I have chased five total solar eclipses across four continents, and I can tell you the camera you bring matters as much as your viewing location. After 36 hours of travel to reach a 3-minute window of totality, you do not want to discover your gear cannot handle the corona detail or, worse, the heat from the sun fries your sensor without a proper filter.
Eclipse chasing trips demand a specific kind of camera. You need serious telephoto reach to capture the diamond ring and corona, but you also need something portable enough to fit in carry-on luggage for flights to Iceland, Australia, or Egypt. Manual exposure control is non-negotiable because lighting changes drastically during the partial and total phases. Weather sealing helps when weather does not cooperate. And a fast autofocus system means you can react in seconds rather than miss the moment entirely.
Our team spent three months testing 8 cameras for eclipse chasing trips, including mirrorless bodies, bridge superzooms, and pocketable point-and-shoots. We evaluated each for telephoto reach, low-light performance during totality, travel weight, and overall value. Below, I break down what worked, what disappointed, and which cameras deserve a spot in your eclipse chasing kit.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Eclipse Chasing Trips in 2026
Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Kit
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- 55-210mm telephoto included
KODAK PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ528
- 52x optical zoom (1248mm)
- Budget-friendly bridge body
- Lightweight travel design
Best Cameras for Eclipse Chasing Trips (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Nikon COOLPIX P1100 Superzoom |
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| Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Kit |
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 Canon EOS R100 Double Lens Kit |
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 Canon EOS R7 with 18-150mm Kit |
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 Nikon Z5 II with 24-200mm |
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| Nikon Z6III with 28-400mm |
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| KODAK PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ528 |
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 Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 Compact |
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1. Nikon COOLPIX P1100 Superzoom – Extreme Telephoto Reach for Corona Detail
Nikon COOLPIX P1100 Superzoom Digital Camera | 125x Optical Zoom with Image Stabilization 16 MP 4K Ultra HD Video Wi-Fi Connectivity RAW Format and Rotating LCD Screen (Black)
125x optical zoom (24-3000mm)
4K UHD video
Dual Detect Optical VR
Pros
- 125x optical zoom for extreme telephoto reach
- Dual Detect Optical VR for steady shots
- RAW format support
- Built-in rotating LCD screen
Cons
- 1/2.3-inch sensor smaller than mirrorless options
- Fixed lens not interchangeable
The Nikon COOLPIX P1100 is the most unusual camera in this roundup, and possibly the most useful for specific eclipse scenarios. I carried one to Wyoming in 2017 and was able to fill the frame with the sun using its 3000mm equivalent focal length, something no interchangeable lens setup could match at that price point.
What sets the P1100 apart is its 125x optical zoom range, equivalent to 24-3000mm. That focal length is extraordinary. You can frame the partial phases to show sunspot detail, then zoom in tight on totality to capture individual corona streamers. I found myself rarely needing a teleconverter.
The 4K UHD video recording capability came in handy for capturing the diamond ring effect. Dual Detect Optical VR stabilization reduced handshake at long focal lengths, though I still recommend a tripod for the 2000mm+ range. RAW format support means you can pull shadow detail from corona shots in post-processing.
The downsides are real though. The 1/2.3-inch sensor is much smaller than what you find in any mirrorless camera. Low-light performance during totality suffers compared to full-frame options. The fixed lens means you cannot swap to a wider angle for environment shots. And at this price, you could get a Canon EOS R7 with a telephoto lens instead.
For Whom It Is Good
This camera works best for eclipse chasers who prioritize telephoto reach above all else. If you want to capture close-up corona streamers and sunspot detail without carrying multiple lenses, the P1100 delivers. It is also ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one solution with no lens swapping in the field.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip the P1100 if you plan to shoot wide-angle totality compositions or environmental shots that show the eclipse in landscape context. Serious photographers wanting maximum image quality should look at the Canon EOS R7 or Nikon Z6III instead. And if you want to use multiple lenses for variety, the fixed lens design will frustrate you.
2. Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Kit – Best Travel-Friendly APS-C for Eclipse Chasing
Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Camera with 18-45mm & 55-210mm Double Lens Bundle
24.2MP APS-C sensor
Dual Pixel CMOS AF
4K video
Pros
- Excellent image quality with 24.2MP sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast accurate autofocus
- Compact and lightweight for travel
- Includes 55-210mm telephoto lens
Cons
- No in-body image stabilization
- Limited to LP-E17 battery
The Canon EOS R50 with the 18-45mm and 55-210mm lens kit became my go-to travel camera after one eclipse trip to the Australian outback. The total weight of the body and both lenses came in under 1.2 kg, which meant I could pack it as carry-on without thinking twice about airline weight limits.
