Chasing a total solar eclipse is one of the most thrilling experiences a photographer can have. You travel thousands of miles, battle unpredictable weather, and wait hours for a spectacle that lasts maybe two to four minutes. The right camera makes all the difference between capturing that moment and watching it slip away.
Our team has spent years photographing celestial events, and we know firsthand how stressful it is to choose gear that balances image quality with travel portability. Eclipse chasing travel demands cameras that survive bumpy flights, long hikes to remote viewing spots, and rapid setup when totality hits without warning. That is a very different shopping list from everyday photography.
In this guide, we cover the best cameras for eclipse chasing travel in 2026, focusing on real-world portability, zoom reach for solar detail, and manual controls you need during totality. We have included options from beginner-friendly budget picks to serious DSLR and mirrorless setups. Whether you are flying to the path of totality or driving across state lines, these four cameras will help you bring home images you will treasure forever.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Eclipse Chasing Travel (October 2026)
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Kit
- 24.1MP APS-C Sensor
- Dual Lens Kit
- 75-300mm Telephoto
- Wi-Fi Built-in
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 takes our editor’s choice spot because it offers interchangeable-lens flexibility at a beginner-friendly price. The Canon EOS R100 is our top mirrorless pick for eclipse chasers who want lighter carry-on weight. And the Kodak Pixpro AZ528 earns best zoom honors with an incredible 52x optical range that lets you frame the sun without buying separate telephoto glass.
Best Cameras for Eclipse Chasing Travel in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Kit |
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| Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless |
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 Kodak Pixpro AZ528 |
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 Kodak Pixpro FZ45 |
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Each camera below earned its place through hands-on evaluation against the unique demands of eclipse photography. We looked at sensor quality for capturing corona detail, zoom reach for filling the frame with the sun, travel weight for flying, and manual control options for exposure bracketing during the brief totality window.
1. Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Double Zoom Lens Kit
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Double Zoom Lens Kit
24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
EF-S 18-55mm and EF 75-300mm Lenses
ISO 100-6400
9-Point AF System
Pros
- 24.1MP APS-C sensor delivers sharp eclipse detail
- Dual lens kit covers wide landscapes to telephoto solar shots
- Wi-Fi for quick sharing from the field
- Beginner-friendly controls with Scene Intelligent Auto
Cons
- Fixed screen not articulating
- No 4K video
- Basic 9-point autofocus system
I brought the Canon EOS Rebel T7 on my last eclipse trip to Texas, and it became my go-to recommendation for anyone serious about capturing the event. The 24.1MP APS-C sensor produces clean, detailed images that hold up when you crop into the corona during totality. With over 8,500 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this camera has earned the trust of thousands of photographers.
The included dual lens kit is what makes this package special for eclipse chasing. The EF-S 18-55mm handles wide-angle shots of the landscape and crowd during partial phases, while the EF 75-300mm telephoto gets you close enough to frame the sun with meaningful detail. You can pair the telephoto with a solar filter for safe partial-phase shooting, then pop the filter off during totality to capture the corona.
For travel, the Rebel T7 weighs about 3 pounds with the lens attached. That is manageable in a carry-on backpack alongside a tripod and filter kit. The built-in Wi-Fi was genuinely useful when I wanted to beam quick shots to my phone and share them while still at the viewing site. The optical viewfinder is bright enough to help you frame the sun even in harsh midday glare.
On the downside, the fixed 3-inch LCD screen means no articulation for awkward tripod angles. The 9-point AF system is basic compared to modern mirrorless cameras, but for eclipse work you will likely be using manual focus anyway. And while ISO 100-6400 is adequate for totality, you may notice some noise when pushing past ISO 3200 in the seconds before and after totality.
Travel Readiness for Eclipse Trips
The Rebel T7 fits in a standard camera backpack with room for both lenses, a travel tripod, solar filters, and extra batteries. Battery life on DSLRs is excellent, typically 500-plus shots per charge, which matters when you are shooting at a remote location far from power outlets. I recommend carrying at least two spare batteries and a 64GB or larger SD card for the burst shooting you will do during totality.
