Photographing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a magical experience, but one that requires a bit of skill and a lot of patience. The shimmering curtains of green, pink and purple lights dancing across the sky are almost otherworldly when seen in person. Whether you're heading to Iceland, Norway, Finland or, on occasion, right here in the UK, here's Kenro's practical guide to photographing this amazing phenomena.
Choose the Right Location
The Northern Lights are most commonly visible between September and March when nights are longest with peak activity usually happening between 10pm and 2am, although nature doesn't follow a strict schedule! Two things will need to align for the optimal night - solar activity and clear skies. Use aurora forecasting websites or apps that measure geomagnetic activity, to make sure the lights will be where you are. For the best chance of capturing the Northern Lights, choose a location with minimal light pollution. Get as remote as possible, away from towns and streetlights. Coastal areas, open countryside or frozen lakes can provide beautiful foregrounds without hindering your shots.
Use the Right Equipment
Although a DSLR or mirrorless camera with full manual control is ideal, amazing shots can also be taken on your smartphone if you use the right settings. A wide-angle lens with a large aperture (f/2.8 or wider) is ideal for capturing the expansive night sky. A tripod is a non-negotiable. Invest in a sturdy tripod, like the Kenro Professional Large Video Tripod, or the Professional Travel Video Tripod for a more portable option (or if you're looking to shoot on your smartphone, Kenro's mini tripods and handgrips are also an excellent option). Long exposures mean even the steadiest of hands won't cut it. A stable tripod will keep your images looking sharp. It's also important not to forget spare batteries when shooting in the winter months as cold weather can drain them fast.
Dial In Your Camera Settings
There's no single 'perfect' setting for shooting auroras, but here are some solid starting points. Set your camera to manual mode to have full control over your settings. Start with an ISO of around 800-1600, a shutter speed of 15-30 seconds, and an aperture of f/2.8 or wider. Experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance of exposure and clarity. If the aurora is faint, try increasing ISO or extend the exposure slightly. Have a play, and find what works best for your camera and the lights you're shooting. Don't forget - shooting in RAW format will give you more flexibility when editing later.
Focus Manually & Carefully
Autofocus, whether on a camera or a smartphone, is going to struggle in the dark, so make sure you're switching to manual focus or locking your smartphone focus. The easiest way to do this is to focus on a distant star and light and then fine-tune the sharpness as much as possible. Once set, avoid touching this focus.
All About Composition
Add interest to your Northern Lights photos by including a compelling foreground element. Look for a snowy tree or mountain, reflections in a body of water or ice, or use something more industrial like cabins, fences or winding roads. This will not only provide context to your images but also create a sense of depth and scale.
Be Patient and Persistent
Photographing the Northern Lights can be unpredictable, so be prepared to wait for the perfect moment. Stay patient and keep shooting, as the aurora's intensity and colours can change rapidly. Keep adjusting your settings as conditions change and review your images often. Some of the best displays happen after hours of waiting - patience is key. If your camera supports it, try some time-lapse photography, it's a fantastic way to capture the drama of the dancing lights.
By following these tips and tricks, you'll be well-equipped to photograph the Northern Lights like a pro. Remember to stay safe, dress warmly, and enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the Aurora Borealis as you capture it through your lens.