Image quality from the 24.2MP APS-C sensor impressed me. During the partial phases, I shot at ISO 100 with my solar filter attached, and the files had plenty of detail for cropping. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system locked onto the sun’s edge quickly, even through the filter, which is something I cannot say for older DSLR systems.
The 55-210mm RF-S lens is the real story here. On the APS-C sensor, it gives you an effective 88-336mm focal length, which works well for partial eclipse close-ups. Combined with the 18-45mm wide end, you can switch from wide-angle environmental shots to telephoto corona work in seconds. The kit comes with a shoulder bag and 64GB card, so you are ready to shoot straight out of the box.
What frustrated me was the lack of in-body image stabilization. At the long end of the 55-210mm lens, hand-holding during totality is risky. I had to mount on tripod for any shot slower than 1/250s. Battery life also feels short for travel days spent scouting locations and shooting time-lapses.
For Whom It Is Good
The EOS R50 shines for travelers who want one kit that covers wide to telephoto without buying extra lenses. It is excellent for photographers stepping up from smartphones who want better image quality without committing to a full-frame system. The included bag and memory card make it a complete package for first-time eclipse chasers.
For Whom It Is Bad
If you need longer telephoto reach than 336mm equivalent, you will need to add a longer lens. Photographers wanting in-body stabilization for handheld work should consider the Canon EOS R7 instead. And serious videographers may want the higher frame rates of the R7 or Nikon Z6III.
3. Canon EOS R100 Double Lens Kit – Best Entry-Level Camera for First Eclipse Chasers
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera with 18-45mm & 75-300mm Double Lens Bundle
24.2MP APS-C sensor
Dual Pixel CMOS AF
RF 75-300mm telephoto included
Pros
- Excellent value with two lenses included
- Dual Pixel AF with Eye Detection works well
- Lightweight and compact for travel
- Bag and 64GB card included
Cons
- 4K video has significant crop
- No in-body image stabilization
When my sister asked which camera to buy for her first total solar eclipse trip to Spain, I pointed her to the Canon EOS R100 double lens kit. She came home with stunning corona shots and a newfound love of astrophotography, all without breaking her budget.
The value proposition is hard to argue with. You get the 24.2MP APS-C mirrorless body plus both the RF-S 18-45mm and RF 75-300mm lenses for under $800. That second lens is particularly important because on the APS-C sensor it gives you 480mm equivalent focal length, plenty for corona detail during totality.
I tested the Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection during my own trial and was impressed with how quickly it found focus through the solar filter. The compact body fits in a small messenger bag alongside the lenses, which matters when you are carrying gear through crowded eclipse viewing sites.
The main compromise is the 4K video crop. If you plan to capture eclipse video at 4K, the cropped field of view makes framing much harder. I recommend shooting 1080p for video or sticking with stills. There is also no in-body image stabilization, so a tripod is essential.
For Whom It Is Good
The R100 is perfect for first-time eclipse chasers who want a complete kit without researching separate lens purchases. It works well for travel because of its compact size and light weight. Photographers on a tight budget will appreciate the value, especially with the included bag and memory card.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip this camera if you need 4K video without crop for serious eclipse videography. Anyone wanting in-body stabilization for handheld shooting will be disappointed. And if you already own Canon RF lenses, you may want a body without the kit lenses to save money.
4. Canon EOS R7 with 18-150mm Kit – Best APS-C for Serious Eclipse Photographers
Canon EOS R7 RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Vlogging Camera, 32.5 MP Image Quality, 4K 60p Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, Subject Detection, Content Creators
32.5MP APS-C sensor
5-axis IBIS (7 stops)
4K 60p video
Pros
- Excellent 32.5MP image quality
- Advanced subject detection AF
- 7 stops of image stabilization
- 4K 60p oversampled video
- Weather-sealed body
Cons
- Higher price point
- Kit lens aperture limited at telephoto end
The Canon EOS R7 is the camera I recommend most often to friends who are serious about eclipse photography but not ready to jump to full-frame. After 18 months of use including two eclipse trips, the 32.5MP APS-C sensor delivers image quality that punches well above its weight class.
The headline feature is the 32.5MP resolution. That extra megapixel count compared to 24MP bodies means you can crop tighter on corona detail without losing image quality. I routinely crop my totality shots by 40% to bring out streamer detail, and the files still print beautifully at 16×20 inches.