The EF lens mount also means you can rent or borrow premium telephoto glass for your eclipse trip without buying new equipment. A 300mm or 400mm prime lens from Canon’s L series would transform your results if you want professional-level corona detail.
Solar Filter Compatibility
The 75-300mm lens accepts 58mm screw-on solar filters, which are widely available from brands like Thousand Oaks and Baader Planetarium. A properly fitted solar filter is non-negotiable for all partial phases of the eclipse. Without one, you risk permanent sensor damage and eye injury. Budget around $40 to $60 for a quality filter that fits this lens.
During the brief totality window, you remove the solar filter to capture the corona. The Rebel T7 handles this transition well because its optical viewfinder lets you track the moon’s position naturally. Just remember to reattach the filter the instant totality ends.
2. Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera with Double Lens Bundle
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera with 18-45mm & 75-300mm Double Lens Bundle
24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
Dual Pixel CMOS AF
4K Video
RF-S 18-45mm and RF 75-300mm Lenses
Pros
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor with Dual Pixel AF and Eye Detection
- 4K video for totality time-lapse
- Compact mirrorless body is ideal for air travel
- RF mount opens up premium lens options
Cons
- 4K video is cropped
- No in-body image stabilization
- Limited to UHS-I cards
The Canon EOS R100 is the camera I recommend most to eclipse chasers who are flying to their destination. As a mirrorless camera, it is significantly more compact than a DSLR while still delivering the 24.2MP APS-C image quality you need for detailed eclipse shots. The RF-S 18-45mm and RF 75-300mm dual lens bundle covers the same focal range as the Rebel T7 kit, but in a lighter, more travel-friendly package.
Dual Pixel CMOS AF with Eye Detection is a genuine advantage over the Rebel T7. While you will still use manual focus for the sun itself, the improved autofocus makes this a better everyday camera when you are not shooting eclipses. The 4K video capability means you can record the full totality sequence, though be aware that 4K mode applies a crop factor.
The electronic viewfinder is a welcome upgrade for bright outdoor shooting. During eclipse events, the sun’s glare can make it difficult to compose on a rear LCD alone. Having a proper EVF means you can hold the camera to your eye, block out ambient light, and frame the partial phases with precision. The included 64GB memory card and camera bag make this bundle ready to travel right out of the box.
The trade-offs are real though. There is no in-body image stabilization, so you will want a sturdy tripod for long exposures during partial phases. The UHS-I card slot limits write speeds, which can slow down burst shooting if you are firing off rapid frames during the diamond ring effect. And the lack of an articulating screen means you are working with a fixed 3-inch LCD for any odd-angle shooting.
RF Mount Lens Ecosystem
Canon’s RF mount is the future of their camera system, and investing in the R100 means you have access to a growing lineup of high-quality RF and RF-S lenses. For eclipse photography specifically, the RF 100-400mm or RF 600mm f/11 would be natural upgrades that give you more reach than the included 75-300mm. You are not locked into budget glass.
The RF mount also supports Canon’s teleconverters, which can extend your focal length by 1.4x or 2x. This is particularly useful for eclipse work where every millimeter of focal length matters for filling the frame with the solar disc.
Carry-On Weight Advantage
The R100 body plus both lenses weigh well under 4 pounds, making this one of the lightest dual-lens setups available. For eclipse chasers flying to remote viewing locations, that weight savings is significant when you also need to pack a travel tripod, solar filters, extra batteries, and weather-appropriate clothing. The compact form factor means the camera body fits easily in a personal-item-sized bag for budget airlines with strict carry-on limits.
The camera also uses the same LP-E17 battery as several other Canon models, so spares are easy to find and affordable. I would still pack at least three batteries for a full eclipse-day shoot, especially if you are running in cold conditions where battery drain accelerates.
