How to photograph the 2026 total solar eclipse: Get prepared for the astrophotography event of the year

Total solar eclipses offer a unique opportunity for astrophotography that can't be replicated with any other celestial event. These rare events are geographically specific, unfold quickly, and the most spectacular phase, known as totality, lasts only a few minutes or even seconds. During totality, the moon completely covers the sun, causing daylight to fade to twilight, the temperature to drop, shadows to become sharp, and the solar corona to emerge around the moon's silhouette.

Photographing a total solar eclipse requires careful preparation and decision-making to capture memorable images without spending too much time staring at the camera's back.

To photograph a total solar eclipse, you must be within the narrow path of totality, which will move over eastern Greenland, western Iceland, and northern Spain during the 2026 eclipse. The two main approaches are during the partial phases and during totality. During partial phases, you need a certified solar filter to protect your camera and eyes. During totality, the filter must be removed to capture the faint corona.

Safety is paramount when photographing a solar eclipse. Always use proper solar protection for both your camera and your eyes, such as eclipse glasses that comply with the ISO 12312-2 standard or a secure front-mounted solar filter designed for solar imaging. Avoid looking through an optical viewfinder at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun, and use Live View or an electronic viewfinder instead.

Composition is another crucial aspect of eclipse photography. While close-up images of the eclipsed sun are visually stunning, they may not tell the complete story of the eclipse. Consider capturing the eclipse's impact on the surrounding landscape, the changing light, and the reactions of observers. The 2026 eclipse provides an excellent opportunity to photograph both the celestial spectacle and the unique environment in which it occurs.