How to Photograph a Solar Eclipse

A complete guide to capturing stunning eclipse photos, from smartphone snapshots to professional DSLR setups.

Essential Equipment

• Camera — Any camera with manual exposure control (DSLR, mirrorless, or advanced compact)
• Telephoto lens — 200mm minimum, 400-600mm ideal for frame-filling shots
• Solar filter — Required for all partial phases (see our filter guide)
• Sturdy tripod — Essential for long focal lengths
• Remote shutter release — Minimizes camera shake
• Extra batteries and memory cards — You don't want to run out mid-eclipse

Camera Settings for Each Phase

Partial Phases (with solar filter)

• ISO 100-200
• f/8 to f/11
• Shutter speed: 1/250 to 1/1000 (bracket exposures)
• Manual focus set to infinity
• Shoot RAW for maximum flexibility

Totality (filter REMOVED — total eclipses only)

• ISO 200-800
• f/5.6 to f/8
• Bracket exposures from 1/1000 to 1 second to capture corona detail
• Use burst mode during diamond ring effect

Smartphone Tips

• Use a smartphone solar filter clip
• Use the manual/pro mode if available
• Lock focus and exposure before the eclipse begins
• Consider shooting video during totality instead of photos
• Don't zoom digitally — crop later for better quality

The #1 Tip from Experienced Eclipse Chasers

Don't spend the entire eclipse behind your camera. Totality is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no photo can fully capture. Set up your camera on auto-bracket, press the shutter, and then look up. Experience it with your own eyes. The 2-4 minutes of totality will be over before you know it.