Design & Style
Solar Eclipse Photography: Settings, Gear, and Safety Tips
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Aug 2, 2021 • 6 min read
An eclipse is one of nature's visual wonders. It begins when the sun seems to acquire a bite in its circumference, a sliver that grows, darkens a portion of the sun's glowing disc, then half, then most of it, until a circular shadow overtakes the sun completely, replacing it with a black disc surrounded by a brilliant halo of fire, the corona. For a moment, day turns to twilight, the temperature drops noticeably, and nature seems to quiet.
As a photographer, you will likely feel compelled to capture this amazing phenomenon if given the chance. You'll need to follow some basic instructions and take precautions to protect your equipment and, more important, your eyesight.