How to Take Photos of Northern Lights on iPhone: 1 Minute to Capture Stunning Aurora Borealis Shots

Capturing the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights with your iPhone is absolutely possible—even if you aren’t a seasoned photographer. The key is understanding the natural low light conditions and making the most of your iPhone’s camera settings. First, head to a location with minimal light pollution, such as rural landscapes or open fields, where the sky is dark and clear. Use a sturdy tripod or stabilize your iPhone against a surface to prevent shake during slow shutter shots. Open your Camera, select ‘Night mode’ (available on newer iPhones), and adjust the exposure by tapping and holding the screen, then sliding your finger upward for longer exposure. For older models without Night mode, use third-party apps like ProCamera or Slow Shutter Cam to gain manual control over ISO, focus, and exposure time. Always disable the flash, keep HDR off, and set your focus to infinity if possible. Once you’ve captured your shots, you can enhance the color vibrancy and contrast during post-processing for that truly magical aurora effect.

Tips 1:

As a designer, I always recommend planning your photo composition before shooting. Try to include thoughtfully arranged elements in the foreground, such as silhouetted trees or interesting terrain, to give your Northern Lights photos a sense of scale and depth. Just as in AI photo shoot setups, thoughtful framing can elevate a good image into a great one. Experiment with different angles—sometimes tilting your iPhone slightly upward or including horizontal lines of the landscape can highlight the drama of the aurora borealis sweeping across the sky.

FAQ

Q: What iPhone model is best for photographing the Northern Lights?

A: The latest models (iPhone 11 and newer) with Night mode deliver the best results, but apps can help older models as well.

Q: Do I need a tripod to take Northern Lights photos on iPhone?

A: While not strictly necessary, a tripod greatly reduces blur during long exposures and is highly recommended.

Q: Which camera settings should I use for the best aurora images?

A: Use Night mode, set the longest exposure available, and manually adjust the focus and ISO if possible with third-party apps.

Q: Can I edit Northern Lights photos on my iPhone?

A: Yes, use the Photos app or apps like Lightroom to adjust color, contrast, and sharpness for enhanced results.

Q: Is there a best time of year or night for photographing the Northern Lights?

A: The best time is during the winter months when nights are long and dark, typically between October and March, with peak activity around midnight.