Get readyit’s coming!

The first priority, then, is to control the light.

“Don’t have eclipse goggles or welding glass?

A solar eclipse.

A solar eclipse.Jongsun Lee / Unsplash

This step is essential.

With the light levels reduced, you now want to take manual control over the exposure.

But Now There’s Only Love in the Dark

The next challenge is composition.

Someone taking photos of a sunrise with a smartphone.

Taking photos with a smart phone.vanessa slavich / Unsplash

If not, consider an accessory lens for your phone, likethose from Moment.

You’re going to have to get physical.

“Use a mini-tripod or prop your phone on a beanbag or railing to prevent shakiness.

Someone taking an eclipse photo with a smartphone.

Taking an eclipse photo with a smartphone.m-gucci / Getty Images

m-gucci / Getty Images

And don’t forget the other photo opportunities afforded by a total eclipse.

If you’ve never experienced one, here’s what to expect.

Birds will stop singing, and it will be as spooky as all get out.

You might consider capturing this aspect with video or snapping some photos in the weird light.

And finally, don’t forget the experience.