Perseids Meteor Shower Peaks Tonight: Photographers' Guide

The annual Perseids meteor shower peaks tonight, August 12, with optimal viewing conditions across the Northern Hemisphere and the northernmost parts of the Southern Hemisphere. While a total solar eclipse is visible in a narrow swath of Europe today, the meteor shower offers a broader photographic opportunity. Photographers like Josh Dury have demonstrated the photogenic potential of the Perseids in recent years. PetaPixel's decade-old guide to photographing meteor showers remains relevant, emphasizing that capturing meteors is akin to time-lapse photography: one must take numerous wide-angle shots throughout the night, as meteors are unpredictable. Photographer Thomas O'Brien advises finding very dark areas, using a sturdy tripod, and employing a remote release (cable or smartphone app). PhotoPills has published a detailed 2026 guide recommending photographers consider the overall scene, not just the meteors, with tips on planning, location, camera setup, and photo types. Dark, clear skies are essential; NASA notes that under such conditions, up to 100 meteors per hour can be seen during peak Perseids, with meteors traveling at an average of 37 miles (nearly 60 kilometers) per second, so longer exposures increase capture odds. The shower lasts until August 24, offering more opportunities. The header photo is by Arnas Goldberg, licensed via Creative Commons CC BY 3.0.