Welcome to our blog, where we share insights into our unique approach to travel and photography. Here, we introduce breathtaking destinations and capture the beauty of nature through images that tell meaningful stories.
Whether you're looking for inspiration, travel tips, or simply stunning photography, our blog is your gateway to the wonders of the world around us.
The Untamed Storytellers: Photographing Finnish Predators in Their Element
A wolf and a brown bear in Finnish forest landscape
Rediscovering the Power of Context in Wildlife Photography
In today’s digital age, wildlife photography often leans into aesthetic perfection—blurred backgrounds and isolated subjects dominate the social media landscape. While these styles have their place, I find myself increasingly drawn to classic nature photography where the environment is not hidden, but celebrated. There’s something profoundly captivating about seeing Finnish predators such as wolves, bears, or wolverines in their authentic surroundings—immersed in the textures, colors, and contours of the wild North.
Backgrounds That Build Narrative
A clear and detailed background offers more than context—it becomes part of the story. Forest silhouettes, frost-laced undergrowth, or the golden dusk filtering through pines tell us something vital: these creatures are not props, but protagonists of a rich and fragile ecosystem. On our tours and workshops at Nordic Wildscape, we emphasize storytelling through photography. We encourage participants to capture not just an image, but a moment that evokes connection and meaning. The environment, when photographed intentionally, elevates the visual narrative in powerful ways.
A brown bear in the morning mist
Predators Under Pressure: A Call to Awareness
But the beauty we portray is in danger.
Predators play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Yet, across the globe, biodiversity is under immense threat. Habitat loss, climate change, and expanding human development have accelerated the decline of countless species. The intricate web of life—woven over millennia—is fraying. Apex predators, often misunderstood and vilified, are among the first to suffer.
A brown bear is eating a reindeer carcasse
Biodiversity in Decline: What’s Happening?
According to global conservation studies, Earth’s biodiversity is shrinking at an alarming rate. Scientists estimate that one million animal and plant species now face extinction, many within decades. Habitat destruction, pollution, and unsustainable resource use are eroding the diversity that underpins ecosystem resilience. When top predators vanish, entire food chains destabilize, affecting everything from vegetation to prey populations—and ultimately, human wellbeing.
Photography With Purpose: Telling Stories That Matter
That’s why our work as nature photographers matters. By sharing compelling images and stories, we help raise awareness and respect for wildlife. And when we present these photographs on platforms in social media, let’s choose to do so with purpose—highlighting not only the creature but the world it belongs to.
A brown bear on the swamp in Finland at the golden hour
Support Through Photography: Join the Conservation Effort
🌿 Did you know that by joining one of our Nordic Wildscape tours, you're actively supporting nature conservation? We donate a portion of all profits from our photography trips to protect Nordic wildlife through a trusted Finnish Nature Rights -organization (Suomen Eläinoikeusjuristit). Every trip you take, contributes directly to safeguarding the habitats and lives of the animals we cherish and photograph.
Brown bear showing the tongue and telling us that now it is time to act!
So come along and be part of a meaningful journey—where each photo you take helps tell an important story of the Nordic wilderness.
Black Grouse Lekking – A Nordic Dance Captured Through the Lens
Black Grouse lekking photography is fantastic and affordable way to experience the wildlife in Northern Finland. Ask more and rent a hide from Nordic Wildscape!
Nordic Wildscape offers affordable photography sessions during early Spring and in Autumn near Syöte National Park.
As spring breaks over Syöte’s snowy ridges and autumn cloaks the forest in amber stillness, the lekking of black grouse becomes an electrifying spectacle. On quiet forest openings, the males gather to strut, hiss, and bubble in hopes of attracting a mate – not just a mating ritual, but a drama of sound and movement played against the rising sun.
Black Grouse photography tent hides offer affordable way for bird photography in Syöte area, near the Syöte National Park in Northern Finland.
From a camouflaged tent you have a view from inside the tent around you to straight ahead and to both sides.
You should join us with your camera precisely when the lek reaches its peak intensity. These sessions are conducted in one-person, low-angle, tent hides, offering quiet solitude and a focused space to capture the moment. From the shelter of the hide, photographers witness this primal ballet in golden morning light. The crisp air and quiet anticipation give way to flapping wings and fierce displays.
A Black Grouse male behind the small bush near Syöte National Park in Pudasjärvi, Finland.
Spring offers vibrant action and cinematic silhouettes, while the autumn lek provides calm, contemplative energy – both seasons delivering distinctive tones and moods for the discerning photographer. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife shooter or a newcomer seeking natural beauty, this encounter will stay etched in your memory—and in your photos.
A Black Grouse male portrait.