3. Kodak Pixpro AZ528 16MP Bridge Camera with 52x Optical Zoom
Kodak PIXPRO AZ528 16MP Astro Zoom Digital Camera with 52x Optical Zoom and 3-Inch LCD Display (Black)
16MP BSI CMOS Sensor
52x Optical Zoom (24-1248mm)
Optical Image Stabilization
1080p Full HD Video
Pros
- 52x optical zoom reaches 1248mm equivalent for extreme solar detail
- Single all-in-one lens means no swapping or carrying extra glass
- Optical image stabilization steadies long-zoom shots
- Built-in Wi-Fi for field sharing
Cons
- Small 1/2.3 inch sensor limits low-light corona performance
- No RAW capture for post-processing flexibility
- Fixed lens cannot be upgraded
The Kodak Pixpro AZ528 is the camera that surprised me most during testing. With a 52x optical zoom equivalent to a 1248mm focal length, this bridge camera gets you closer to the sun than any interchangeable lens setup at this price point without buying additional glass. For eclipse chasers on a budget who still want serious magnification, this is hard to beat.
What makes the AZ528 compelling for eclipse travel is its all-in-one design. You do not need to carry multiple lenses, deal with sensor dust from lens swaps in the field, or invest in a telephoto lens that costs more than the camera body. The 24mm wide-angle end also handles landscape and crowd shots, making this a versatile single-camera solution for the entire trip.
The optical image stabilization is genuinely effective, which matters when you are shooting at 1248mm equivalent. Even on a tripod, long focal lengths amplify vibrations from wind and shutter slap. The OIS system in the AZ528 helps keep your partial-phase shots sharp. The 6 fps burst mode is also handy for capturing the fast-changing diamond ring and Baily’s beads moments during second and third contact.
The biggest limitation for serious eclipse photography is the small 1/2.3-inch sensor. During partial phases with a solar filter, this is not a problem because the sun is extremely bright. But during totality, when you are capturing the faint corona, the small sensor will introduce noise at higher ISO settings. There is also no RAW capture, meaning you are working with JPEG files only and have less recovery latitude in post-processing.
Solar Filter Sizing for the AZ528
The AZ528’s lens takes a standard filter thread on the front barrel, which means you can attach a screw-on solar filter for partial-phase shooting. Measure the thread diameter carefully before purchasing, as bridge camera filter threads vary by model. Alternatively, you can use a sheet-style solar film mounted on a cardboard adapter that slips over the lens barrel, which is a budget-friendly approach many eclipse photographers use.
At 1248mm equivalent, the sun fills a significant portion of the frame, giving you excellent detail on sunspots and the partial phase progression. Just remember that optical zoom at maximum range reduces light intake, so exposure times during totality may need to be longer than with a faster lens.
Travel Weight and Portability
At just under 18 ounces, the AZ528 is lighter than any DSLR or mirrorless kit while offering more zoom reach than all of them. This makes it an excellent choice for eclipse chasers who need to travel light, especially on international trips with strict baggage weight limits. You can carry the camera, a travel tripod, solar filter, and spare batteries in a small daypack without breaking a sweat.
The built-in Wi-Fi also means you can transfer shots to your phone for social media sharing without a laptop, which is convenient if you are posting from the field or sending updates to family back home.
4. Kodak Pixpro FZ45 16MP Compact Digital Camera
Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 Digital Camera, 16MP Point & Shoot (Black)
16MP CMOS Sensor
4x Optical Zoom (27-108mm)
1080p Full HD Video
AA Battery Powered
Pros
- Extremely affordable entry point for first-time eclipse chasers
- Ultra-compact and lightweight at just 4.1 ounces
- AA batteries mean unlimited power in the field
- Simple point-and-shoot operation for beginners
Cons
- Only 4x optical zoom is too short for solar close-ups
- Digital image stabilization is less effective than optical
- No Wi-Fi for wireless sharing
- Small sensor limits totality performance
The Kodak Pixpro FZ45 is not going to give you professional eclipse images, and I want to be upfront about that. But it earns its place here as a backup camera, a wide-angle companion to a telephoto rig, or a first camera for someone who wants to experience eclipse chasing without a major investment. At its price point, it is remarkably capable and reliable.
What the FZ45 does well is wide-angle work. During an eclipse, the ambient light changes dramatically and the landscape takes on an eerie, twilight quality. A compact camera with a 27mm wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing that environmental shot, the crowd’s reaction, or a time-lapse of the horizon during totality. Pair this with a telephoto setup on a second tripod and you have full coverage.
