Critique needed

[liberaltrucker]

I've been practicing for the eclipse next month.
After much trial and error (mostly the latter!),
I finally got this image. Technical stuff:
Nikon D3400 with Nikkor 70-300 mm lens
F=300 mm
ISO 1600
1/250 sec shutter
f 6.3
Last but certainly not least, handheld!

Constructive criticism and any tips are most welcome.

Thanks!

[PoliticAverse]

1. Well it looks like a big orange dot...

The important part of an eclipse photo is what is on the outside of the eclipsed part, like...

[liberaltrucker]

3. Thanks!

Unfortunately, can't practice that, so I'll have to wing it.

[2naSalit]

2. Looks good...

a few years back, during the Venus transiting the sun event, a friend hand held a welder's lens from a welding mask in front of his Nikon Coolpix P510 and it came out clear and sharp. Just sayin'. Looks like your technique works well too.

I don't have a welder's mask but I have the same camera as that friend so I might try to find a welder's mask and give it a try. I live in the penumbral path so all I have to do is go outside... might as well give it a try.

2na

[liberaltrucker]

4. Thanks!

I used a Seymour solar filter.

[jmowreader]

5. Home Depot and Lowe's both sell replacement welder's helmet filters

They cost about $5 apiece.

[2naSalit]

8. Cool!

Thanks!

[ManiacJoe]

6. You have the right idea.

Nikon D3400 with Nikkor 70-300 mm lens
F=300 mm
ISO 1600
1/250 sec shutter
f 6.3
Last but certainly not least, handheld!

First and foremost, get a tripod and a wired or wireless remote. This alone will greatly improve everything. This will also free up the shutter speed from the hand-held range so that you can use a smaller aperture and lower ISO.

You need a solar filter (DIY or bought). The welding glass is a good option.

All this said, you are definitely headed in the right direction.

[liberaltrucker]

7. Food for thought. Thanks!