Starry skies have always been a source of wonder for me. Many evenings, my spouse and I would sit on the porch, marveling at the endless constellations above. One quiet night, I shared my dream of capturing this celestial beauty through photography—a dream that has since blossomed into a rewarding full-time career.
In my previous article, we explored the art of photographing stars, comets, and the majestic Milky Way. This time, we’re shifting focus to something even more dazzling—the Aurora Borealis. With its vivid, swirling lights painting the night sky, the Nothern Lights are nothing short of breathtaking. With its vivid, swirling lights painting the night sky, the aurora is breathtaking. Filming it, however, requires preparation, patience, and adaptability.
Inspired by my recent journey through Iceland, I’ve gathered practical tips to help you capture the aurora’s drama and serenity. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned stargazer, read on for insights that will help you elevate your footage!
Preparing for Nothern Lights Videography
Filming the aurora is no walk in the park. The extreme cold can drain batteries quickly and make handling your equipment challenging. Weather is another wildcard—cloudy skies or sudden storms can obscure the aurora entirely. And then there’s the unpredictability of the aurora itself; even with forecasts, it can vanish as quickly as it appears.
Here’s how to prepare for success:
- Pack Extra Batteries: Keep them warm to extend their life.
- Dress in Layers: Staying warm is essential for those long, chilly nights.
- Plan Backup Locations: Always have a plan B in case your primary spot doesn’t work out.
Location Scouting and Timing
Scouting a great location is like setting the stage for a performance. Wide, unobstructed spaces free of light pollution are essential, but choosing a location where there are features like mountains, frozen lakes, or reflective surfaces can make your shots stand out. These elements in the foreground create contrast with the sky, adding depth and character to your composition.
Incorporating human elements can further enhance your shots by adding narrative and emotional impact. A silhouette, such as a person gazing at the aurora, makes the scene feel more personal and relatable. When no one else is available, I’ll often step into the frame myself to achieve this effect.
Now, let’s talk about timing. While you can’t plan aurora viewing with absolute precision, you can increase your chances with research. To stay alert and ready for Aurora Borealis activity, monitor weather charts for clear skies and heck aurora activity forecast using tools like:
By combining thoughtful research, strategic location choices, and creative composition, you’ll be ready to capture the aurora in all its mesmerizing beauty.
Equipment and Camera Settings
Capturing the Nothern Lights isn’t just about pointing a camera at the sky—it requires the right equipment. The right tools not only make your footage look incredible but also enhance the entire experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the moment.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Camera: A full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera with excellent low-light performance is a must. Look for models with high ISO capabilities and minimal noise at higher settings- they’ll ensure your footage retains clarity and detail.
- Tripod: Stability is non-negotiable in low-light conditions. A sturdy tripod keeps your footage steady, even during longer exposures.
For camera settings, flexibility is crucial. The settings I use vary depending on the speed of the aurora—longer exposures work well for slower-moving arcs, while faster, dancing lights require shorter exposures to capture their movement sharply. I typically shoot at ISO 3200-6400 with an aperture between f/1.4 and f/2.8 and exposure times ranging from 2.5 to 6 seconds.
Creating Timelapse Magic
Watching the Northern Lights move across the sky is mesmerizing, but capturing its full effect often means stepping beyond traditional videography. This is where timelapse techniques shine. By condensing hours into just a few seconds, a timelapse reveals the subtle shifts and dynamic movements of the aurora in a way that feels natural and immersive.
Here’s how to set up your timelapse for success::
- Use an Intervalometer or Built-In Timer: These tools automate the process, ensuring consistent intervals between shots.
- Set Your Timing: Adjust intervals based on the aurora’s speed. For fast-moving lights, set shorter intervals (2–3 seconds). Slower, more fluid displays work well with intervals of 4–5 seconds.
- Stabilize Your Camera: A sturdy tripod is essential for keeping your footage steady during the long exposure times required for each frame.
- Adjust Camera Settings: Use ISO 3200–6400, an aperture of f/1.4–f/2.8, and exposure times of 2.5–6 seconds to capture sharp, vibrant images.
Once the timelapse frames are captured, combine them in post-processing software to create a seamless video. This approach captures the aurora’s motion in a way that a single frame never could, bringing its ethereal beauty to life.
Even though the aurora’s beauty speaks for itself straight out of the camera, thoughtful post-processing can take your footage to truly cinematic levels. From managing noise to fine-tuning color balance, a few deliberate adjustments can make all the difference.
Shooting in low light often introduces noise, but the right tools and techniques can minimize its impact:
- For Images or Timelapses: Lightroom’s built-in noise reduction tool is a reliable choice. Use it carefully to avoid compromising details. A critical tip is to avoid lifting the shadows excessively, as this can amplify hidden noise.
- For Video: The Neat Video plugin in DaVinci Resolve is excellent for noise reduction. It allows you to clean up your footage while maintaining image clarity, ensuring your final product looks polished.
Color Grading Tips
Footage of the Northern Lights usually requires minimal color grading because the natural colors are already vibrant and well-balanced. The goal is to enhance what you captured while staying true to the aurora’s authentic beauty.
Start by setting a neutral white balance that reflects what you saw with the naked eye during the shoot. Then, follow these steps:
- Adjust Exposure: Begin by increasing the exposure to highlight the aurora’s brilliance.
- Deepen Shadows: Darken the shadows to add depth and contrast.
- Reduce Noise: Apply quick noise reduction to maintain clarity.
- Fine-Tune Temperature and Tint: Adjust these settings to ensure the colors feel natural and balanced.
- Add Subtle Saturation: A light touch of saturation can elevate the colors without making them look artificial.
Once the basics are covered, make subtle enhancements to give your footage an ethereal, dreamlike quality while keeping its authenticity intact.
Wrapping Up
Filming the aurora isn’t just about getting the perfect shots—it’s about the experience of being there, standing under the vastness of the night sky, and witnessing something truly magical. It’s unpredictable, challenging, and sometimes frustrating, but that’s what makes it so rewarding when everything comes together.
If you’re excited to try your hand at filming the Northern Lights, I hope these tips help you feel more prepared to tackle the process. And if you’re looking to explore even more about photographing the night sky, check out my article on astrophotography—it’s full of practical advice for capturing stars, comets, and the Milky Way, and it pairs perfectly with what we’ve covered here.
The Aurora Borealis is one of those things that reminds us just how incredible our planet—and the universe—can be. So, when you hear that the lights might be out, grab your camera, bundle up, and see where the night takes you. You won’t regret it.
Benjamin Barakat, Astrophotographer
Benjamin Barakat is an internationally acclaimed astrophotographer celebrated for his breathtaking images of the cosmos. His work has been featured by esteemed outlets such as Forbes, National Geographic, CNN, and the BBC. With numerous accolades to his name, including the prestigious title of Milky Way Photographer of the Year for three consecutive years, Benjamin continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of astrophotography.