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Shooting SOLAR ECLIPSE with Canon 300 mm f2.8 L IS lens....how do I add a solar lens

Kzzzzz40
Contributor

Been using this lens for years and LOVE IT, with both the CANON gelatin UV and Polarizing drop in filters (52mm)...I thought it would be easy to purchase either a solar or ND (6-9 stops) or variable ND drop in lens and get ready for the Eclipse (April 8, 2024)....OH NOT THE CASE:

Canon: we don't make one...3rd party only

3rd party all sorts of ND/VND/Solar lens (52 mm) but all SCREW IN (ie like the front of the lens not the back where the drop in filter is (between bayonet and body)....BTW, canon says the face is a 5inch lens (equals 127mm by my math)

I"ve read numerous astronomy/lens users sites and they describe/show a picture of the drop in filter with a screw in lens...(at the same time down the discussion they alert all that it doesn't work, particularly with the V ND lens as its too thick....some wanted to shave it down to fit...OUCH)...

BTW< there are NO Threads on either gelatin/polarizing drop in filters...The cover does pop open on the gelatin/UV but the glass doesn't come out...

B&H wants to sell me a variable size (105-135 solar filter (for use w/ binoculars and telescopes too)...sounds like a patch night likely to produce high quality photos of the big day....

HELP!! Please include pictures of how you do it... This can't be such a problem as i'm told this is one of the top lens (300-600 mm FL) to use to shoot the eclips

1 ACCEPTED SOLUTION

kvbarkley
VIP
VIP

You DO NOT want to use a drop in lens. That exposes the rest of the lens to damage from solar radiation. Instead, get a filter to attach to the front of the lens. I have had good luck with Thousand Oaks Optical.

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ccanada
Administrator
Administrator

@Kzzzzz40 @Kzzzzz40 @ebiggs1 

Canon Explorer of Light, Keith Ladzinski is partnering with the Weather Channel to talk about the upcoming solar eclipse. I thought you all might find this piece interesting. 

Link to Instagram

If you all are looking for inspiration. Check this out. There is also a really great article that talks through prep. I can't wait to see what images you all make. Sadly, I wont be in the path of totality 😞

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