Stages of the 2024 Solar Eclipse | Lloyd Thomas
The 2024 solar eclipse was an event I had been eagerly anticipating. It's a celestial spectacle that offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the moon casting its shadow over the Earth, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and darkness. Determined to capture this momentous occasion, I set out with an affordable camera setup that delivered incredible results. Here’s how I did it.
The Gear
My camera arsenal for this shoot included a Sony Alpha a5100 mirrorless and a Tamron 60-300mm manual lens, a combination that proved to be both versatile and budget-friendly. To ensure stability and precision during the shoot, I used a K&F Concept tripod. Additionally, I incorporated a Hoya R72 infrared filter and a Fotodiox adapter to attach the lens to the camera. All in all, this setup cost me just under $700 (CAD) for the lens, camera, tripod adapter and filter, making it an excellent option for those on a tight budget.
Overcoming Challenges
On the day of the eclipse, I faced a significant challenge - cloudy skies. However, the infrared filter I used turned out to be a game-changer. It allowed the camera to capture the eclipse's light piercing through the clouds, resulting in some truly unique and ethereal shots.
Technique and Settings
Preparation was key to getting the shots I wanted. The day before the eclipse, I tested my setup by taking photos of the sun to ensure everything was working correctly. I set a 2-second timer on the camera, giving it time to stabilize after pressing the shutter button, which eliminated any potential blurriness caused by camera movement.
Safety First
One crucial lesson I learned was the importance of using a solar filter to protect your camera. Unfortunately, I didn’t have one, putting my camera at risk of damage. If you're planning to photograph solar events, investing in a solar filter is pretty much non-negotiable. Another important thing to remember is you need to protect your eyes, ISO rated eclipse glasses are a must.
Tips for Aspiring Astrophotographers
If you're new to astrophotography and working with a limited budget, here are a few tips to get you started:
Second-hand Equipment: Consider buying second-hand lenses and cameras. You can find quality gear at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to experiment without breaking the bank.
Practice Makes Perfect: Before the big day, spend time practicing with your equipment. Familiarize yourself with the settings and techniques to ensure you’re ready when the moment arrives.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety when photographing celestial events. Use proper filters and protective gear to safeguard your equipment and eyesight.
Final Thoughts
Capturing the 2024 solar eclipse was an incredible experience, made even more special by the affordable camera setup I used. With a bit of creativity, preparation, and caution, anyone can capture breathtaking shots of celestial events without splurging on expensive equipment.
Photography by Lloyd Thomas