Total Lunar Eclipse Captured Through the Lenses of the “Shoot The Moon & Stars” Class

Most of the United States offered a rare and stunning sight recently as the night sky played host to a breathtaking total lunar eclipse. With clear skies gracing us through the night around Chicago, we couldn’t have asked for better conditions to witness and photograph this celestial wonder. From its initial moments before midnight to its dramatic conclusion past 4 a.m., the eclipse was a test of patience, skill, and excitement for photography enthusiasts and astronomy lovers alike.

Students and instructors from our “Shoot The Moon & Stars” photography class embraced the challenge and delivered some truly incredible results. Here’s a look at their experiences, techniques, and the one-of-a-kind photos they captured during this awe-inspiring event.

A Clear Night, A Perfect Opportunity

Lunar eclipses don’t happen often, and even when they do, weather conditions can often get in the way. That’s why the clear skies above Chicago were such a gift. The crisp, cool night provided a perfect canvas for the moon’s transformation as it moved through Earth’s shadow.

Whether they were catching the partial phases or reveling in the rich, red hues of totality, every second of the eclipse offered something magical. For those in our “Shoot The Moon & Stars” class, this was not only an opportunity to witness a remarkable astronomical display but also a chance to test out the tips and techniques they’d been honing throughout the course.

A Test of Technique and Patience

Capturing the beauty of a lunar eclipse is no easy feat, especially when the event stretches over several hours. But the students showed up prepared, armed with tripods, wide-angle and telephoto lenses, and a shared determination to get the perfect shot.

With guidance from our Instructors, Gerri Whitley and Nick Sinnott, everyone focused on:

• Using a longer exposure than usual to capture the moon’s delicate details during its dimmest moments.
• Adjusting the ISO settings to handle fluctuating light levels as the eclipse progressed.
• Composing shots that incorporated the city, sculptures, nature, or other items, creating unique takes on the lunar event.

The Photos That Speak for Themselves

We could spend hours talking about how rewarding the experience was, but the results truly speak for themselves. Below are a few standout images from our passionate photographers—it’s amazing to see the eclipse from so many creative perspectives!

Not Just A Chicago Thing

Students were not only in Chicago but scattered around the United States capturing the event from Montreal, New Jersey, Texas to Hawaii. With the class online, it provides for students to contact from all regions of the globe.

An Incredible Night for Astronomy and Photography

The lunar eclipse wasn’t just an event; it was a powerful reminder of the beauty that exists when art meets science. The camaraderie shared among the students and instructors, paired with Chicago’s night sky, made this a moment to remember.

For those who missed it, don’t worry! The night sky consistently offers opportunities for stargazing and astrophotography if you know where to look. To our students, thank you for joining us on this experience and for sharing your incredible talents and perspectives!

Want to Capture Your Own Stellar Shots?

If the idea of photographing celestial phenomena excites you, mark your calendar for December 2025 when we open registrations for the “2026 Shoot The Moon & Stars” class. Whether you’re new to photography or looking to polish your skills in astro-imagery, our instructors will help you turn your passion into frame-worthy images.

The Instructors Captured Some Great Shots As Well