The northern lights have recently danced across the night skies of the U.S., turning horizons into glowing waves of green, pink, and violet. From Wisconsin to Florida, people gazed in awe — phones in hand — trying to capture the moment before it faded.
But if you’ve ever wondered how to photograph the northern lights and make your shots look as magical as they appear in person, this beginner’s guide is for you.
Understanding What You’re Photographing
The Aurora Borealis isn’t just a pretty light show — it’s a solar performance. The phenomenon happens when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field, releasing energy that glows in the night sky.
During this week’s intense G4-level geomagnetic storm, the aurora was visible far beyond its usual Arctic limits. Even states like Alabama, Texas, and Florida got a glimpse — proving that nature’s art doesn’t always need a passport.
When and Where to Capture the Northern Lights
For the best photos, timing and location matter just as much as your camera settings.
Best Viewing Time:
Between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., when the sky is darkest and light pollution is lowest.
Best Locations:
Head away from city lights — open countryside, lakesides, and rural areas are ideal.
| Location Type | Viewing Quality | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Countryside / Rural | Excellent | 10 p.m.–2 a.m. |
| Small Town | Moderate | Midnight |
| City / Urban Area | Poor (too much light) | – |
According to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center, the northern U.S. remains the best region for aurora visibility, but during strong solar storms, even southern states can be treated to the view.
Camera Settings Made Simple
You don’t need an expensive setup to photograph the northern lights — a good smartphone or entry-level camera can capture the magic with the right settings.
For Smartphones:
- Turn on Night Mode or Pro Mode
- Set ISO between 800–1200
- Use 5–10 seconds of exposure
- Keep your phone steady on a tripod or surface
For Cameras:
- Use a wide-angle lens (14–24mm)
- Set aperture to f/2.8 or lower
- Adjust ISO to 800–1600
- Keep shutter speed between 5–15 seconds
💡 Pro Tip: Manual focus is your best friend. Focus on a bright star or distant light source to keep your shot sharp.
Extra Tips for Picture-Perfect Results
- Include the landscape — silhouettes of trees, lakes, or mountains add depth.
- Be patient — auroras move fast; the best colors might appear suddenly.
- Dress warm and stay ready — clear, cold nights often give the best displays.
- Experiment with angles — sometimes, turning slightly away from the brightest spot gives a more balanced frame.
And remember: the aurora isn’t just about what you see — it’s about what you feel while watching it.
The Sky Will Dance Again
The sun is currently at its solar maximum, a phase of high solar activity that happens every 11 years. This means more frequent auroras in the months ahead. So, if you missed them this week, there’s still time to catch your own sky show.
All you need is a clear night, a bit of patience, and your camera — ready to capture the moment when the heavens decide to dance again. 🌌