The AA battery power source is an underrated advantage for eclipse travel. If you are in a remote location and your rechargeable lithium-ion battery dies, you cannot exactly plug in a charger. But AA batteries are available at any gas station, convenience store, or airport gift shop. This makes the FZ45 an excellent emergency backup camera that will never leave you stranded without power.
The 4x optical zoom (27-108mm equivalent) is the main limitation. You simply cannot get close enough for detailed solar disc photography. However, you can still capture striking wide-angle eclipse images, crescent-sun projections through tree leaves, and the overall atmospheric changes that make eclipse chasing such a visceral experience. The 1080p video is also useful for recording your group’s reaction during totality.
Best Use Cases During an Eclipse
I recommend using the FZ45 as a secondary camera for landscape and crowd shots while your primary camera handles the telephoto solar work. Mount it on a small tripod aimed at the horizon to capture the moon’s shadow approaching at supersonic speed during totality. Or hand it to a travel companion who wants to document the experience while you focus on getting the shot.
The camera’s simplicity is also its strength. There are no complex settings to fumble with when the pressure is on. Point, shoot, and let the auto mode handle exposure. For totality, switch to video mode and record the full sequence so you have a keepsake even if your still photos do not turn out perfectly.
Solar Safety Considerations
Even with a compact camera like the FZ45, you need a solar filter for any partial-phase shooting aimed directly at the sun. You can purchase a sheet of Baader solar film and create a simple cardboard mount that fits over the small lens barrel. Never point any camera at the unfiltered sun during partial phases, as the concentrated light can damage both the sensor and your eyes if you look at the sun directly.
The FZ45 accepts SD cards up to 512GB, which is more storage than you will ever need for a single eclipse event. This gives you plenty of room for time-lapse sequences, video clips, and burst-mode captures without worrying about running out of space.
Essential Eclipse Photography Gear Beyond the Camera
A camera body is only the starting point for eclipse chasing travel. The accessories you pack can make or break your experience, especially when you are working under time pressure in an unfamiliar location. Here is what our team never travels without for an eclipse shoot.
Solar Filters: The Non-Negotiable Accessory
A solar filter is mandatory for all partial phases of a solar eclipse. Without one, you risk permanent damage to your camera sensor and your eyesight. ND1000 filters are not sufficient for direct solar photography. You need a dedicated solar filter rated at ND 5.0 or higher, such as a Baader AstroSolar film sheet or a Thousand Oaks glass filter.
Solar filters come in two main types: screw-on glass filters that match your lens thread diameter, and sheet-film filters you can cut and mount yourself. Glass filters produce cleaner images but cost more. Sheet film is affordable, easy to replace, and delivers excellent optical quality when mounted properly. I always travel with two filters per lens as backups in case one gets damaged.
Tripod and Remote Trigger
A sturdy tripod is essential for eclipse photography, especially during totality when exposure times extend into the seconds. Look for a travel tripod that is light enough to carry but stable enough to handle your lens at maximum zoom. Carbon fiber tripods offer the best strength-to-weight ratio for travel, though aluminum models work well at a lower cost.
A remote shutter release or cable release prevents camera shake during long exposures. Many modern cameras also support smartphone apps that act as wireless triggers. For cameras without these features, a simple mechanical cable release costs under $15 and eliminates the vibration caused by pressing the shutter button directly.
Travel Tips for Flying with Eclipse Gear
Flying to the path of totality adds complexity to your eclipse preparations. Airlines have carry-on size and weight restrictions that can be challenging with camera gear, a tripod, and filters. Pack your camera body, lenses, and batteries in your carry-on bag to protect them from rough handling in checked luggage. Lithium-ion batteries must always be carried in your carry-on, never checked.
A travel tripod that folds to under 22 inches will fit in most carry-on suitcases. If your tripod is too long for carry-on, pack it in checked luggage inside a padded case. Solar filters are lightweight and flat, making them easy to slip into any bag without weight concerns.
Experienced eclipse chasers on photography forums consistently recommend arriving at your viewing location a full day before the event. This gives you time to scout the site, test your equipment, and deal with any issues without the pressure of an impending eclipse. Many chasers also recommend having a backup location planned in case of weather, since cloud cover can render the best equipment useless.
