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

Buy for Your Exact Lens, Not Just Your Camera

Measure the lens-filter thread or front aperture, follow the filter maker's solar-use instructions and make sure the filter attaches securely over the front of the lens. Eclipse glasses are not a substitute for a camera filter. See the NASA safety guidance and the AAS guidance for optical equipment before using it.

Find a Camera Filter

These searches use manufacturers listed by the AAS for optical solar filters. Amazon results and delivery dates change, so verify the exact manufacturer, seller, fit and arrival date before paying.

Search NiSi solar camera filters

Confirm the exact thread diameter, manufacturer instructions and delivery before 12 August.

Check Amazon →

Paid link. Verify the manufacturer and authorised seller before buying.

Search Thousand Oaks camera solar filters

Confirm the filter is designed for your lens, secures over the front and arrives before 12 August.

Check Amazon →

Paid link. Verify the manufacturer and authorised seller before buying.

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

Remember

You can ONLY remove the solar filter during totality (when the Sun is completely covered). For the 2028 annular eclipse, the filter must stay on at ALL times.

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. Rehearse the sequence, automate what you can and leave time to experience it directly. Totality is brief and its duration depends on the eclipse and your exact location.

Need Camera Filters?

Check our recommended solar filters for cameras and smartphones.

View Camera Filters