These are my notes from what I learned from witnessing the 2017 Eclipse. I did a lot of research on what to expect come the big day, and how to maximize my efforts. Even so there was more I could have done, or done differently to make it better.
Here is what I learned.
BE CAMERA SMART - I spent so much time researching the what and where of the eclipse, I wasn't prepared for the how of taking pictures on the big day. Make sure you turn off the auto focus on your camera and set it instead to infinity. The sun is actually rather small and my Canon camera didn't know what to focus on. I had only one picture look halfway decent. Also you'll need a proper solar filter to take pictures before and after the totality portion of the eclipse, which I did not have. Don't wait until the eclipse draws near. Do your filter shopping early before stores run out of stock. Get filters for your eyes as well as your cameras! Do your research! There's a lot of information out there on the Internet.
MAXIMIZE YOUR ECLIPSE - The eclipse will cast a shadow on the earth as it passes overhead. As long as you are in the shadow you WILL see the eclipse. But if you're on the edge of the shadow you will see the eclipse for a short period of time compared to if you are in the center of the eclipse path. Do what it takes to be in the center of the path. There are helpful phone apps that can lead you directly to the centerline. Check the weather too. If it's cloudy in your area you will miss the eclipse. Do your research!
RELAX & ENJOY - I ended up driving from Los Angeles to Idaho in one day to see the eclipse. I did my research and detirmined the Idaho area would be clear on eclipse day and it was. It would have been nicer to take several extra days off work to make the trip and relax once in the viewing area. Also think about sticking around after the eclipse is over. People arrive over many days to see the eclipse, but trust me on this one. Once it is over 99% of the people are in a "Let's get out of here" frame of mind and traffic will be severe for hours. If possible stick around in the area until at least the next morning before hitting the road.