Photographing black grouse at the lek is more than capturing a bird. It’s about slowing down, waiting patiently, and letting nature write its story right before your lens. Join us and step into one of the Nordic wild’s most iconic scenes. Ask more from the contact page and get the price and instructions.
Black Grouse male is a great, interesting bird! We are happy to give you the opportunity to photograph them in Syöte area in Pudasjärvi.
Remember our Log Cabin in Syöte
Taigalampi Cabin – Your Cozy Hideaway in Syöte
Nestled on the edge of a tranquil forest pond near Syöte National Park, Taigalampi Cabin offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers alike. Surrounded by taiga forest and the quiet rhythms of northern nature, the cabin features comfortable amenities, modern touches, and an authentic wilderness atmosphere—perfect for recharging between photography sessions.
Whether you’re here to capture the magic of black grouse lekking or explore the boreal landscapes and the magical Northern Lights, Taigalampi is your base for immersion and inspiration. Read more and book https://taigavire.fi/en_US/accommodation-in-syote/taigalampi-cabin
Welcome to our Taigalampi Cabin in Syöte, Pudasjärvi, Northern Finland.
Hornøya: A Symphony of Wings at the Edge of Norway
Nestled in the far northeastern reaches of Norway lies a real treasure for birdwatchers and nature photographers alike—Hornøya Island. Our recent photography expedition to the Varanger Peninsula offered one of the most captivating wildlife experiences I’ve ever had, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone with a passion for seabirds and Nordic beauty.
Razorbill on it’s own throne in Hornøya Island
The Journey Begins in Vardø
We set off from the quaint harbor of Vardø aboard a sturdy rib boat, slicing through gentle summer waters on a 15-minute ride toward Hornøya. The weather smiled on us—calm seas and golden skies, the kind of Arctic summer day that feels like nature's private invitation.
A short boat trip to Hornøya begins from the harbor.
Welcome to Bird Paradise
Stepping onto Hornøya is a full-sensory immersion. You're greeted not just by the calls of tens of thousands of seabirds but by the salty tang of the sea and the earthy scent of guano—a signature perfume of any true seabird haven :)
Welcome to the Island! The birds, cormorants and black guillemots appear unbothered by human presence on the island.
The trail across the island loops around the northern side, passing under dramatic cliffs that eventually lead to the Vardø Lighthouse, perched 65 meters above sea level on the island’s highest point. From there, the panorama is unforgettable: rocky shores, wide skies, and feathered silhouettes in constant motion.
Birdlife Beyond Imagination!
Hornøya and the Vardø area are home to an astonishing array of species.
Among the stars are:
- Cormorants (Great & European Shag)
Cormorant landing in early spring weather conditions
- Razorbills and Puffins, charismatic icons of the north
Atlantic Puffin has something to say to me!
- Guillemots (Black-legged and Brünnich's)
Common & Brünnich’s Guillemots
- King Eiders and Steller’s Eiders
- Common Eiders, Long-tailed Ducks
Common eider in flight
- Great Black-backed, Glaucous, and Herring Gulls
- Black-legged Kittiwakes and Purple Sandpipers
Black-legged kittiwake looking to the sea. The best place for kittiwakes is the island of Ekkerøy, which belongs our tour’s must visit - places in Varanger.
- Occasionally, even a Grey Seal might grace the shoreline with a curious glance
These birds, habituated to human presence, allowed us incredible photo opportunities—from intimate close-ups to dramatic flight shots against the wall, sea and sky.
Sunset, Silence, and Shots
For those craving blue or golden-hour magic, there's even the chance to stay overnight in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage near the summit. Watching the Arctic sun dip low on the horizon while thousands of birds settle in around you—it’s the kind of moment that imprints itself on your soul.
Razorbill in sunset light in Varanger
If this taste of Hornøya has you dreaming of windswept islands and chattering seabird colonies, our future expeditions await. Bring your lenses, your curiosity, and a love for the wild.
Chasing the Arctic Fox: First Days on our Midnight Sun -trip
White-tailed Eagles on the Barents Sea coast in Varanger Peninsula.
Into the North: Setting Off from South Lapland
A warm departure and the call of the Arctic beyond the horizon.
Our recent expedition with a small group to Norway’s far northeast was nothing short of magical—a blend of discovery, wildlife, and Nordic charm. Departing from Finnish Lapland in the gentle warmth of 18°C, we set our sights northward toward the dramatic fjords of Varanger.
Roadside Charms and First Encounters
Café stops, Lappish delights—and a surprise sighting in the treetop!
We made leisurely stops along the way, stretching our legs and savoring Lappish delicacies in cozy roadside cafés. Just before reaching Sodankylä, we were greeted by our energetic companion, Pena the husky, for a refreshing walk along a hidden nature trail. That stroll delivered our first wild surprise—atop a tall Arctic pine, a majestic Northern Hawk Owl watched us from its lofty perch.
