How to Photograph the Solar Eclipse: The Ultimate Guide and the Essential Filter

A solar eclipse is one of the most spectacular astronomical events, but it also represents one of the greatest challenges for a photographer. Sunlight is so intense that it can cause permanent damage to both your camera sensor and your eyesight.

In this guide, we’ll look at how to photograph a solar eclipse safely, which settings to use, and why the NiSi ND100000 (16.6 Stop) Solar Filter is an essential accessory in your camera bag.

1. Safety First: Why a Standard ND Filter Is Not Enough

Many photographers make the mistake of thinking that a standard ND1000 (10-stop) filter is sufficient.
It is not. To photograph the sun directly, you need a light reduction of at least 16 stops.

Technical note: The sun emits Infrared (IR) and Ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can overheat and melt the aperture blades or damage the sensor, even if the image appears to be correctly exposed.

The required filter must be a dedicated Solar Filter, specifically designed to block not only visible light, but also the UV and IR spectrum.

2. Recommended Gear for Photographing a Solar Eclipse

Telephoto Lens:
To make the sun takes a significant portion of the frame, you’ll need a focal length of at least 300mm or 400mm.

Sturdy Tripod:
Essential for keeping your framing precise throughout the different phases of the eclipse.

NiSi Solar Filter:
A professional solution made with high-quality optical glass.

The Star of the Show: NiSi Solar Filter PRO Nano UV/IR Cut ND100000 (5.0)

The NiSi ND100000 Solar Filter is specifically designed for solar photography. Here are its key strengths:

• 16.6 Stops of light reduction: Perfect exposures even under bright midday sun.
• UV/IR Cut Protection: Actively protects your equipment from extreme heat.
• NiSi Optical Glass: No color cast and maximum sharpness to capture solar spots in detail.
• Nano Coating Treatment: Anti-reflective, water-repellent, and easy to clean.

The NiSi UV/IR 16.6 Stop Solar Filter is available both as a traditional screw-in filter and in the JetMag Pro magnetic version:

• The NiSi screw-in Solar Filter is available in 77mm, 82mm, and 95mm thread sizes.
• The NiSi JetMag Pro Magnetic Solar Filter is available in 82mm and 95mm.

Important:
JetMag Pro magnetic filters require a JetMag Pro adapter ring to be mounted onto the lens, but they can be adapted to multiple lenses using smaller JetMag Pro adapter rings. Choose the size closest to your largest lens diameter. Choose the rings here.

We also recommend using the JetMag Pro caps, so you can leave the adapter ring mounted on the lens while still protecting it with the front cap. You can also add a rear cap to protect the filter when it’s not mounted (one rear cap and one front cap). Choose the caps here.

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3. Camera Settings (Step-by-Step)

Once your NiSi ND100000 filter is mounted, configure your camera as follows:

• Manual Mode (M): For full exposure control.
• ISO 100 (or base ISO): For maximum image quality and minimal noise.
• Aperture: Set between f/8 and f/11 (the lens’ sharpest range).
• Shutter Speed: Usually between 1/500s and 1/2000s.
• Focus: Disable autofocus and use Live View for precise manual focusing on the edge of the solar disc.

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4. Pro Tips for Safe and Unforgettable Shots

Always use a remote shutter release or delayed timer to avoid camera shake.

If you are located within the path of totality, remember that during the brief total eclipse phase the solar filter must be removed to capture the solar corona. However, it must be reattached immediately as soon as the first ray of sunlight reappears (the famous “diamond ring” effect).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Never look directly at the sun, even during a total solar eclipse. Permanent eye damage can occur. Even when viewing the sun through your camera, always make sure the NiSi Solar Filter is mounted.

Conclusion: Choose NiSi Quality

Don’t risk your equipment with cheap solutions or low-quality solar film. Investing in a NiSi filter means choosing both safety and optical excellence.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a standard ND1000 filter for photographing the sun?

No. An ND1000 filter (10 stops) is not dense enough and does not block the harmful UV/IR radiation that can damage your camera sensor.

Can I look at the sun during the eclipse through my camera without a filter?

No! You should only view the sun using a dedicated solar filter mounted on the lens to protect both your eyesight and your camera sensor from permanent damage. Never look directly at the sun through the optical viewfinder or display without a certified solar filter.

Is the NiSi ND100000 filter available in different sizes?

Yes, it is available in several circular thread sizes (77mm, 82mm, and 95mm), as well as in the JetMag Pro magnetic version to be used with the JetMag Pro adapter ring and protected with the dedicated Front Lens Cap.

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Warnings

Please note that this filter is not suitable for direct visual observation of the sun with the naked eye and must only be used for photographic purposes.Inspect the solar filter for any damage before every use by holding it against a strong light source (not the sun). Secure the filter properly by fully screwing it onto the lens.The NiSi Solar Filter is not adequate eye protection for prolonged viewing of the sun or solar eclipses. Never look at the sun, directly or indirectly, without proper eye protection.The solar filter must be installed in front of the camera lens or telescope before attempting alignment with the sun. Point the camera away from the sun while mounting or removing the solar filter.Do not use the optical viewfinder when aligning the camera or telescope with the sun. It is recommended to use the camera’s “Live View” function for alignment and viewing.Never leave the camera unattended where a child or inexperienced adult could point it toward the sun without the filter being properly secured.During use, the filter may absorb solar energy and become hot. Exercise caution when removing it.