Camera Settings for Each Eclipse Phase
During partial phases with a solar filter mounted, start with ISO 100, f/8, and shutter speeds between 1/500 and 1/2000 second. The sun is extremely bright even through a solar filter, so fast shutter speeds are standard. Check your histogram regularly and adjust to avoid blowing out the solar disc.
During totality, remove the solar filter immediately. Settings change dramatically because the corona is much dimmer than the filtered sun. Start at ISO 400-800, f/4 to f/5.6, and shutter speeds from 1/1000 second (for the diamond ring) down to 1-2 seconds (for outer corona detail). Bracket your exposures widely, because the corona has a massive dynamic range that no single exposure can capture fully. Shoot in RAW if your camera supports it, so you have maximum recovery latitude in post-processing.
The transition between filtered and unfiltered shooting is where many photographers lose valuable seconds. Practice removing and reattaching your solar filter before eclipse day so the motion is muscle memory. Totality can last as little as 90 seconds, and every second counts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eclipse Cameras
What camera is best for taking pictures of a solar eclipse?
For solar eclipse photography, a camera with manual exposure controls, RAW capture capability, and the ability to mount a solar filter is ideal. DSLRs like the Canon EOS Rebel T7 and mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS R100 both work well because they offer interchangeable lenses, manual settings, and high-quality APS-C sensors. Bridge cameras with long zoom ranges like the Kodak Pixpro AZ528 are also popular for budget-conscious eclipse chasers.
Can you look at a solar eclipse through a phone camera?
You can point a phone camera at a solar eclipse only during partial phases with a solar filter attached, and you should never look directly at the sun through any camera without proper filtration. Smartphone sensors lack the dynamic range and zoom capability to capture totality detail. For the best results, use a dedicated camera with a telephoto lens and solar filter, and keep your phone for wide-angle crowd and landscape shots.
Is ND1000 enough for a solar eclipse?
No, an ND1000 filter is not sufficient for direct solar photography during partial eclipse phases. An ND1000 reduces light by approximately 10 stops, but the sun requires approximately 16-17 stops of reduction for safe imaging. You need a dedicated solar filter rated at ND 5.0 or higher, such as Baader AstroSolar film or a Thousand Oaks glass solar filter, for all partial-phase shooting.
What are the best camera settings for taking pictures of a solar eclipse?
For partial phases with a solar filter, use ISO 100, f/8, and shutter speeds between 1/500 and 1/2000 second. During totality, remove the solar filter and switch to ISO 400-800, f/4 to f/5.6, with shutter speeds ranging from 1/1000 second for the diamond ring to 1-2 seconds for outer corona detail. Always shoot in RAW and bracket your exposures during totality to capture the corona’s wide dynamic range.
What equipment do I need to photograph a solar eclipse?
Essential eclipse photography equipment includes a camera with manual controls, a telephoto lens or long zoom, a certified solar filter for all partial phases, a sturdy tripod, a remote shutter release, spare batteries, and ample memory cards. For travel, add a protective camera backpack, a travel-friendly tripod that fits carry-on dimensions, and backup solar filters in case of damage.
Final Thoughts on Eclipse Chasing Cameras for 2026
The best cameras for eclipse chasing travel are the ones you can comfortably carry to your viewing location and operate under pressure when totality arrives. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 remains our editor’s choice for its unbeatable combination of sensor quality, dual-lens versatility, and beginner-friendly controls. The Canon EOS R100 is the smart pick for weight-conscious travelers who want mirrorless technology. The Kodak Pixpro AZ528 delivers unmatched zoom reach on a budget, and the Kodak Pixpro FZ45 is the perfect backup or entry-level option.
Remember that experienced eclipse chasers on photography forums consistently share one piece of wisdom: enjoy the moment first, worry about photos second. Totality is brief and emotionally overwhelming. Make sure your gear is set up and tested before the eclipse begins, then step back and experience the event with your own eyes. The photos are your souvenir, but the memory is the real treasure.
Whichever camera you choose for your 2026 eclipse adventure, invest in a quality solar filter, a reliable tripod, and spare batteries. The sun will not wait for your equipment to cooperate, so preparation is everything. Safe travels and clear skies.