Get your camera gear and protective filters ready: a partial solar eclipse is due Thursday. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. It's a spectacular sight, and an even better photo opportunity. Here are some tips and pointers to keep in mind when photographing the solar eclipse.

DO

? Use a solar filter to protect your DSLR camera sensor

? Use protective eyewear, such as welder's glasses

? Use a tripod or mount to avoid a blurry photo

? Manually focus your camera

? Set your camera settings before the solar eclipse - test those settings on a non-eclipse day

? Use a high ISO setting and high resolution - to keep exposures very short and prevent blurring from vibrations

DON'T ? Use a smartphone

? Look directly at the sun with your camera/eyes unless both are protected

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Your Take: How and when to watch the solar eclipse