Planning for Northern Lights adventures in 2024

At 50 Degrees North, the Northern Lights are one of the most popular and asked about aspects of travelling to the Nordic region. They captivate people due to their beauty, rarity, cultural significance, and the sense of wonder and awe they inspire. They offer a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of our planet and the universe in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally moving.

One of the best ways to see the Northern Lights is by joining a dedicated, several days long Northern Lights tour where the location and conditions have been carefully selected for the clients. And if capturing the lights on film is your main goal, then the ultimate Northern Lights tour is the 8-day Escorted Northern Lights Photography Tour.

So if you are passionate about catching the Aurora Borealis, below is some key information and advice for you.

AURORA TOURS

Choose the right location

In the Northern Hemisphere, the northern parts of Sweden, Finland, Norway, Iceland, Russia, Canada and Alaska as well as southern Greenland are ideal for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Additionally, you need to be in a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the northern horizon. Being away from city lights improves your chances of seeing and photographing the Northern Lights.

Time your shoot right

The best time to capture the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. More specifically, the Aurora lights are at their most frequent between the (northern hemisphere) autumn and spring equinox (21 September – 21 March). Also, while in the destination during that period of time, make sure to check local forecasts for aurora activity predictions and aim for clear, moonless nights.

Stay warm & practice patience

A key aspect of the experience is to dress in warm layers and bring gloves to stay comfortable. The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, and it might take time for a display to appear. Be patient and prepared to wait for the right moment.

Download some digital help

These days there are iPhone/Smartphone apps that can help you with capturing the Northern Lights. For example:
Northern Lights Photo Taker App (Apple iOS)
Cortex Camera (Apple iOS / Android)
NightCap Pro (Apple iOS)

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  But if you wish to survive without the help of dedicated apps, here are some key recommendations: Avoid any shaking! Either bring a tripod or place your phone / camera on the steady surface.
• Turn the flash off.
• Select night mode / cloudy setting.
• Set picture size and quality at maximum.
• Check that ISO is between 400 and 1600 (lower end for slow-moving Northern Lights and higher end for fast-moving ones).
• Set focus on the lights.

 
Good luck and please tag us on any successful photos!! #50degreesnorth

* 50 Degrees North, Level 3, 192 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands, Victoria, 3008 AU 50dn@mail.fiftydegreesnorth.com