ASTRONOMY
Total solar eclipse 2024: can I use my cell phone to take photos?
With the excitement being generated across the country, people are taking their places and hoping to capture a moment in time.
The upcoming total solar eclipse, visible today, Monday 8 April 2024, is generating significant anticipation among astronomy enthusiasts and the general public alike. We even set up a live blog to bring you all the eclipse latest. And for some, one of the most exciting aspects of witnessing this type of astronomical event is capturing the moment to share with friends and family. However, the obvious question arises: is it safe to use a cell phone to take photos during a total solar eclipse? Let’s take a look...
The short answer is yes, but with some important precautions needing to be taken.
Unlike photographing the Sun on a typical day, during a total solar eclipse when the moon will partially then completely cover the solar disk, and this means for a short period of time the intensity of light diminishes considerably, making it safer to observe and photograph the eclipse without risking damage to your equipment or eyes. As we’re always told, it’s dangerous to look directly at the Sun without protection.
How to take eclipse photos with your cell phone
Before aiming your cell phone at the sun during an eclipse, it’s important to take safety measures. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use an appropriate solar filter: Not all filters are created equal. Ensure you use a high-quality solar filter specifically designed for solar observation. Never look directly at the sun through your cellphone camera without a proper solar filter.
- Avoid optical zoom: Using optical zoom on your cellphone can concentrate solar light onto your camera lens, potentially causing permanent damage. Instead, consider taking photos without zoom or use a telescope equipped with an appropriate solar filter to magnify the image.
- Camera settings: Adjust your cellphone camera settings to safely capture the eclipse. Reduce exposure and brightness to prevent overloading the camera sensors.
- Use additional lenses: If you’re using additional lenses for your cellphone, make sure they’re also equipped with proper solar filters to protect your device and your eyes.
- Enjoy the moment: Remember that witnessing a total solar eclipse is a unique and exciting event. Don’t get too caught up in capturing the perfect photo and take a moment to enjoy the cosmic spectacle.
When will the total solar eclipse be over North America?
Below is a summary of some of the key areas across the country and the times that you should be able to catch the spectacle.
- 11:07 am PT - Mazatlán, Mexico
- 12:23 pm CT - Eagle Pass, Texas
- 12:51 pm CT - Little Rock, Arkansas
- 3:06 pm ET - Indianapolis, Indiana
- 3:14 pm ET - Cleveland, Ohio
- 3:18 pm ET - Buffalo, New York
- 3:26 pm ET - Burlington, Vermont
- 3:32 pm ET - New Brunswick, Canada