8 Best Cameras to Take Pictures of the Moon: (2024 Reviews & Buying Guide)

Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by Thomas Paine

Do you love to take pictures of the moon?

Here, I have developed some perfect tools to enhance your photography skills.

Capturing stunning images of the moon requires the right camera with specific features.

The best cameras for moon photography typically have high optical zoom or interchangeable lenses, excellent low-light performance, manual settings for exposure control, and image stabilization to reduce camera shake.

Additionally, cameras with large sensors, RAW capability, and support for remote shutter release can greatly enhance lunar photography.

The choice of camera should align with your specific needs and budget, ensuring you can capture the moon’s intricate details and breathtaking beauty.

Which are the Best Cameras to Take Pictures of the Moon?

Here are my recommended top 8 Best Camera Equipment for Moon Photography:-

1. LUMIX S1: (Best Full Frame Mirrorless Camera for Moon Photography)

I got the invitation for a cruise dinner, and luckily, it was time for a full moon.

I got excited and wanted to capture this beautiful view of the full moon on a beach.

I decided to take out my Panasonic LUMIX S1 full-frame mirrorless camera to check my expertise in moon photography.

The full moon, with some songs, made the night more memorable and romantic.

By using this gem, I got the opportunity to capture mesmerizing shots.

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Full Frame Sensor: 

The camera is equipped with a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, providing high-resolution images with excellent detail.

It is part of the L-Mount alliance, allowing you to use a variety of L-Mount lenses from different manufacturers.

This feature allows for advanced colour grading in post-production and is suitable for professional videography.

The camera offers in-body image stabilization for both photos and videos, reducing the impact of camera shake.

The LUMIX S1 provides a broad ISO range, allowing for good low-light performance.

The camera’s high-speed autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging conditions.

This feature provides precise and consistent eye focus for both humans and animals.

Useful for long-exposure photography, it lets you view light accumulation in real time on the LCD.

The LUMIX S1 includes features for creating time-lapse videos and interval shooting sequences.

4k HDR Recording: 

The large touchscreen LCD is highly flexible, allowing for easy composition from various angles.

The LUMIX S1 can capture 4K video with High Dynamic Range (HDR) for enhanced video quality with greater contrast and colour depth.

It features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) for clear and detailed scene composition.

Dual memory card slots offer flexibility and redundancy for storage, supporting both SD and XQD cards.

The camera has a robust and weather-sealed body designed to withstand various environmental conditions.

It supports wireless connectivity for image transfer and remote camera control via the LUMIX Sync app.

It also provides microphone and headphone jacks for professional audio recording.

Conclusion: 

Panasonic LUMIX S1 understands the requirements of the consumers.

It captures the details in every shot and presents them beautifully.

Panasonic has the best qualities to make this camera the best to take pictures of the moon. 

Specs: 

Brand	Panasonic
Autofocus technology of the product	eye detection
Aspect ratio	16:9
Maximum display resolution	6000 x 4000
Sensor size of the image	full frame in 35 mm
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	24.2 MP
Webcam image resolution	24.2 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, color temperature
Duration for self-timer	10 seconds
JPEG quality level	normal

2. Panasonic G85: (Best 4K Digital Camera with Image Stabilization)

My affection towards the moon helps me discover more options for this niche.

I went on a hike and decided to capture some mesmerizing shots of the moon.

I took my Panasonic LUMIX G85, my favorite device.

I camped there and was ready to shoot the moon with some sparkle in the background.

The moon looked like a crystal in that extremely dark sky which looked so romantic.

I got some eye-catching photographs of the moon.

Its results made it the best camera to take photos of the moon. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Incredible Video Recording:

It allows you to capture high-quality 4K video footage, making it suitable for both photography and videography.

The camera comes with a versatile lens with optical image stabilization, providing flexibility for different shooting scenarios.

The camera features a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor for sharp and detailed images.

Mirrorless Design: 

Its mirrorless design makes it compact and lightweight while still delivering impressive image quality.

With a 1260 millimeter lens, captures quicker with the unique hybrid photography performance of a mirrorless camera and almost half the majority of most DSLRs.

