With a partial solar eclipse set to take place above the skies of the UK this week, many people may be eager to jump at the opportunity to snap a picture of the historical moment. While the solar eclipse is taking place on Wednesday, August 12 will likely not happen again for another 60 years or so, there are some key safety tips to keep in mind before you pull out your phone to record the solar eclipse.
Health risks and safety guidance
Guidance from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) highlights that looking into the sky with the naked eye when the solar eclipse is taking place can pose a significant health risk. This is because the transition from darkness to sudden intense brightness from the sun can easily damage the retinas.
As a result, many people are generally advised to use special tools that block out the sun's harmful rays. For phones, cameras, and telescopes, this is pretty much the same rule.
Why camera sensors struggle
Phone cameras and many digital cameras can't always completely capture the full picture of the sun, even during a solar eclipse. This is because the brightness of the sun is usually too much for camera sensors to handle.
Fortunately, though, one easy solution could be to equip your phone or digital camera with a physical lens filter that helps to reduce brightness going into the sensor while still allowing you to get a full picture of the sky. As the solar eclipse is now very close to taking place, there isn't much time to get prepared.
Recommended tools for capturing the eclipse
That's why we've broken down six camera lenses and tools that could help you capture the perfect moment this week...
Absolute Eclipse Solar Filter Sheet
The Absolute Eclipse Solar Filter Sheet is specially designed to go over telescopes, binoculars, and cameras. It is ISO certified from independent testing, ensuring that it's suitable to effectively block out enough light to prevent damage.
Overall, the film blocks 99.9997% of visible light and comes in three sizes out of the box. Users can cut down the sheets provided to ensure they properly fit whatever device they stick them onto.
K&F Concept Phone Solar Lens Filter
The K&F Concept ND1000000 Phone Solar Lens Filter is a clip-on optical accessory designed for photographing solar eclipses with a smartphone. It uses a high-density glass filter that reduces incoming light by 20 stops to protect camera sensors when shooting directly at the sun.
The included press-on mount clips onto most mobile devices to position the filter securely over the phone's camera lenses. Overall, it serves as a simple and durable alternative to DIY solar film sheets for taking basic souvenir photos of solar events.
GENERICO CPL Lens
The GNERICO CPL lens is a lightweight aluminium solar filter attachment designed to fit onto optical devices like telescopes, binoculars, or telephoto camera lenses for safe solar photography and observation. It features protective solar filter material housed inside a durable metal frame, replacing flimsy DIY plastic or cardboard options.
The housing uses adjustable clamping screws to securely fit onto a range of outer lens sizes while preventing light leaks. Overall, it provides an affordable, sturdy solution for capturing images of the sun or viewing solar eclipses through magnifying optics.
AstroEssential SeeStar S50
This 3D-printed attachment is designed to fit telescopes. It features a high-grade Baader AstroSolar safety film built into a custom 3D-printed housing that simply clicks onto the front of the telescope's lens.
Compared to standard stock solar filters, this material claims to deliver higher optical clarity, sharper detail, and improved contrast when imaging the sun. It also includes a protective storage case to keep the delicate filter film safe from damage between observing sessions.
Celestron EclipSmart 8 Inch Solar Filter
This is a dedicated full-aperture solar filter designed specifically for telescopes. It utilises ISO-compliant Solar Safe film that blocks harmful ultraviolet and infrared light to protect both human eyes and sensitive optics during direct solar viewing.
The filter body is styled like a standard lens cap and incorporates adjustable touch-fastener straps to ensure a snug, wind-resistant fit on the telescope tube. Overall, it offers a reliable, safety-certified way to observe sunspots, solar eclipses, and surface details using compatible large-aperture telescopes.
Celestron EclipSmart 6 Inch SCT Solar Filter
This shares similar features as the EclipSmart 8-inch, but comes in a smaller size to fit smaller telescopes. This includes an ISO rating and the ability to block out harmful UV rays, especially during a solar eclipse.
