SUMMARY
A photographer with 47 years of experience photographing solar eclipses describes how the internet significantly altered the experience for the last three eclipses. For the "Great American Eclipse" in 2017, widespread internet promotion encouraged last-minute travel without reservations, overwhelming popular viewing locations like Casper, Wyoming. The author details personal challenges, including a border detention and extreme crowds at basic services, contrasting it with earlier, less crowded eclipse experiences. He also shares a DIY pinhole projection finder technique for easier solar tracking with a telephoto lens and notes the challenges of digital sensors reflecting solar filters.
TAKEAWAYS
Internet promotion led to massive, unplanned crowds for the 2017 "Great American Eclipse."
The author experienced significant logistical issues due to overcrowding, including accommodation shortages and busy services.
A DIY pinhole projection finder is suggested for easier solar tracking during eclipses.
Digital sensors can create reflections with solar filters, requiring specific adjustments.