The 5-axis image stabilization feature helps reduce the impact of camera shake and allows for sharper images and smoother video.

The LCD screen is touch-sensitive and can be tilted for capturing shots from various angles.

This model comes in a black color option. 

Conclusion: 

With LUMIX G85 you can transform your photographs stunningly.

You can capture the shots of the moon with this little device that gives you every detail of the dark sky.

Get this best device with cutting-edge features to get the moon’s beauty near you. 

Specs: 

Brand	Panasonic
Autofocus technology of the product	eye detection
Aspect ratio	16:9
Maximum display resolution	1040 Pixels
Sensor size of the image	micro four thirds
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	16 MP
Webcam image resolution	16 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, color temperature
Duration for self-timer	10 seconds
JPEG quality level	Fine

3. Nikon Z 6II: (good camera for taking pictures of the moon)

For days I was researching moon photography.

After gathering much information I got my hands on the Nikon Z 6 II.

I researched and got to know about capturing the moon beautifully into the camera at civil twilight, that is the moon right after the golden hour.

I waited for the time with my device to check my expertise in moon photography.

Finally we both camera and I made it to capture the stunning shots.

This camera made me fall in love with the moon.

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Innovative Functions:

The Z 6II features a full-frame 24.5-megapixel CMOS sensor, which provides excellent image quality and low-light performance.

The dual processors enable fast performance, including continuous shooting and video recording.

It can record 4K UHD video at up to 60 frames per second, with 10-bit N-Log and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) support for enhanced color grading.

The camera offers in-body image stabilization for both photo and video, reducing the effects of camera shake.

The Z 6II has a hybrid autofocus system with 273 focus points for precise and fast focusing, even in low light conditions.

It supports high-speed continuous shooting at up to 14 frames per second, making it suitable for action and sports photography.

The camera offers a wide ISO range from 100 to 51,200, expandable up to 204,800, for low-light shooting.

It has dual memory card slots (CFexpress and SD), allowing for extended storage or backup options.

Weather Sealed Body: 

The 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD can be tilted for flexible shooting angles and easy menu navigation.

It offers wireless connectivity for image transfer and remote camera control using the Nikon SnapBridge app.

The camera is designed with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture, allowing for outdoor shooting.

It’s compatible with Nikon’s growing lineup of NIKKOR Z lenses, offering a wide range of creative options.

Conclusion: 

Nikon Z 6II has a strong zoom that helps it stand on top for the best camera to take pictures of the moon.

Get the detail of the object you desire to shoot with its amazing zoom.

It enhances your pictures and captures far-away subjects with clarity. 

Specs: 

Brand	Nikon
Autofocus technology of the product	phase detection
Aspect ratio	21:9
Maximum display resolution	642 Pixels
Sensor size of the image	full frame in 35 mm
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	24.5 MP
Webcam image resolution	24.5 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, color temperature
Duration for self-timer	20 seconds
JPEG quality level	Fine

4. OM-D E-M5 Mark III: (Best Camera for Moon Photography for Beginners)

After finishing high school I did not get the chance to meet my friends.

So we decided to have a bonfire gathering.

I always loved dark skies with glazing stars.

I instantly picked my Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III.

I made all the preparations and spent a mesmerizing night with my friends.

But the most attractive thing was the shining moon in the dark sky.

The moon was extremely bright.

I captured the most alluring shots.

This is the best camera to take pictures of the moon. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Live MOS Sensor:

A MOS sensor camera has a 20.4 MP high resolution with a TruePic processor for images to stimulate quick capturing, a sensitivity spectrum from ISO, and adaptable 4K video shooting capacities.

Excellent for capturing moving objects, the detector and processor mixture also benefits from a high-resolution constant capturing speed of 10 fps for up to 150 straight essential files when functioning with the mechanical shutter.

When capturing with the quiet electronic shutter, this videographing rate can be enhanced to around 30 fps with one-shot AF for up to 23 successive raw frames or 10 fps capturing with constant AF for up to 152 straight raw frames.

If shooting JPEGs, unlimited sequential shooting is probable until there is no storage in the memory card. 

