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Before we go on to tell you the different methods of viewing solar eclipses, we really really need to tell you how important it is to take extra care when viewing the sun (Don’t just use your sunnies, or make your own eclipse glasses with photographic film!). Find out more about safety precautions by reading our viewing tips

DIFFERENT METHODS OF VIEWING
SOLAR ECLIPSE
eclipse glasses

SOLAR ECLIPSE GLASSES



Solar Eclipse glasses are convenient and cost effective way of viewing Solar Eclipses. They are readily available, but make sure you get them from a reputable source. You want them to be CE certified to ensure that you get the proper protection (Remember, your eyes are precious and you don’t want to damage them!)

TIP : Can’t get Eclipse glasses in time? Welder’s goggles rated at 14 or higher can also do the job


eclipse glasses

PINHOLE PROJECTION METHOD


The pinhole projection method is the simplest and easiest method of sun observation. All you need is a piece of paper or cardboard with a hole on it. The pinhole only needs to be a couple of millimeters across and should be as round as possible. Try not to leave jagges edges so you are able to see the full shape of the eclipse.

TIP : Natural pinhole effects can be observed during eclipse in a variety of places. The shadow of trees during eclipses can show a myriad of pinhole images. So look out for it!


TELESCOPE WITH SOLAR FILTER

eclipse glasses Lastly, viewing solar eclipses with telescopes can be costly, but is the most gratifying of the three. Just make sure to invest in good solar filters (Remember our safety precaution tips).

For those of you who will be taking pictures, we’ve compiled a list of useful tips and links to learn more about it!


Top Solar Eclipse Photography Tips

1) Good Eclipse Photographs require practice. So make sure you practice for this before the actual eclipse takes place (Don't want to lose out on some good pictures!). Start off by shooting the moon

2) Use a telescope (or telephoto lens) with a long focal length to get good magnification for detailed, close up shots of the eclipse - We recommend to get a telescope with a focal length of at least 500mm (A 500mm focal length scope yields a solar image of 4.5mm on a standard 35mm negative)

3)Make sure your camera is set to manual mode so you are able to control its focus, exposure and white balance settings

4) A portable, light and easy set up is the best for Solar Eclipse Photography. In case you need to relocate in a hurry to escape the clouds. However, invest in a good tripod for greatest stability and minimised vibrations!

5) Get hold of a cable release. You would not be able to take crisp, high-quality close-ups without it. Have a spare just in case.


Our top list of Useful Solar Eclipses Photography links :
1) http://www.mreclipse.com/Totality2/
2) http://www.eclipse-chasers.com/
3) http://photographylife.com/how-to-photograph-a-solar-eclipse
4) http://www.space.com/15730-solar-eclipse-photography-tips.html

BUY YOUR SOLAR ECLIPSE GEAR

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