Recommended settings#
FilterISO 12312-2 solar film / filterOver the front of the lens
ModeManual
Aperturef/8
Shutter1/1000–1/4000 s (filtered)
ISO100
TotalityFilter off: bracket 1/1000 s to 1 sFor corona and prominences
Quick start: Never point a lens at the sun without a certified solar filter — only remove it during totality.
Starting exposures#
Typical scene brightness for this situation is around EV 15. Use these as a first test shot, then check the histogram.
| Aperture | ISO 100 | ISO 400 | ISO 1600 | ISO 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| f/1.4 | too bright | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/2.8 | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright | too bright |
| f/5.6 | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright | too bright |
| f/8 | 1/500 s | 1/2000 s | 1/8000 s | too bright |
| f/11 | 1/250 s | 1/1000 s | 1/4000 s | too bright |
Step by step#
- Fit the solar filter before aiming.
- Focus on sunspots or the sun's edge through the filter.
- Remove the filter only at second contact; refit at third contact.
Gear checklist#
- Certified solar filter
- Long lens
- Tripod
- Eclipse glasses for you
Pro tips#
- Bracket during totality — the corona spans a huge brightness range.
Common mistakes#
- Looking through an optical viewfinder without a filter — permanent eye damage.
Related guides#
Frequently asked questions#
What are the best camera settings for solar eclipse (safely)?
Aperture: f/8 · Shutter: 1/1000–1/4000 s (filtered) · ISO: 100. Never point a lens at the sun without a certified solar filter — only remove it during totality.
What gear do I need for solar eclipse (safely)?
Certified solar filter, Long lens, Tripod, Eclipse glasses for you.
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources