Mobile Photography
How to capture the northern lights with your phone
Auroras are dim, moving light. Your phone needs time and sensitivity to collect enough light. Here are the essentials:
Use a tripod or steady surface. Even tiny movement ruins the shot.
Turn off flash.
Avoid streetlights — they add glare.
Manually focus to infinity if possible.
Keep ISO moderate — too high = noisy images.
Take multiple shots — some will turn out better than others.
Most Android phones (Samsung, Pixel, etc.) have a "Pro" or "Manual" mode. If not, use an app like "ProCam X".
Recommended Aurora Settings:
Pro tip: If the aurora is very bright and moving fast, reduce shutter to 2–5 seconds to avoid overexposure or blur.
Option 1: Built-in Camera (Night Mode)
On iPhone 11 or newer, Night Mode activates automatically. Tap the "moon" icon and set exposure to max (up to 30s). Use a tripod.
Pro RAW: On iPhone 14/15 Pro, enable RAW mode for better editing flexibility.
Option 2: Manual Camera Apps
For more control, use apps like ProCam, Halide, or NightCap Camera.
NightCap Camera has a dedicated "Northern Lights Mode" that optimizes settings for you.
- Include foreground — a mountain, person, or lighthouse adds drama.
- Shoot landscape orientation to capture more of the sky.
- Try a few vertical shots if auroras rise high overhead.
- Take multiple exposures — the lights change every few seconds.
Use apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, or VSCO. Try these adjustments:
- Exposure: +0.3 to +1.0
- Contrast: +10 to +25
- Highlights: -30
- Clarity/Structure: +15
- Noise reduction: moderate
- Temperature: slightly cooler (4000–4500K)