Photographing the August 12 solar eclipse can damage phone cameras

Pointing a smartphone camera directly at the Sun during the August 12 total solar eclipse can permanently damage the sensor in seconds unless a proper solar filter is used, according to warnings from photography experts and media outlets. The concentrated sunlight can overheat the sensor and optics, causing irreversible damage, especially during partial phases when the Sun is still bright.

The risk

Both Infobae and ABC highlight that the danger is not mitigated by adjusting exposure or screen brightness, as these only affect the image, not the light entering the lens. Telephoto lenses are particularly risky because they concentrate solar radiation on a small area, similar to a magnifying glass. Prolonged exposure can also cause the device to overheat.

Protection measures

• Use a certified solar filter placed in front of the lens, such as a solar sheet or an extreme-density ND filter (ND1000000) for DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Source: Infobae
• For smartphones, a certified solar filter must be placed between the camera and the Sun; avoid holding eclipse glasses in front of the phone, as they can shift and expose parts of the lens. Source: Infobae
• Never look at the Sun through an optical viewfinder while the camera is pointed at it. Source: Infobae
• Only remove the filter when the Sun is completely covered by the Moon, and reinstall it at the first sign of the Sun reappearing. Source: Infobae

Eye safety

ABC emphasizes that eye protection is equally critical: solar viewing glasses must meet the ISO 12312-2 standard. Retinal damage can occur without immediate pain, and symptoms like blurred vision may appear hours later. Source: ABC