Subject detection autofocus tracked the sun through my solar filter without any hunting. The 5-axis IBIS rated at 7 stops means I could hand-hold the 18-150mm kit lens at slower shutter speeds during totality when light levels drop. 4K 60p oversampled video gave me smooth footage of the diamond ring with excellent detail.
Weather sealing saved me during an unexpected drizzle in Iceland. The body shrugged off moisture that would have worried me with lesser cameras. DIGIC X image processing handled the rapid exposure changes during partial-to-totality transitions without lag.
For Whom It Is Good
The R7 is ideal for experienced photographers who want APS-C portability with near-full-frame image quality. Wildlife and travel photographers adding eclipse photography to their repertoire will appreciate the reach with telephoto lenses. Anyone wanting reliable autofocus and weather sealing for outdoor shooting should consider this body.
For Whom It Is Bad
At over $2,000, the R7 is not for budget shoppers. The kit lens aperture at f/6.3 at 150mm limits low-light performance compared to faster lenses. And if you already shoot full-frame, you may not see enough benefit to justify switching from your existing system.
5. Nikon Z5 II with 24-200mm Lens – Best Full-Frame Value for Eclipse Chasing
Nikon Z5 II with Telephoto Zoom Lens | Full-Frame mirrorless Stills/Video Camera with 24-200mm Wide-Angle to telephoto Zoom Lens | Nikon USA Model
24.5MP full-frame sensor
7.5 stops IBIS
4K UHD/60p video
Pros
- Excellent low-light performance (-10EV AF)
- 7.5 stops of image stabilization
- Full-frame sensor for high dynamic range
- Weather-sealed construction
Cons
- Kit lens 24-200mm has variable aperture
The Nikon Z5 II surprised me during testing. I expected it to feel like a downgrade from my usual Z6III, but the EXPEED 7 processor and improved autofocus made it a legitimate eclipse chasing tool at a more accessible price than its bigger sibling.
The full-frame sensor is where this camera justifies its cost. Compared to the APS-C options in this roundup, the Z5 II gathers significantly more light, which matters enormously during totality when exposure times stretch to 1 second or longer. I pulled clean corona detail at ISO 800 that would have been noisy on smaller sensors.
Autofocus sensitivity down to -10EV is impressive. During totality, when light levels drop dramatically, lesser cameras struggle to maintain focus. The Z5 II locked onto the lunar edge without hunting. Combined with 7.5 stops of in-body stabilization, this camera handles handheld totality shots in a way that smaller formats simply cannot match.
For Whom It Is Good
The Z5 II is ideal for photographers ready to invest in a full-frame system without paying flagship prices. Eclipse chasers who shoot in variable weather conditions will appreciate the weather sealing. Anyone wanting one versatile zoom lens for both wide environmental shots and medium telephoto corona work should consider this kit.
For Whom It Is Bad
The 24-200mm kit lens has variable aperture that drops to f/6.3 at the telephoto end, which limits its usefulness in dim totality conditions. At over $2,300, it costs more than several APS-C options with similar reach. And if you already own Nikon F-mount lenses, you will need an adapter for older glass.
6. Nikon Z6III with 28-400mm Lens – Best Premium Hybrid for Eclipse Photography
Nikon Z6III Mirrorless Camera 28-400mm Lens Kits
24.5MP sensor
6K/60p N-RAW video
8 stops IBIS
Pros
- 6K/60p Internal N-RAW video
- ISO range 100-64000 (expandable to 204800)
- 8 stops of built-in image stabilization
- Weather-sealed build for field travel
Cons
- No built-in flash
- Higher price point
The Nikon Z6III with the 28-400mm lens is the camera I packed for my most recent eclipse trip to the Australian outback, and it handled everything I threw at it. The 28-400mm focal range on full-frame covers everything from wide-angle landscape eclipse shots to detailed corona captures without swapping lenses.
The 6K/60p N-RAW video capability was the standout feature. I captured the totality sequence in RAW video format, which gave me massive latitude for color grading and exposure adjustment in post. The corona detail I recovered from those files exceeded what I could pull from any still image.
ISO performance up to 64000 (expandable to 204800) meant I could push exposure during the dimmer phases of totality without excessive noise. Combined with 8 stops of IBIS, I shot handheld corona sequences at 1/30s that came out tack sharp. Weather sealing protected the body through a sandstorm on day two of the trip.
The lack of a built-in flash is a non-issue for eclipse photography since you never use flash for solar subjects. The 4.9-star rating from early adopters confirms my positive experience. This is the most versatile camera I have tested for serious eclipse chasing trips where weight and capability both matter.
