I have continued to work on and evolve this image since I took it two years ago, so I decided it was time to add the current iteration to my 500px collection. I'm leaving the original up as well because I think it is interesting to compare them.
I first photographed an eclipse in 2007 and did an OK job for a first attempt. Seven years later, I had an opportunity to revisit my original concept with more advanced equipment and better skills, resulting in this image. Two years further on and I hope my current interpretation and developing has improved it again.
I shot for six hours with a 400mm lens to capture the entire eclipse. I also took a wider angle star shot as well as the landscape scene at early twilight to get some light on the land. Many of the eclipsing moon phases required blending of up to six exposures for dynamic range. The final image consists of over 75 layers in all.