How to Shoot Northern Lights on iPhone: Fast-Track Guide to Capturing Stunning Aurora Photos

Shooting the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) with your iPhone is more achievable than ever thanks to advancements in smartphone cameras and editing apps. Capturing this magical phenomenon, however, does require an understanding of the right settings and some creative thinking—similar to planning the lighting in a room as a designer. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to maximize your iPhone’s potential, and I’ll also show you how a designer’s approach to light, color, and space management can help you create truly stunning aurora photos.

Tips 1:

1. Check Auroral Forecasts and Location: Choose a night with a high aurora activity forecast. Head somewhere far from city lights for the darkest sky and most vivid colors—think of it like creating a perfect ambient environment in an interior space: less light pollution gives you a “blank canvas” for the Northern Lights.

2. Use a Stable Surface or Tripod: Holding your iPhone still is critical, as shooting auroras requires long exposures. Rest your phone on a steady surface or use a compact tripod. As in interior design where balance is key to harmony, here stability is key to sharpness.

3. Adjust Camera Settings: While iPhones don’t provide full manual control by default, Night Mode on newer models (iPhone 11 and up) lets you adjust exposure time. Slide the timer to its maximum. For older models or for more control, use third-party apps like Halide, Camera+ 2, or ProCam to adjust ISO, shutter speed, and focus manually. Start with ISO 800, 10-second shutter, and manual focus at infinity. Take test shots and adjust as needed.

4. Use Live and RAW Photos: Enable RAW (if your app or Pro models support it) for better post-editing. Live Photos can help capture fleeting moments, offering more frames for you to select the best image.

5. Edit with Purpose: After shooting, fine-tune your photos using apps like Lightroom Mobile. Adjust exposure, contrast, and dehaze for clarity without over-saturating. This is much like balancing colors and brightness in a well-lit living space—subtlety brings out the natural beauty of the Northern Lights, just as in a thoughtfully designed interior.

As a designer and content writer, I approach photography—especially low-light scenes like auroras—much as I do when planning a photo shoot for interiors: thoughtful lighting, careful composition, and smart post-production can turn a basic snapshot into a work of art. With your iPhone and these tips, you can capture the Northern Lights in a way that’s both technically strong and visually captivating.

FAQ

Q: Can all iPhone models shoot the Northern Lights?

A: Newer iPhones (11 and above) with Night Mode perform best, but older models can still capture auroras using third-party camera apps with manual settings and a stable setup.

Q: How do I focus my iPhone for the Northern Lights?

A: Use manual focus through apps, setting the focus to infinity. In the default camera, tap the sky and hold to lock focus (AE/AF Lock).

Q: What camera settings should I use on my iPhone?

A: Start with ISO 800, a 10-second (or longer) exposure, and manual focus at infinity. Adjust based on photo brightness and sharpness.

Q: Do I need a tripod for Northern Lights photography with iPhone?

A: Yes, a tripod or any sturdy surface is crucial to avoid camera shake and keep long exposures sharp.

Q: How can I enhance my Northern Lights photos after shooting?

A: Use apps like Lightroom Mobile or Snapseed to adjust exposure, reduce noise, increase clarity, and subtly enhance colors for a natural, polished result.