Northern Lights Photography
The Northern Lights are a breathtaking sight, but capturing their magic in a photograph takes a bit of planning and know-how. Here are a few tips to help you get your perfect shot.
Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
Capture the Moment
- Timing is Everything: The aurora is most active around the spring and fall equinoxes, so plan your trip accordingly. Check the solar activity forecast for peak viewing times.
- Location, Location, Location: Escape light pollution! Head to remote locations with dark skies for the best results.
- Gear Up: You’ll need a camera with a wide-angle lens (at least 14mm) and a tripod for stability. A remote shutter release is also helpful to avoid camera shake.
- Embrace the Cold: The Northern Lights are most active in winter, so be prepared for cold temperatures. Dress warmly and consider using a hand warmer to keep your fingers nimble.
- Experiment with Settings: Use a high ISO (800-3200) and a long exposure (5-30 seconds) to capture the aurora’s movement. Adjust your aperture and shutter speed to balance the brightness of the aurora with the surrounding landscape.
- Patience is Key: The aurora is a fickle dance. Be patient, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings and compositions. You’ll be rewarded with stunning photos!
- Composition is Key: Think about your foreground and background. Incorporate interesting elements like trees, mountains, or water to create a sense of scale and depth.
- Embrace the Unexpected: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and they often surprise with their beauty. Be open to capturing unexpected moments and compositions.
- Bonus Tip: Use a star tracker to follow the movement of the stars and create stunning time-lapse videos of the aurora.
With a little planning and a lot of patience, you can capture the magic of the Northern Lights and create memories that will last a lifetime.
It should also be noted that your camera is likely a lot more sensitive than your eyes, you will often tend to see a much more vibrant aurora in your photos than you do with the naked eye.