A solar superstorm has led to stunning displays of aurora in both the northern and southern hemispheres this weekend, with many capturing the sights using nothing more than a smartphone. The colorful displays have been seen in places like Florida, the Bahamas, and Mexico, far beyond the usual reach of the auroral oval around the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. As more displays are expected to occur worldwide, using a camera is a great way to observe the phenomenon, especially as auroras can be faint or affected by light pollution.
For those looking to photograph the northern lights with a smartphone, using the Night Mode feature for long exposures of five to 10 seconds can result in impressive shots of the aurora. It is recommended to use the primary lens, a small tripod, and shoot in raw format to enhance the quality of the images. Additionally, avoiding oversaturating colors during editing is crucial to maintaining the authenticity of the aurora.
Those using a DSLR or mirrorless camera have the ability to manipulate settings such as ISO, aperture, and shutter speed for more control and quality when capturing the aurora. It is important to use a tripod to prevent camera shake, shoot in raw format for easier post-processing, and utilize a wide-angle lens for a broader view. Setting the lens to focus on infinity, using a low f-number for ample light intake, and experimenting with shutter speeds between three to 15 seconds can result in stunning images of the aurora.
The key to successfully photographing the northern lights is to avoid oversaturation of color during editing, as this can distort the natural beauty of the phenomenon. Whether using a smartphone or a DSLR/mirrorless camera, capturing the vivid displays of aurora requires attention to detail and patience to achieve the best results. With more auroral displays anticipated globally, amateur photographers are encouraged to seize the opportunity to witness and document this breathtaking natural light show. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can capture the magic of the northern lights and share it with the world.
