Understanding Aurora Activity
The KP Index
The KP index measures geomagnetic activity on a 0-9 scale:
- KP 0-2: Faint aurora, visible only in arctic regions
- KP 3-4: Good displays in Iceland, Norway, Alaska
- KP 5-6: Strong aurora, potentially visible in Scotland
- KP 7-9: Extreme events, visible at lower latitudes
Solar Cycle Timing
We’re currently approaching Solar Maximum (2024-2025), meaning exceptional aurora activity worldwide.
Essential Gear
Camera Requirements
- Full-frame sensor: Better high-ISO performance
- Manual mode: Essential for aurora exposure control
- Good high-ISO performance: Usable files at ISO 3200-6400
Lens Selection
- Focal length: 14-24mm for sweeping displays
- Maximum aperture: f/2.8 or faster (f/1.4 ideal)
- Manual focus ring: AF won’t work in darkness
Recommended Lenses
- Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art
- Sony 14mm f/1.8 GM
- Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8
- Canon RF 15-35mm f/2.8
Camera Settings by Aurora Intensity
Faint Aurora (KP 0-2)
- Aperture: Wide open (f/1.4-f/2.8)
- ISO: 3200-6400
- Shutter: 20-25 seconds
Moderate Aurora (KP 3-4)
- Aperture: f/2.8
- ISO: 1600-2500
- Shutter: 10-15 seconds
Active Aurora (KP 5-6)
- Aperture: f/2.8
- ISO: 1600
- Shutter: 6-10 seconds
Dancing/Corona Aurora (KP 7+)
- Aperture: f/2.8
- ISO: 2500-3200
- Shutter: 2-5 seconds
Critical: Fast-moving aurora requires shorter exposures to capture structure. Blurred aurora indicates too long a shutter speed.
Focus Techniques in Darkness
Method 1: Pre-Focus in Daylight
Set focus to infinity during daylight and tape the focus ring in place.
Method 2: Bright Star Focus
- Enable Live View
- Point at a bright star
- Zoom to 10x magnification
- Manual focus until star is pinpoint sharp
- Lock focus ring
Method 3: Distance Scale
If your lens has a distance scale, set to infinity (∞) and back off slightly.
White Balance
Recommended: 3200-3800K for natural aurora colors.
Auto white balance often adds too much warmth. Shooting RAW allows adjustment later, but getting it close in-camera helps with on-location review.
Composition Strategies
Include Foreground Interest
- Mountains and ridgelines
- Water for reflections
- Interesting rock formations
- Human figures for scale
- Icelandic church or cabin
The Reflection Shot
Still water doubles your aurora. Scout calm lakes and ponds during daylight.
Vertical vs. Horizontal
Don’t neglect vertical compositions—corona aurora displays often extend directly overhead.
Cold Weather Challenges
Battery Management
- Carry 4-6 fully charged batteries
- Keep spares warm in inside pocket
- Cold batteries recover when warmed
- Use battery grip for doubled capacity
Condensation Prevention
When returning indoors:
1. Place camera in sealed plastic bag
2. Let it warm slowly (30+ minutes)
3. Open bag only when equalized
Personal Gear
- Layered clothing system
- Hand warmers in gloves
- Warm boots rated to -30°C
- Balaclava or face covering
Best Locations Worldwide
Iceland
- Accessible, diverse landscapes
- September-March season
- Combine with other photography
Norway (Tromsø, Lofoten)
- Strong aurora corridor
- Dramatic fjord compositions
- Active culture and warmth
Finnish Lapland
- Glass igloos and unique stays
- Lower crowds than Iceland
- Consistent clear skies
Alaska (Fairbanks)
- Reliable aurora viewing
- North American option
- Long dark season
Post-Processing Aurora Images
The Temptation to Over-Saturate
Aurora greens photograph more vivid than the eye sees. Resist adding saturation—reduce it if anything.
Noise Reduction
High ISO night shots require careful noise reduction:
- Apply luminance NR judiciously
- Preserve aurora detail and star points
- Consider dedicated NR software (Topaz DeNoise)
Straightening Horizons
Night shooting in extreme locations leads to crooked horizons. Always check and correct.
Conclusion
Photographing the northern lights combines technical precision with unpredictable natural phenomena. Prepare thoroughly, dress warmly, and remain patient. The aurora operates on its own schedule—your job is simply to be ready when it performs.