How to Capture Aurora Borealis on iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are planning on witnessing the mesmerizing display of Aurora Borealis, also known as Northern Lights, you might want to capture the moment and preserve it forever. However, capturing the beauty of such a phenomenon is not easy, especially if you don’t have a professional camera. But don’t worry, with some simple tips, you can capture Aurora Borealis on your iPhone too. In this article, we will guide you through some useful tips and tricks to capture the magic of Aurora Borealis on your iPhone.

Understanding Aurora Borealis

Before we dive into how to capture Aurora Borealis, let’s first try to understand what Aurora Borealis is. Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights is a natural light display that occurs in high-latitude regions, in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, resulting from the collision of charged particles with atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere. It is a rare and beautiful phenomenon that captures the imagination of people around the world.

Best Time and Location to Capture Aurora Borealis on iPhone

While Aurora Borealis is an unpredictable natural phenomenon, there are some steps you can take to increase your chances of witnessing and capturing it. The best time to spot Aurora Borealis is during the winter months, from September to April, mainly in the dark and clear nights. Also, try to choose a location away from city lights, as light pollution can affect the visibility of the Northern Lights. Some of the best places to witness and capture Aurora Borealis are Norway, Iceland, Canada, and Sweden.

Useful Tips and Tricks to Capture Aurora Borealis on iPhone

Now that we know when and where to capture Aurora Borealis, let’s dive into some tips and tricks to capture it on your iPhone.

1. Turn Off the Flash

Using the flash while capturing Aurora Borealis can ruin your photo. The flash will focus on the foreground and not on the Aurora Borealis, making it difficult to capture. To avoid any issues, simply turn off the flash and let the camera focus on the Northern Lights.

2. Use an App with Adjustable Settings

Using an app that allows you to control the camera settings can help you to capture better photos. You can try apps like ProCamera, VSCO, and Camera+2, which allow users to adjust settings like ISO, shutter speed, and focus, resulting in better quality photos in low light conditions.

3. Keep Your iPhone Steady

Keeping your phone steady is the most important aspect of capturing Aurora Borealis. If your phone shakes, your photos will get blurry, and you will not be able to capture the beauty of Aurora Borealis. You can use a tripod, or if you don’t have one, try to rest your phone on a sturdy surface like a rock, tree, or car.

4. Use the Right ISO and Shutter Speed Settings

Using the right ISO and shutter speed settings is essential to capturing Aurora Borealis. Lower ISO settings like 800 or 1600 will help you capture more detail and reduce noise in the image. Try to keep the shutter speed between 10-30 seconds, depending on the brightness of Aurora Borealis.

5. Use the Editing Tools

After capturing the image, try to use the editing tools on your phone to enhance the photo further. You can adjust the exposure, contrast, and brightness of the image to make it more appealing. You can use apps like Lightroom, Snapseed, or Darkroom to edit the image.

Conclusion

Capturing the beauty of Aurora Borealis on an iPhone is not an easy task, but with some simple tips and tricks, you can achieve great results. Remember to choose the right location and time, use an app with adjustable settings, keep your phone steady, use the right ISO and shutter speed settings, and finally, use the editing tools to enhance the photo. With little patience and skill, you can capture the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights and preserve it forever. Happy Shooting!

An Insider’s Guide to Tromsø: A Captivating Arctic Haven

Are you planning a trip to Tromsø, Norway, to capture the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis on your iPhone? Apart from the Northern Lights, Tromsø has a lot to offer, and this guide is your perfect companion to explore the town like a local. Here are some hidden gems, local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While Tromsø boasts popular tourist spots like Arctic Cathedral, Fjellheisen Cable Car, and polar museums, make sure you don’t miss these hidden gems. Take a stroll around Telegrafbukta, a charming and peaceful beach where locals spend their summer afternoons. Visit Perspektivet Museum, a non-traditional museum that explores Tromsø’s history through personal stories. Or venture to the top of Sollifjellet Mountain, a breathtaking landscape with panoramic views of the Arctic Circle.

Local Cuisine: A Multicultural Fusion

Tromsø’s cuisine is a fusion of Nordic, Sami, and international flavors that embody the city’s multiculturalism. Try Bidos, a traditional Sami stew made with reindeer meat, carrots, and potatoes, at RÅ Sushi or Roast, two of Tromsø’s most popular restaurants. For a local barbeque experience, head to Mathallen, an indoor food hall with many stalls serving many international cuisines. At Burgerklubben, indulge yourself with an exceptional burger and enjoy the cozy and relaxed atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences: Arctic Traditions and Contemporary Art

Tromsø is a hub of art and culture in the Arctic Circle. The city’s traditions and folklore have inspired many local artists, who incorporate them into their contemporary art. Visit the Northern Norwegian Art Museum to discover the best of contemporary art in the region. For traditional Sami culture, head to the Tromsø Lapland museum, where you can learn about Sami history, traditions, and craft. During the annual Sami Week, you can experience Sami culture at its best and participate in various activities, concerts, and celebrations.

Local History: Viking Sagas and Arctic Expeditions

Tromsø’s history dates back to the Viking Age when adventurous seafarers explored the Arctic seas. Tromsø’s harbor played a vital role in Arctic expeditions during the 18th and 19th century. Learn more about Tromsø’s maritime heritage at the Polar Museum or take a walking tour of the old town, where you can witness the stunning architecture from the past. Once you learn about the city’s tales, make sure to enjoy a drink at Skarven, a historic bar, and the oldest pub in Tromsø.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Arctic Adventures

Apart from capturing the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis, there are many unique experiences to enjoy in Tromsø that go beyond the conventional. Go dog sledding across the Arctic wilderness, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling at Tromsø Lapland. Or, try your luck at fishing like a local, with the help of experienced guides. During the summer, take a midnight sun kayak tour around the neighboring islands, where you can witness the most spectacular views.

Tromsø is a hidden gem in the Arctic Circle, with a rich cultural heritage, traditional food, and stunning landscapes. This insider’s guide will help you make the most of your Tromsø visit, and create memories that you will treasure for a lifetime.