4k Video Recording: 

The sensor also supports shooting both DCI and UHD 4K videos.

When used in DCI, a real 24.00 fps frame rate is utilized, along with IPB compression and a 237 Mb/s bit-rate, and UHD 4K is functional in frame rates.

High-quality 1080p and 720p shooting also helped.

Voice recording is feasible by utilizing the built-in stereo mic, and an outer microphone jack is obtainable to enhance audio shooting quality.

An outer shooting detector is also feasible through HDMI output, which works with 8-bit colour for an incredible colour modification span.

Image Stabilization with 5 Axis:

In-body, sensor-shift picture stabilization enables miscalculating the formation of camera shake with any lens in usage for camera activities that evolve particularly apparent when functioning with telephoto images, macro shots, and extended disclosures.

Similarly, this extraordinary photo stabilization technique functions across five axes to equalize for upright angle swirl, horizontal angle rotation, horizontal transition, vertical shift, and moving camera shake action.

This span of monitored activities performs to the advantage of conventional even image capturing and video capturing, functioning with moving objects more virtually.

Besides, when paired with privileged lenses featuring optical image stabilisation, shake remuneration up to 6.5 stops are feasible.

Conclusion: 

Olympus has the top leading specs to make this a perfect photography tool.

It can enhance your skills with its easy-to-operate functions.

Stunning shots are captured with the Olympus camera. 

Specs: 

Brand	Olympus
Autofocus technology of the product	phase and contrast detection
Aspect ratio	4:3
Maximum display resolution	345667 Pixels
Sensor size of the image	micro four thirds
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	20 MP
Webcam image resolution	20 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, color temperature
Duration for self-timer	12 seconds, 2 seconds
JPEG quality level	Fine

5. Fujifilm X-H2S: (Best Camera to Photograph Blue Moon)

I was scrolling through and got to know about the announcement of the blue moon by NASA.

This news got me excited and urged me to show my photography skills.

I excitedly got my hands on Fujifilm X-H2S for moon photography.

To capture the best shots I stand on my balcony.

I was ready with my tools and when the moon occurred it was worth it.

I admirably used the camera and shot the pictures with perfection! 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Back-Illuminated Sensor:

The X-H2S camera features the 26.1-megapixel, back-illuminated detector.

The fantastic X-Trans array that reduces inaccurate colors, positioning the sensor’s circuitry on an additional layer from the pixels produces excellent picture quality thanks to extended less light capabilities and up to 14 stops of dynamic range.

The updated X-Processor 5, comes with lightning-fast performance for the most obvious problems.

Capable of dealing with huge amounts of data, X-Processor 5 gives next-level performance improvements in video and stills processing capacities and competent autofocus functionality that’s 3x faster than Fujifilm’s preceding X-T4 model.

Influential Video Features: 

Strong features make this camera a unique device – both for hybrid photo makers and professionals.

Up to 90 minutes of shooting can be initially captured with a single battery, at a wide range of resolutions and frame rates.

This produces unparalleled flexibility within the X Series lineup.

In addition, the ability to record a 10-bit ProRes view internally on Type B memory cards gives incredible post-production flexibility, while the X-Trans 5 sensor’s 14-stop dynamic range optimizes the level of photo detail across a fantastically wide exposure range.

Conclusion: 

Get the moon seized in your camera with excellent quality and resolution.

Its up-to-date functionality has made it the best camera to capture pictures of the moon.

This latest addition camera makes the subject appear huge and detailed. 

Specs: 

Brand	Fujifilm
Autofocus technology of the product	phase detection
Aspect ratio	16:9, 1:1, 3:2
Maximum display resolution	1620000 Pixels
Sensor size of the image	APS-C
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	26.16 MP
Webcam image resolution	26.16 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, daylight
Duration for self-timer	2 seconds, 10 seconds
JPEG quality level	Fine

6. Sony Alpha 7 IV: (Best Premium Camera to take Pictures of the Moon)

I always love to do creative stuff to kill my boredom.

During my semester break a great idea came to my mind to do something creative.

I decided to shoot the moon.