Pena-Husky in Lapland, on a nature trail, somewhere near Sodankylä town.
Fjordside Hospitality in Vestre Jakobselv
Warm meals and a Northern welcome in a tucked-away fishing village.
In Sodankylä, we stayed the night in a delightful local cabin that wrapped us in its rustic tranquility. Morning brought new excitement as we continued toward the Varangerfjord and the charming fishing village of Vestre Jakobselv. There, we enjoyed a hearty meal and settled into our welcoming accommodations, ready for our next big moment: the chance to spot the elusive Arctic fox!
The Arctic Fox Appears
A thrilling and rare moment of wildlife connection.
And fate smiled on us. No sooner had we reached the potential viewing site than an Arctic fox appeared—close and curious. Though its visit was brief, it was enough to ignite our spirits. Dressed in camouflage and full of anticipation, we quietly waited for another glimpse. By this point in the evening, the temperature had dropped to around 7°C, and a brisk southeasterly wind made the weather feel quite chilly.
While the fox didn’t return, the tundra revealed its rich life. We observed species iconic to this region—the elegant long-tailed skua, the commanding white-tailed eagle, and flocks of sea birds along the Barents Sea coast.
A long-tailed skua on the hunt.
Arctic Fox in Tundra - maybe you get a bit closer on our next trip?!
Wonderful but short meeting - bye! See you next time!
Beautiful flock of Common Merganser on the Barents Sea.
Memory Cards Full, Spirits High
A fulfilling day of sightings, stories, and wild snapshots.
Hours melted away as our cameras clicked and memories were made. Our memory cards filled quickly with stunning portraits of northern wildlife—and that single, lucky capture of the Arctic fox, a dream for any nature photographer.
A Photographer looking for a target species in Varanger Peninsula.
As the day drew to a close, we returned to our lodge—grateful, exhilarated, and already dreaming about our next Arctic escape. And the next day, early in the morning, we had a wonderful meeting with a red fox near our accommodation!
Where Nature Tells My Story: Meet Janne with Pena-husky on Tour!
Janne, owner, photographer, entrepreneur & Pena - husky
Meet Janne
Hello, my name is Janne. I’m a qualified professional photographer, adventure guide, and tourism professional (BBA in Hospitality Management). I’ve dedicated my adult life to capturing the wonders of the natural world – and I truly believe in its power to inspire, restore, and reconnect.
With years of experience leading groups in the wild, safety is always my top priority. Before this path, I trained and worked as a professional chef, so I love creating hearty, nourishing meals for our tours.
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Nordic Wildscape proudly holds the Good Travel Seal certification and is part of Visit Finland’s Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) program.
Me and my dog, we are on photography tour in Lyngen area in Norway.
Photography is at its best when it’s a shared experience. I’ve spent years immersed in the art of capturing wild nature – but what brings me even more joy is helping others discover their own creative voice. On our tours, I guide you technically, but more importantly, I encourage you to slow down, observe deeply, and tell your unique story through images.
Hiking to the mountains :) It was a wonderful day with Pena and the great landscape photography!
Whether you're just starting out or refining your skills, I’ll meet you where you are – with practical tips, constructive feedback, and real presence in the field. Every journey is a chance to grow, and I’m here to support that growth.
Hikers in Lyngen Alps.
The Power of Storytelling Photography: Creating Meaningful Visual Narratives
Geese flying on the sea in the Northern Norway
Our tours and services for photographers
For those seeking guidance or wishing to maximize their wildlife or landscape photography experience, Nordic Wildscape offers a range of photography tours and services. In Southern Lapland, Eastern Finland, Northern Norway, or other Scandinavian countries, through our cooperation with local tourism operators and specialists, we offer comprehensive photo tours that cater to beginners, amateurs, and professional photographers. These tours provide not only access to prime locations but also the expertise of seasoned guides who understand the behaviours and patterns of the local nature.
Guided tours are an excellent way to ensure ethical wildlife photography, as guides help navigate the terrain responsibly, ensuring minimal disturbance to the animals. The tours often include hide photography, where photographers can capture intimate portraits of wildlife from concealed locations, allowing for authentic and undisturbed images.
Sometimes the hide photography is the safest, easiest and most comfortable way to capture the wildlife.
Storytelling Photography
Storytelling photography goes beyond capturing isolated moments—it weaves images into a compelling narrative that evokes emotions, conveys messages, and connects with viewers on a deeper level. Rather than focusing solely on aesthetics, this approach prioritizes the story behind the image, allowing photographers to craft visual experiences that resonate.
