So, I figure I will consult this thread before the next eclipse. So I thought I'd write down a few things that I will want to remember:

What I liked:

  • Have a plan for partial eclipse, the transition, and totality. Make sure some of the plan for totality includes just watching it and enjoying.
  • Set alarm for 1 min before totality and before 3rd contact.
  • Have multiple cameras going: close ups with telephoto lens, wide angle lens, and video (on gorillapod).
  • 840 mm was great. Wider would have worked well too. I wouldn't do more focal length unless I had a rock solid equatorial mount.
  • Remote trigger.
  • Have back up lenses and filters. Binoculars with solar filters for partial eclipse.
  • Pick spot where you can see totality that has a crowd (cheering was a nice benefit) but not a mob scene.
  • Go for variety of shots to capture flares (1/100 to 1/1,000 at f/9, ISO 100) and corona (0.4-1/20, f/9, ISO 100).


How I would improve:
  • Improve mount: Travel ballhead and support had vibration.
  • 150-600S focus ring is too sensitive.
  • Hold down trigger for rapid fire shots during 2nd and 3rd contact (diamond ring/bailey's beads).
  • Wide angle camera needs better low EV AF or go with preset MF: M3 had problems focusing during totality.
  • It would be excellent if location could have eclipse at lower angle so landscape can more easily be pulled into image.
  • If using 150-600S + 1.4TC...try dropping to f/10 or f/11 to see if sharpness can be increased.


Anyone else had tips that we should remember?