the basics.

I look forward to more sharing with you.....
Cheers, Tom
PS: Happy New Year!

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