Every summer the night sky puts on a show, and July’s full moon is one of the brightest. Whether you’re a casual stargazer or a budding photographer, knowing when the moon rises and where to look makes the experience a lot easier.
The July full moon usually appears in the middle of the month. In 2025 it hits its peak on July 23 at 16:38 UTC. That means most of the western world will see it rise in the early evening and stay high until sunrise.
In the UK, the moon will be above the horizon around 20:00 BST on the night of the 23rd. Look to the southeast after sunset; the moon will climb quickly and dominate the sky. If you’re further east in Europe, you’ll get a few extra minutes of darkness before it appears, while those in the US see it rise later at night, often after midnight.
Clear skies are key. Check the local weather forecast the day before and aim for a spot with low light pollution – a park, a beach, or the countryside works best. Even a rooftop with an unobstructed view can do the trick.
Getting a sharp, detailed shot doesn’t require expensive gear, but a few basics help a lot. Use a tripod to keep the camera steady; the moon moves quickly, so any shake shows up as blur.
Set your camera to manual mode. A good starting point is ISO 100, aperture f/8, and a shutter speed of 1/200 second. Adjust the speed if the moon looks too bright or too dark – you want the details on the lunar surface to pop without washing out.
Use a telephoto lens (200 mm or longer) if you have one. If you only have a kit lens, crop the image later, but expect less detail. Turn off any image stabilization while on a tripod, because it can cause micro‑movements.Take several shots in burst mode. The moon’s brightness can change in an instant, and a quick series gives you options to pick the sharpest frame.
Finally, review the histogram. Aim for a balanced spread without clipping the highlights – you want the moon’s texture, not a solid white blob.
Beyond photos, the July full moon is tied to folklore in many cultures. Some call it the “Sturgeon Moon” because the fish were ready to be caught in summer rivers. Others see it as a good night for setting intentions or simply soaking up the calm.
So mark your calendar, find a dark spot, and give the July full moon a look. Whether you snap a picture or just enjoy the glow, it’s a free night‑time show you won’t want to miss.
July’s full moon, known as the Buck Moon, will appear larger, redder, and lower in the sky than usual this year. This phenomenon is the result of the moon's position, atmospheric effects, and timing. Many skywatchers are preparing for a striking lunar display that is as much about physics as it is about folklore.
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