A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is ideal. Use a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod to keep your shots steady.
Choose a dark, clear night away from city lights. Northern regions like Norway, Iceland, and Alaska offer great views.
Set your camera to manual mode. Use a low aperture (f/2.8 or lower), high ISO (1600-3200), and a long exposure (10-30 seconds).
Switch to manual focus and set your lens to infinity. Use live view to fine-tune the focus on distant stars.
Prevent camera shake by using a remote shutter release or the camera’s self-timer function.
Wear warm clothing and be prepared to wait. The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, but patience pays off.
Try different settings and compositions. Capture reflections in water or include foreground objects to add depth to your photos.