Short version: PRESS THE VIEWFINDER REALLY SNUGGLY AGAINST THE EYE/FOREHEAD.

Long version: I was becoming discouraged with the sharpness of my photos. Camera: Nikon D500; lens: Nikkor 200-500 mm. I had worked hard on my stance, breathing, and handholding skills but my shots still seemed slightly out of focus. Since everything was slightly out of focus, I was pretty sure it was camera shake.

Last week, I came across a short YouTube video by Moose Peterson about how to hold the camera to get sharp photos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_a6XaQ16aaE

and got a great tip that has greatly increased the sharpness of almost all of my photos. In addition to left hand under the balance point of the lens, elbows in tight to the body, and roll (not punch) the finger over the shutter button, he emphasized one factor: PRESS THE VIEWFINDER REALLY SNUGGLY AGAINST THE EYE/FOREHEAD. This anchors the camera to the forehead. Together with the elbows, this adds a third anchor point, essentially creating a tripod. Then snap as you gently exhale...what a difference.

I've implemented this suggestion...holding really firmly against my eye ridge as I focus and shoot. Several UHH members have commented on the sharpness of my most recent shots shared here on the UHH site. If you're not happy with the sharpness of your shots, take a look at the video referenced above and then try Moose's recommendations...especially the one about holding firmly against the eye. Good luck. Hope someone finds this useful.

The moon moves pretty quickly, making long exposures difficult. It is also reflected sunlight, so exposures are more in line with sunny day settings. I have has the most success using remote control software, control my Nikon, a long USB cable (so I can sit inside) and my laptop. I can review each shot on the larger screen and make adjustments as needed. With regard to night photography, my white whale is meteors. I get lots of star trails, but getting lucky enough to have a meteor to cross the path has been a challenge. :-)