A full moon from a Vashon Island viewpoint

Photographer: Chester Knapp, Seattle

Photo taken: April 19, Winghaven Park, Vashon Island

Photographer's description: "I was enjoying the evening when a bright full moon rose over Seattle, giving a wonderful show. I was able to get my camera out and set it on some nearby stairs and capture this image. Taken around 9 p.m."

Expert says: "Finding a stable spot to set your camera for a night shot like this is important if you want to maintain the natural moonlight shining on the scene. In low light conditions, a long exposure is necessary. In general, without using a tripod (or stairs!), the subtle shaking of your hands holding the camera during an exposure of 1/60 of a second or longer can cause a photo to become blurry with movement. This image is crisp and beautiful because the photographer knew what to do."

— Jessica Oyanagi,

Seattle Times photo production specialist

weekendphotos. We'll judge the year's best in December (and award a prize). See more photos at seattletimes.com/traveloutdoors.