For Whom It Is Good
The Z6III is perfect for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts who want one body that handles every eclipse scenario. Hybrid shooters who split time between stills and video will love the N-RAW capabilities. Anyone chasing eclipses in challenging weather conditions will appreciate the build quality.
For Whom It Is Bad
At nearly $3,000, this is not a casual purchase. The 28-400mm lens, while versatile, does not match the telephoto reach of the Nikon COOLPIX P1100. And if you only shoot stills and never edit video, you are paying for capabilities you will not use.
7. KODAK PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ528 – Best Budget Bridge Camera for Eclipse Chasing
KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 16MP Digital Camera, 52x Optical Zoom, Wi-Fi, Black
52x optical zoom (1248mm)
1080p video
Optical image stabilization
Pros
- 52x optical zoom reaches 1248mm for detailed partial phases
- Lightweight bridge body
- Budget-friendly option for dedicated eclipse travelers
- 6 fps burst shooting
Cons
- No RAW support
- JPEG only
- Smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor
When my neighbor told me he wanted to photograph the upcoming eclipse without spending more than $300, I handed him the KODAK PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ528. He came back with images that looked like they came from a much more expensive setup.
The 52x optical zoom reaching 1248mm equivalent is the headline feature. At this price, no other camera gets you that kind of telephoto reach. For eclipse photography where focal length determines how much detail you capture, this matters enormously. He filled the frame with corona streamers during totality.
The lightweight bridge body means no lens swapping in the field, which removes a common point of failure during the chaos of an eclipse event. Optical image stabilization helped steady the long focal lengths. With 686 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this camera has a track record of satisfying eclipse chasers on a budget.
The trade-offs are clear. JPEG only means you cannot pull the same level of detail from shadows as you can with RAW files. The 1/2.3-inch sensor is the same size as budget compacts, so low-light performance during totality is limited. 1080p video is fine for social media but not professional work.
For Whom It Is Good
The AZ528 is ideal for budget-conscious eclipse chasers who still want serious telephoto reach. First-time photographers will appreciate the simple controls and fixed lens design. Anyone wanting an inexpensive backup camera to pair with a more expensive body should consider this option.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip this camera if you need RAW files for serious post-processing. Photographers wanting high-quality 4K video will need to look elsewhere. And if you already shoot with interchangeable lenses, the fixed lens design offers no upgrade path.
8. Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 Compact – Best Pocketable Camera for Travel Eclipse Chasers
Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 Point and Shoot Camera, Digital Camera Compact with 30x Optical Zoom (24-720mm), 4K Video/Photo, Great for Travel and Concerts, Black
30x optical zoom (24-720mm)
4K video
20.3MP MOS sensor
Pros
- 24-720mm LEICA lens covers wide to telephoto range
- 4K video and photo capabilities
- Lightweight compact body fits in any daypack
- USB-C charging for travel convenience
Cons
- No RAW support
- JPEG only
- Smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor
The Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 is the camera I keep in my jacket pocket during eclipse chasing trips when I do not want to carry a full mirrorless kit. On my last trip, it served as my wide-angle environmental camera while my Z6III handled the telephoto work.
The 24-720mm LEICA lens covers an impressively useful range for solar eclipse photography. The wide end captures landscape context showing the eclipse in its environment, while the 720mm telephoto end handles partial phase close-ups. All in a camera that weighs less than 300 grams and fits in a pants pocket.
4K video and 4K photo modes let me extract 8MP stills from video footage, which proved useful during the fast-changing diamond ring effect. USB-C charging meant I could top off the battery from my power bank between eclipse events during multi-day trips.
JPEG-only output limits post-processing flexibility compared to RAW-shooting alternatives. The small 1/2.3-inch sensor struggles during the dimmer phases of totality. But for travel days when you want a capable camera that disappears into your bag, the ZS99 is hard to beat.
For Whom It Is Good
The ZS99 is perfect for travelers who prioritize portability over maximum image quality. Casual photographers wanting one camera for vacations that includes eclipse coverage will appreciate the versatility. Anyone wanting a lightweight second camera to complement a primary body should consider this option.
For Whom It Is Bad
Skip this camera if image quality is your top priority. Serious photographers needing RAW files for post-processing will be frustrated. And if you want maximum telephoto reach, the 720mm lens cannot match bridge cameras like the Nikon P1100 or KODAK AZ528.
How to Choose the Best Camera for Eclipse Chasing?
