Capturing the Aurora Borealis- A Step-by-Step Guide to iPhone Northern Lights Photography

How to Video Northern Lights on iPhone: Capturing the Ethereal Beauty of the Aurora Borealis

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs in the high-latitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere. These vibrant, swirling lights have captivated the imaginations of people for centuries. If you’re lucky enough to witness this ethereal beauty, you’ll want to capture it in a video. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to video the Northern Lights using your iPhone.

1. Choose the Right Time and Location

The first step to capturing the Northern Lights is to find the right time and location. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the months of September to April, when the sky is darker and the lights are more visible. To find a good location, use an aurora forecast app or website to check the current activity level of the Northern Lights in your area.

2. Prepare Your iPhone

Before heading out, make sure your iPhone is fully charged or have a portable charger on hand. Also, download a camera app that offers manual settings, such as ProCamera or Manual. These apps will give you more control over the exposure, focus, and white balance, which is essential for capturing the Northern Lights.

3. Adjust Your iPhone Settings

Open the camera app and switch to manual mode. Adjust the following settings to optimize your video:

– ISO: Increase the ISO to 800 or 1600 to capture more light, but be cautious as higher ISOs can introduce noise.
– Shutter Speed: Use a slow shutter speed, such as 1/15th of a second, to capture the movement of the lights.
– White Balance: Set the white balance to “Cloudy” or “Fluorescent” to ensure the colors of the Northern Lights are accurate.

4. Find a Good View

Look for a location with a clear view of the sky and minimal light pollution. If possible, find a place with a natural horizon, as this will help frame the Northern Lights in your video.

5. Frame the Shot

Use the rule of thirds to frame your shot. Divide the screen into nine equal parts, and place the Northern Lights at the intersection of the lines or along the thirds. This technique will create a more balanced and visually appealing composition.

6. Record the Video

Press the record button and start capturing the Northern Lights. Keep the camera steady, and be patient as the lights may take a few moments to appear. If the lights are very bright, you may need to adjust the exposure settings during recording to maintain the color accuracy.

7. Review and Edit

After recording, review your video to ensure the Northern Lights are visible and the colors are accurate. Use an editing app to trim the video, adjust the audio, and apply any desired filters or effects.

8. Share Your Experience

Once you’re satisfied with your video, share it with friends and family on social media or with aurora photography communities. Your video will surely inspire others to witness and appreciate the beauty of the Northern Lights.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to capture the mesmerizing Northern Lights using your iPhone and share this unforgettable experience with the world. Happy filming!