Don’t Shoot the Eclipse

It’s the rarest of events. Look away.

Tonight the North American continent will go dark: Thanks to a solar eclipse, the sun will disappear behind the moon for over two minutes. In some places of the United States, the eclipse will be total—with the sun fully covered.

It’s the rarest of events, and a particular challenge for photographers who want to capture it. Since solar eclipses are so rare, we wanted to put together a guide on how to safely shoot it. But it turns out that shooting it is really risky. The eclipse is as dangerous to your eyes and camera as it is fascinating. And looking at the sun with a naked eye or through a telephoto lens is especially risky. That’s why we’ve decided not to recommend doing it.

The internet will be awash with pictures

We understand the temptation. This might be the only eclipse you will ever get to see in your lifetime. But unless you have specific, professional glasses or filters for your camera lens, our advice is to look away. To let that opportunity pass.

The beauty of digital photography in the year 2017 is that the internet will be awash with professional pictures of the eclipse right after it has happened. Professional photographers who have invested in the right filters will have made captures that are both stunning and safe to watch. Please don’t ruin your equipment or eyes trying to do the same unless you have adequately prepared.

So this time, simply turn around. Look away. Enjoy the surreal effects of the day going dark for a few minutes. And then check the photos online.

Header photo by Dan.