For that, I picked Sony Alpha 7 IV which worked beautifully for this niche.

I aimed to capture every aspect of the moon beautifully.

And this camera enables me to capture spectacular shots of the shining moon. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Features:

The Alpha 7 IV boasts a 35.9 x 24.0 mm full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor, delivering excellent image quality with low noise.

This camera offers a high resolution, allowing for detailed and sharp images.

It supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, with 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth for professional video work.

The camera features in-body image stabilization, reducing the impact of the camera shake for sharper photos and videos.

The Alpha 7 IV’s fast and accurate autofocus system is based on 567 phase-detection points, ensuring precise focus.

It can shoot at up to 10 frames per second, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.

With an extended ISO range from 100 to 102,400, expandable to 50-204,800, it handles various lighting conditions.

For both humans and animals, this feature ensures accurate and consistent eye focus.

Design: 

The camera features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a 3-inch tiltable LCD touchscreen for composing shots.

It has dual card slots, supporting both CFexpress Type A and SD cards.

The camera’s robust construction is weather-sealed to withstand challenging conditions.

The Alpha 7 IV offers a notable improvement in battery life compared to its predecessors.

It provides wireless connectivity for image sharing and remote control via the Sony Imaging Edge app.

Also, Features like USB-C, headphone and microphone jacks, and HDMI support for versatile connections.

Conclusion: 

Sony Alpha 7 is a champ for capturing stunning shots with perfect details.

The versatility of this device does wonders in every challenging situation.

With this high-tech camera, you can produce creative shots instantly. 

Specs: 

Brand	Sony
Autofocus technology of the product	eye detection
Aspect ratio	16:9, 1:1, 3:2, 4:3
Maximum display resolution	3840 x 2160
Sensor size of the image	full frame in 35 mm
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	33 MP
Webcam image resolution	33 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, color temperature
Duration for self-timer	10 seconds, 2 seconds
JPEG quality level	Fine

7. EOS-1D X Mark III: (Best Camera for Moon and Stars)

I always loved to capture the moon.

I love how beautiful the crystal-like creatures look in a dark sky.

The study for this niche excited me more to shoot mesmerizing photographs of the moon.

To enhance the beauty of the pictures I chose a Canon EOS-1D camera.

The pictures turned out to be fantastic with excellent details. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Features:

The camera features a full-frame 20.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, optimized for speed and low-light performance.

The dual processors provide fast image processing, enabling high-speed shooting and video recording.

It can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, supporting 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth.

The camera can shoot at an impressive 16 frames per second with the optical viewfinder and up to 20 fps in Live View mode.

It has a wide ISO range, from 100 to 102,400, expandable to 50-819,200, ensuring excellent low-light performance.

The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system provides fast and accurate focusing, especially during Live View and video recording.

The camera features built-in Ethernet for high-speed file transfer and remote shooting, along with Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity. 

Weather-Sealed Design: 

The camera is built to withstand tough conditions with extensive weather sealing.

It has dual CFexpress card slots for fast and reliable storage.

The SuperSpeed USB-C port ensures fast data transfer and charging.

The SuperSpeed USB-C port ensures fast data transfer and charging.

The optical viewfinder is bright and clear, providing an excellent view of the scene.

The LP-E19 battery provides extended shooting capacity.

It supports IPTC metadata tagging for professional workflow management.

The camera offers Gigabit Ethernet for fast wired connections.

Also, Integrated GPS allows for geotagging of images.

Conclusion: 

Canon understands the necessity of the consumer.

To ease photography Canon has come up with this stunning EOS-1D.

It raises the standards of photography and enhances images more beautifully. 

Specs: 

Brand	Canon
Autofocus technology of the product	phase detection, contra, sensor
Aspect ratio	3:2
Maximum display resolution	2100000 Dots
Sensor size of the image	full frame in 35 mm
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	20.1 MP
Webcam image resolution	21.4 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, color temperature
Duration for self-timer	10 seconds, 2 seconds
JPEG quality level	Fine

8. EOS R5: (Best Canon Camera for Moon and Lunar Photography)

The occurrence of the red moon got me excited to capture the moon.

