How to Take a Picture of Northern Lights on iPhone
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs in the high-latitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Capturing the mesmerizing green, purple, and red hues of the Northern Lights with an iPhone can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some tips and tricks to help you take stunning photos of the Northern Lights using your iPhone.
1. Choose the Right Time and Location
The first step to capturing the Northern Lights is to find the right time and location. The Northern Lights are most visible during the fall and winter months, when the sky is darker and the sun sets early. Look for destinations with a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights, such as Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Alaska.
2. Plan Your Shooting Time
To get the best shots, plan your shooting time around the peak hours of the Northern Lights activity. The visibility of the Northern Lights can vary, so it’s essential to check the forecast and aurora activity reports. Aim to be outside at least 30 minutes before the forecasted peak activity to allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
3. Use the Right Settings
To capture the Northern Lights, you’ll need to adjust your iPhone’s camera settings. Here’s how to do it:
– Manual Mode: Switch to Manual mode for more control over your camera settings.
– ISO: Increase the ISO to at least 800 to capture more light. You can go higher if needed, but be aware that higher ISOs can introduce more noise.
– Shutter Speed: Set the shutter speed to a long exposure, such as 10-30 seconds, to capture the movement of the Northern Lights.
– Aperture: Keep the aperture at f/2.8 or lower to let in as much light as possible.
4. Use a Tripod
Using a tripod is crucial for long exposure shots. It will help prevent camera shake and ensure that your photos are sharp. If you don’t have a tripod, try to find a stable surface to place your iPhone on, such as a rock or a log.
5. Use a Remote Trigger
A remote trigger will allow you to take photos without touching the iPhone, minimizing camera shake. You can purchase a remote trigger for your iPhone or use a Bluetooth shutter remote app.
6. Experiment with Composition
Experiment with different compositions to create unique shots. Try to include interesting foreground elements, such as trees, mountains, or water, to add depth to your photos. Also, consider taking vertical shots to capture the full width of the Northern Lights.
7. Post-Processing
Once you’ve taken your photos, you can enhance them using editing apps like Snapseed, VSCO, or Adobe Lightroom. Adjust the exposure, contrast, and color balance to bring out the best in your Northern Lights photos.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning photos of the Northern Lights with your iPhone. Happy shooting!
