{
  "id": 14122165,
  "title": "I used my iPhone to photograph the stars — here are the subtle tweaks that produced stunning results",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/i-used-my-iphone-to-photograph-the-stars-here-are-the-subtle-tweaks",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-13T04:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/i-used-my-iphone-to-photograph-the-stars-here-are-the-subtle-tweaks-that-produced-stunning-results"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The night sky, adorned with stars and constellations, was a sight to behold during a recent camping trip. While capturing these celestial wonders on an iPhone seemed challenging, the experience changed for the better after implementing a few subtle tweaks.\n\nInitially, the attempts to photograph stars yielded only faintly illuminated points of light against a black background. However, after adjusting camera settings and eliminating physical taps on the screen, the results transformed into sharp and detailed nightscapes.\n\nTo achieve these stunning results, follow these steps:\n\n1. Secure your iPhone on a tripod to enable 30-second exposures. While Night Mode on the iPhone restricts exposure time to 10 seconds to prevent handheld blur, locking it on a tripod unlocks the full 30-second Max exposure setting. This extended exposure duration allows the sensor to gather faint starlight and reveal hidden details.\n\n2. Utilize the 1x wide lens and enable RAW mode. The default 1x wide lens, with its largest physical sensor and aperture, is ideal for gathering light. Avoid zooming in or switching to the 0.5x ultra-wide lens, as these smaller sensors produce grainier images. Select RAW format from the six-dot menu or tap the RAW indicator to save uncompressed image data for cleaner editing later.\n\n3. Implement a 3-second timer to eliminate shutter shake. Even on a sturdy tripod, tapping the screen generates micro-vibrations that can blur the final image. A brief countdown allows those vibrations to dissipate before the camera begins capturing, resulting in crisp details. Alternatively, you can trigger the shutter using an Apple Watch Camera Remote app, Voice Control, or the volume button on a pair of wired headphones.\n\nThese simple yet effective adjustments can help anyone capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky using their iPhone, transforming the experience from a mere disappointment to a truly satisfying endeavor.",
  "summary": "Skip the expensive camera gear — adjusting your phone's exposure times, lens settings, and stability is all it takes to capture gorgeous starscapes.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}