Capture the Magic of the Aurora Borealis with These Expert Tips
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. With its dark skies, remote locations, and stunning landscapes, Iceland offers the perfect backdrop for capturing this natural wonder on camera. In this guide, we'll share our top tips for Northern Lights photography in Iceland, including the best locations, camera settings, and more.
Best Locations for Northern Lights Photography in Iceland
If you want to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, you'll need to head away from the city lights and find a dark, remote location. Some of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland include:
- Thingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just 40 minutes from Reykjavik and offers stunning views of the Northern Lights over the park's rugged landscapes.
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Located in the southeast of Iceland, this glacial lagoon is a popular spot for Northern Lights photography, thanks to its dark skies and stunning ice formations.
- Kirkjufell Mountain: This iconic mountain on Iceland's Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a popular spot for landscape photography, and it's also a great place to see the Northern Lights.
Camera Settings for Northern Lights Photography in Iceland
To capture the Northern Lights on camera, you'll need to use a tripod and a camera with manual settings. Here are some recommended camera settings for Northern Lights photography in Iceland:
- ISO: 800-1600
- Aperture: f/2.8-f/4
- Shutter Speed: 15-30 seconds
Other Tips for Northern Lights Photography in Iceland
- Dress warmly: It can get very cold in Iceland, especially at night, so be sure to dress in warm layers and bring plenty of hand warmers.
- Be patient: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and they can be unpredictable. Be prepared to wait for hours to see them, and don't be disappointed if they don't appear.
- Use a remote shutter release: This will help you avoid camera shake and ensure that your photos are sharp.
Conclusion
With its stunning landscapes and dark skies, Iceland is the perfect place to capture the magic of the Northern Lights on camera.
By following these tips for Northern Lights photography in Iceland, you'll be well on your way to capturing stunning images of this natural wonder. Remember to be patient, dress warmly, and experiment with different camera settings to find the perfect shot. With a little bit of luck and a lot of skill, you'll be able to create images that will last a lifetime.
If you're planning a trip to Iceland to see the Northern Lights, be sure to book your accommodations and tours in advance, as they can fill up quickly during peak season. And don't forget to bring plenty of memory cards and batteries for your camera, as you'll want to capture as many photos as possible of this incredible natural phenomenon.
We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your Northern Lights photography trip to Iceland. Happy shooting!