I love how it reflects a new shade.

With consistent tracking, I got to know about the occurrence of the red moon.

To capture some creative shots I got my hands on a Canon EOS R5 camera.

My eyes got stunned by seeing this blood moon.

I grabbed some beautiful shots.

This camera helped me save my worth remembering moments. 

WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE? 

Impressive Video Recording: 

The camera is equipped with a 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, which provides high-resolution images with excellent detail.

The EOS R5 is one of the first cameras to offer 8K video recording at up to 30 frames per second, making it a powerful tool for video content creators.

The DIGIC X processor ensures fast and efficient image processing, resulting in excellent image quality and video performance.

With up to 12 frames per second in mechanical shutter mode, it’s capable of capturing fast-action sequences.

The camera features in-body image stabilization for steady shots, even with non-stabilized lenses.

Canon’s advanced autofocus system offers fast and precise focusing, including eye and face tracking for both humans and animals.

The EOS R5 offers a wide ISO range, allowing for low-light photography without compromising image quality.

It offers wireless connectivity for image transfer and remote camera control through the Canon Camera Connect app.

The camera supports high-speed 5GHz Wi-Fi for faster wireless file transfers.

It supports both HDR PQ (Perceptual Quantization) and Canon Log recording for advanced video workflows.

Weather-Sealed Construction: 

The 3.2-inch vari-angle LCD touchscreen is highly flexible for composing shots from various angles.

The camera’s EVF provides a sharp and detailed view of the scene.

It has dual memory card slots, supporting both CFexpress and SD cards for versatile storage options.

The camera is built to withstand various weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor shooting.

The camera provides a 3.5mm microphone and headphone jacks for professional audio recording.

The inclusion of CFexpress card support ensures fast data writing for high-resolution content.

Conclusion: 

This Canon EOS R5 camera works best for moon photography.

It eases the shooting for photographers.

You can capture stunning shots without any hesitation and grow your passion.

Specs: 

Brand	Canon
Autofocus technology of the product	phase detection
Aspect ratio	1.50:1, 16:9, 4:3
Maximum display resolution	4096 x 2160 at 60 Hz
Sensor size of the image	full frame in 35 mm
Image sensor technology	CMOS
Effective still resolution	35.4 MP
Webcam image resolution	45 MP
Camera flash	hot shoe
White balance settings	Auto, cloudy
Duration for self-timer	10 seconds, 2 seconds
JPEG quality level	normal

Buying Guide:

When selecting a camera for capturing pictures of the moon, you’ll want to consider several factors to ensure you get the best results. Here’s a buying guide to help you choose the right camera for lunar photography:

Zoom and Focal Length:

• Look for a camera with a high optical zoom or interchangeable lenses that can provide the necessary focal length to zoom in on the moon. A focal length of at least 300mm is recommended.

Sensor Size:

• Cameras with larger sensors, such as full-frame or APS-C, tend to capture more detail and offer better low-light performance. A larger sensor can help you capture the moon’s surface with greater clarity.

Low-Light Performance:

• Lunar photography often involves shooting in low-light conditions. Choose a camera with good low-light performance and minimal noise at higher ISO settings.

Manual Settings:

• Ensure the camera has manual settings for exposure control. You’ll need the ability to adjust settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to achieve the desired exposure for the moon.

Image Stabilization:

• Image stabilization, either in the lens or the camera body, can be beneficial for keeping the moon steady in the frame. This is especially important when using longer focal lengths.

Manual Focus Control:

• The ability to manually focus the camera is crucial for achieving sharp lunar images. Look for cameras with precise manual focus capabilities.

Lens Compatibility:

• If you’re considering an interchangeable lens camera, ensure there’s a selection of lenses available that suit lunar photography. Longer telephoto or zoom lenses are ideal.

Ending Paragraph:

We have finalized our discussion about the best cameras to take pictures of the moon. 

Do you guys have experience with the best cameras to take pictures of the moon? 

What are your thoughts on them?

Are you using any camera to take pictures of the moon I haven’t highlighted in this article?

Kindly drop your comments below.

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