April 8, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse: Photography Tips
Get Ready for the Rare Celestial Event
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be visible across the United States for the first time since 2017.
This special event happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking the sun's bright light.
This is a rare opportunity, and the next one won't be seen in the U.S. until 2044.
During a total solar eclipse, you can see the sun's outer layer, called the corona, which is usually hidden by the sun's bright light.
This makes it a great subject for photographers to capture.
Specialized Equipment and Techniques
Solar filters are essential to safely view and photograph the sun during the partial phases of the eclipse. These filters block the sun's harmful UV and infrared rays.
A sturdy tripod is recommended to keep the camera steady during long exposures.
Using a shutter release or intervalometer can help avoid camera shake when pressing the shutter button.
Bringing extra memory cards and batteries is important in case issues arise during the eclipse.
Wearing eclipse glasses is key to protect your eyes when not shooting through the camera.
Solar Filters For Telescopes, Binoculars and Cameras
For photographers with lenses that have an 82mm filter thread, the Haida 82mm Solar Filter is a great option.
It uses the same high-quality solar film as the Baader and Thousand Oaks filters.
The screw-in design makes it easy to attach and remove during the eclipse.
Haida is known for its precision-engineered photographic filters.
Solar Filters for Smartphones
Includes both a visual filter and a lighter filter for the smartphone camera
Allows you to view the sun and take pictures at the same time
Just a solar filter for the smartphone camera, without a companion app
The filter must be removed during totality to capture images
Paper Solar Eclipse Glasses
Soluna Solar Eclipse Glasses (2 Pack)
These glasses have darkened lenses and a paper material that adapts to the face shape.
They are labeled as Amazon's Choice for safety and are ISO-certified.
Make sure to inspect the lenses for any scratches or defects before use.
Helioclipse Solar Eclipse Glasses (12-Pack)
This 12-pack of paper solar eclipse glasses meets ISO certifications.
The glasses have a bendable material to adapt to different face shapes.
Photographic Approaches
For partial eclipse shots, use a long focal length lens (300mm, 450mm, 600mm, etc.) and spot metering mode. Bracket exposures to ensure proper exposure.
During totality, you can remove the solar filter to capture the sun's corona, but be very careful not to miss the brief window of totality.
Composite images combining a foreground shot without the filter and the eclipse shot with the filter can create dramatic results.
Wide-angle shots capturing the changing environment and people's reactions can make for compelling images.
Master the Photographic Techniques
Photographing the eclipse takes some skill.
Avoid pointing your camera at the sun for too long, as the filter can get hot and damage your equipment.
Remove the filter only during the brief period when the sun is fully covered by the moon.
To capture a dramatic foreground, take one shot without the filter to get the landscape, then use the filter to photograph the eclipse itself.
Carefully edit the two images together for the perfect shot.
Avoid These Mistakes for Successful Solar Eclipse Photography
Don't underestimate or overestimate the traffic, and make sure you have a backup plan. Account for delays and have another location ready to go.
Don't focus too much on being right in the center of the eclipse path - just make sure you're within the area where you can see the full eclipse.
Don't mess up the timing of the different eclipse phases. Research carefully to know exactly when the important moments will happen.
Don't just watch the eclipse through your camera - make sure to experience it with your own eyes too.
Don't forget to take off the special filter on your camera during the short time when the sun is fully covered. That's the only safe time to look at it directly.
Don't look at the eclipse too early without the right eye protection - it can hurt your eyes.
Don't use the camera flash during the full eclipse - it will ruin your photos and bother other people.
Don't forget to bring things like chairs, water, and sunscreen. You'll be outside for a while, so be comfortable and prepared.
Don't just leave right after the full eclipse is over - stick around, watch the partial eclipse too, and enjoy the event.
Explore the Sun's Secrets
As the sun reaches the peak of its 11-year cycle, the corona is expected to be more active, with features like solar flares.
If you’re an experienced photographer, you can use telephoto lenses and editing software to capture the details of the corona. It will give you valuable insights into the sun's behavior.
A Unique Perspective from the Edge of Space
Some students at the University of Southern California are taking eclipse photography to new heights - literally.
They're working on launching a high-altitude balloon to the edge of space, about 100,000 feet up, to photograph the eclipse from this unique vantage point.
This could lead to new scientific discoveries about the moon and solar system.
Capture the Moment
The 2024 total solar eclipse is a rare and amazing sight.
No matter if you are a seasoned astrophotographer or a passionate hobbyist, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.
-Hakan.