How to photograph the eclipse

If you're planning to photograph the eclipse on Monday, then there are some important things you need to know. Just like your eyes, photographers need to protect their cameras. You'll need a solar filter to go over the camera's lens and your eclipse glasses. Photographing the eclipse without a solar filter can damage the camera's sensor, even on cellphone cameras. The only time you can photograph the phenomenon without a filter is when it reaches full totality — when the moon completely blocks the sun. At this point only, you can remove the filter. But place it back on your camera when totality ends. This is also when you can take off your eclipse glasses to view the sun safely — likewise, be sure to put your glasses back on for protection as the sun begins to re-emerge. You can photograph the eclipse using a variety of camera types, like DSLR or mirrorless, or with cellphones. Some equipment you'll want on eclipse day includes eclipse glasses, a solar filter, a sturdy tripod, a telephoto lens and a remote shutter release or timer. Solar filters can be purchased online from places like B&H Photo and Amazon. There are special ones made for cellphone cameras. You can also make your own filter with a sheet of Mylar or polymer film. A solar filter is different from a neutral-density filter. A neutral density filter is not recommended for photographing the eclipse. A sturdy tripod and a remote shutter release or timer for your camera will help keep the camera steady. Just make sure the tripod can angle the lens up toward the sun. When photographing the sun with the solar filter on, don't look through the viewfinder even with eclipse glasses on. Instead, use the LCD screen on the back of the camera to view it so you're not directly looking at the sun. While you're photographing the eclipse, take the time to step away from the camera. Look up through your eclipse glasses and enjoy the event. Eclipse photography tips Joseph Ritorto, a professional photographer, taught a workshop last month about photographing the eclipse. He offered these tips: • Use a tripod and remote shutter release to minimize camera shake and ensure sharp images • Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of the eclipse • Use a telephoto lens ranging from 200mm to 500mm for close-up photography • Use a wide-angle lens to capture more of the eclipse in your image • Use a solar filter to protect your camera's sensor from damage caused by the sun's intense light • Shoot in RAW format to give yourself more flexibility when editing your photos. Shooting in JPEG format compresses the image, which can reduce the quality of your photos • Don't look directly at the sun through the camera's viewfinder because it can damage your eyes • Don't forget to enjoy the eclipse