How to Take Pictures of the Northern Lights on iPhone
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs in the Earth’s polar regions. Witnessing this mesmerizing display of colors is a dream come true for many photography enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to see the Northern Lights and want to capture them on your iPhone, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take stunning photos.
1. Plan Your Trip: The Northern Lights are most visible during the fall and winter months, particularly in September to April. Check the forecast for aurora activity and choose a location with minimal light pollution. Popular spots include Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Alaska.
2. Charge Your iPhone: Ensure your iPhone is fully charged or carry a portable charger to keep it powered throughout your adventure.
3. Use a Tripod: A tripod is essential for taking stable and clear photos of the Northern Lights. You can find affordable tripods specifically designed for smartphones.
4. Set Your iPhone to Manual Mode: To capture the Northern Lights effectively, you’ll need to use manual settings on your iPhone. Here’s how to do it:
a. Open the Camera app and select the “Manual” mode.
b. Adjust the ISO to the highest setting (e.g., ISO 3200) to capture more light.
c. Lower the shutter speed to at least 10 seconds to let more light in. Experiment with different shutter speeds to find the optimal exposure.
d. Set the white balance to “Cloudy” or “Tungsten” to enhance the colors of the Northern Lights.
5. Focus on the Northern Lights: Since the Northern Lights are moving, you’ll need to continuously focus on them. Tap on the screen where you want to focus, and the camera will lock onto that point.
6. Use a Remote shutter: To avoid camera shake, use a remote shutter or a timer to take your photos. This will ensure that your iPhone remains still during the exposure.
7. Experiment with Aperture: Adjust the aperture to f/2.2 or lower to let more light in. This setting will help you capture the vibrant colors of the Northern Lights.
8. Use a Filter: Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare. This filter will also help to eliminate light pollution.
9. Download Editing Apps: To further enhance your photos, download editing apps like Adobe Lightroom or VSCO. These apps offer various filters and adjustments to help you bring out the best in your Northern Lights photos.
10. Practice Patience: The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, so be patient and keep shooting. Sometimes, you might capture a spectacular moment, while other times, the lights might be faint. Keep experimenting with different settings and techniques.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning photos of the Northern Lights on your iPhone. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings and techniques to find what works best for you. Happy shooting!
