K100D Super Moon photos problem

[qquake2k]

Hi All,

I've had the K100D Super for about a week now, and so far I really like it. I have the 18-55mm kit lens, and also the Sigma 70-300mm APO lens. I've gotten some amazing shots with the Sigma lens. However, last night I tried taking photos of the moon, and was very disappointed. You can't hardly tell it's the moon. I took a photo right before sundown, and it turned out okay:
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon_111707.jpg
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon_111707_cls.jpg

However, this is what I got last night:
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon1_111707.jpg
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon1_111707_cls.jpg
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon2_111707.jpg
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon3_111707.jpg

I was using the Sigma lens at 300mm, f5.6, 1/2 second exposure. I also tried using a smaller aperture and longer exposure, but that didn't help. I took this photo a few months ago with my Canon S3 IS:
http://www.digitalpens.net/moon_111707/moon.jpg

I expected the digital SLR to take much better photos of the moon. What am I doing wrong? Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.

Jim

[humbertklyka]

As the moon in your picture is blown out, you are using way too long exposure time. The light from the moon is reflected sunlight, so its actually quite bright.

So just reduce the exposure time, and I'm sure you'll do a lot better. If you are interested there are also at least one thread about moon photos, wich conained tips on how to do it. The search button is your friend.

[pas49ras]

For best results, you have to use spot metering for moon pictures. Just make sure the moon is centered in the circle in viewfinder