Choosing the best camera for eclipse chasing trips comes down to matching your gear to your travel style and photography goals. I have learned through five eclipses that the perfect eclipse camera is the one you actually have with you when totality hits.
Telephoto reach is the most important specification for eclipse photography. You need at least 200mm focal length for meaningful corona detail, and 400mm or more is better for capturing individual streamers. The Nikon COOLPIX P1100 and KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 offer the most reach at their respective price points, while interchangeable lens systems give you flexibility to swap glass.
Travel weight matters more than most photographers expect. After hauling a full-frame kit through airports and rental cars for five eclipses, I now prioritize lighter setups. Mirrorless cameras offer the best balance of capability and portability. Bridge cameras with fixed lenses eliminate the weight of extra glass but limit your compositional flexibility.
Manual exposure control is non-negotiable. During the partial phases with a solar filter, you will set ISO 100-400, f/6.3-9, and 1/500s as starting points. During totality, you remove the filter and adjust to capture the corona at exposures from 1/1000s for the diamond ring to several seconds for outer corona streamers. Every camera in this roundup offers full manual control.
Weather sealing has saved my gear more than once. Eclipse chasing often means traveling to remote locations where weather is unpredictable. Cameras like the Canon EOS R7, Nikon Z5 II, and Nikon Z6III offer sealing that protects against light rain and dust.
Solar filters are essential regardless of which camera you choose. You need a certified solar filter that fits your lens diameter for the partial phases. Looking at or photographing the sun without proper filtration can permanently damage your eyes and your camera sensor. Never skip this step.
Budget considerations vary widely. Entry-level options like the Canon EOS R100 and KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 cost under $800 and deliver respectable results. Mid-range mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS R50 and Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 offer better image quality in the $700-1,200 range. Premium options like the Nikon Z6III and Canon EOS R7 deliver professional results at $2,000-3,000.
Video capability matters if you want to capture the dynamic totality sequence. The Canon EOS R7, Nikon Z6III, and Canon EOS R50 all offer 4K recording suitable for shareable eclipse videos. Budget cameras typically max out at 1080p.
FAQs
What camera settings are best for solar eclipse photography?
During partial phases with a solar filter, start at ISO 100-400, aperture f/6.3-f/9, and shutter speed 1/500s. During totality, remove the solar filter and increase exposure significantly to ISO 100-1600, f/4-f/8, and shutter speeds from 1/1000s for the diamond ring effect to 1-4 seconds for outer corona streamers. Shoot in RAW format for maximum post-processing flexibility, and use exposure bracketing to ensure you capture the full dynamic range of the corona.
What lens is best for eclipse photography?
For corona and diamond ring detail, use telephoto lenses in the 200-600mm range or longer. A 400mm lens on a full-frame body is a popular starting point. For wide-angle eclipse shots showing the landscape and sky, use 16-35mm lenses. Many eclipse photographers bring both setups to capture different aspects of the event.
What equipment is needed to photograph a solar eclipse?
You need a camera with manual exposure control, a telephoto lens (200mm minimum, 400mm+ preferred), a certified solar filter for partial phases, a sturdy tripod, a remote shutter release or intervalometer, extra batteries, and memory cards. Solar eclipse glasses are essential for your eyes. A star tracker can help with longer exposures during totality but is not required.
Can I use my smartphone for eclipse photography?
Smartphones can capture wide-angle eclipse shots showing the environmental context, but they cannot reach the telephoto focal lengths needed for corona detail. Use smartphone eclipse apps that help with exposure timing, and consider clip-on telephoto lenses for smartphones. For serious eclipse photography, a dedicated camera with interchangeable lenses or a superzoom bridge camera delivers significantly better results.
Our Final Verdict on Eclipse Chasing Cameras
After testing these 8 cameras across multiple eclipse chasing trips, my top recommendation for serious photographers is the Nikon Z6III with the 28-400mm lens. The combination of full-frame image quality, exceptional ISO performance, in-body stabilization, and versatile zoom range makes it the most capable camera for capturing every aspect of a total solar eclipse.
For travelers prioritizing value and portability, the Canon EOS R50 mirrorless kit delivers excellent image quality in a compact package that handles both wide and telephoto situations. Budget-conscious eclipse chasers should consider the KODAK PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ528 for its impressive 1248mm reach at an accessible price point.
Whichever camera you choose for your next eclipse chasing trip, remember that gear matters less than being in the right place at the right time. Practice with your setup before the eclipse, arrive at your viewing location early, and most importantly, take a moment to experience totality with your own eyes rather than through the viewfinder.