Syag Lchochma,
My kids used to insist I video or take pictures of certain events in their lives and I always ended up feeling like I missed out. Viewing things through a lens is not the same a being there.
I completely agree, even though I (and the kids) later appreciate having the pictures or video. The difference here in my opinion is that a photographer may view such an event as a good opportunity to take photos. So, if someone is going to South Carolina to witness the eclipse with their own eyes, then a camera might be in the way. But if someone is going to South Carolina to take photos of the eclipse, then to not have the camera would cause him to feel like he missed out. And who cares if thousands of others are doing the same?