Optical Payload

Photography Guide

Capture one of the longest total solar eclipses of the 21st century. This guide provides recommended equipment, camera settings and field techniques to photograph every stage of the eclipse safely.

Download PDF Guide

Recommended Equipment

Camera

DSLR or Mirrorless Camera

Lens / Telescope

400–800 mm recommended

Solar Filter

ISO 12312-2 Certified

Intervalometer

Recommended

Power

Extra batteries & memory cards

Tripod

Heavy-duty tripod

Recommended Camera Settings

Phase	ISO	Shutter	Aperture
Partial Phase (with solar filter)	100	1/500 – 1/1000	f/8
Diamond Ring	200	1/1000	f/8
Baily's Beads	400	1/2000	f/8
Inner Corona	200	1/125	f/8
Outer Corona	400	1/2 – 2s	f/8

Photography Timeline

Before First Contact

Set manual focus, compose your frame, attach the solar filter and verify camera settings.

Partial Phase

Keep the solar filter attached while photographing the partially eclipsed Sun.

Totality

Remove the solar filter only during totality and photograph the corona, prominences and the darkened sky.

After Totality

Replace the solar filter immediately after totality before continuing photography.

Professional Tips

Photograph in RAW format whenever possible.

Use manual focus instead of autofocus.

Use manual exposure settings.

Practice your workflow before eclipse day.

Avoid changing lenses during totality.

Take time to enjoy the eclipse with your own eyes during totality.

Important Safety Notice

Never remove the solar filter except during totality. Looking at the Sun without proper protection before or after totality can permanently damage your eyesight and camera equipment.