For photographers, storytelling photography enhances creativity and purpose. It encourages intentional composition, thoughtful framing, and an understanding of the subject’s context, leading to more meaningful and impactful work. It also improves communication skills, as photographers must think about how their images convey emotions and narratives without words.
For those who see the difference
For audiences, storytelling photography fosters engagement and emotional connection. A well-crafted photographic story can inspire, inform, and provoke thought, transporting viewers into the scene and helping them experience moments and perspectives they might never have encountered otherwise. In a world filled with fleeting images, storytelling photography ensures that photographs have lasting significance.
Lighthouse captured on the winter photography trip in Norway.
By mastering this approach, photographers elevate their work beyond simple documentation, creating images that truly move and inspire. I hope we meet on our trips on the Nordic Wildscape.
Choose your time: Optimal Seasons for Wildlife Photography
Timing is crucial when planning a landscape or wildlife photography expedition. Each season brings its charm and opportunities for capturing the natural world. Spring, with its vibrant hues and renewed life, offers a chance to photograph animals as they emerge from their winter slumber. Bears can often be seen with their cubs, and migrating birds return, filling the skies with new life.
A swan, Finnish national bird, swimming in the lake in May.
Summer provides long daylight hours, known as the Midnight Sun, allowing photographers to explore the best wildlife spots without the pressure of dwindling light. This season is perfect for capturing the lush greenery and the bustling activity of animals taking advantage of the warmer weather.
A night shot of the wolf male in the beginning of summer.
Autumn transforms the landscape into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. The rutting season for moose and deer offers unique behavioural photography opportunities.
Autumn covers the landscape to wonderful colors in South Lapland
Winter, while challenging, rewards the adventurous with ethereal scenes of snow-covered forests and the possibility of photographing wildlife against the stark, white landscape. The Northern Lights may also grace the night skies, adding a magical touch to any nature photographer's portfolio.
Northern lights hunting tour in South Lapland.
Dressing for Success: Essential Clothing for Bird & Landscape Photography in Winter
Venturing into the stunning wilderness of Finnish Lapland, Eastern Finland, or Varanger, Northern Norway, in winter, is an unforgettable experience, especially for bird photographers eager to capture Arctic species in their natural habitat. However, the harsh northern climate demands proper clothing to ensure both comfort and endurance while out in the field.
Layering is key: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep dry, followed by an insulating mid-layer to retain warmth. A high-quality windproof and waterproof outer shell is essential to protect against unpredictable weather conditions, including snow, wind, and sudden temperature shifts. We recommend a white or snow-camo outer layer.
A photographer with a rucksack, several layers inside, and a winter camo outer shell on top.
Feet & hands
For footwear, opt for insulated, waterproof boots to keep your feet warm during long hours in snowy or damp terrain. Thermal socks and gaiters provide extra protection against cold and moisture.
Hands and head mustn’t be overlooked—wear thick gloves or combination of woolen or fleece gloves and a core mittens that allow for dexterity when handling camera equipment, and use a balaclava or insulated hat to prevent heat loss.
A well-prepared photographer with a right clothing for an arctic photo-trip.
Comfort and mobility are just as important as warmth. Choose clothing that allows easy movement, ensuring you can react quickly when that perfect shot presents itself. With the right gear, you’ll be well-prepared to capture the breathtaking beauty of Varanger’s birdlife while staying warm and focused.
Fuel for the Cold: The Importance of Food and Hydration in Winter Photography
A winter photography trip in Scandinavia is a breathtaking adventure, but freezing temperatures and long hours outdoors demand proper nourishment and hydration to keep energy levels high.
Cold weather increases calorie consumption as the body works harder to stay warm. Packing high-energy, nutrient-rich foods like nuts, dried fruit, protein bars, and warm meals ensures sustained energy throughout the day. Hot drinks, such as tea or coffee, help maintain warmth and comfort in the field. Normally, we carry the soup lunch with us in the soup thermos bottle. Hot soup and sandwiches during the day have been a hit during our trips!
Photographer capturing the Lapland landscape in very cold temperatures.
Staying hydrated is just as essential. Even in cold temperatures, dehydration can occur, impacting focus and endurance. Drinking enough water—preferably warm or insulated to prevent freezing—helps maintain circulation and concentration.
A well-fueled and hydrated photographer stays sharp, alert, and ready to capture the magic of winter landscapes and wildlife, making proper nutrition an essential part of any Arctic expedition.
Making Your Tour Comfortable: Essential Gear for Capturing Wildlife
Equipping yourself with the right gear is vital for a successful wildlife photography trip. A sturdy DSLR or mirrorless camera with a fast telephoto lens is recommended to capture the fast-paced action and the intricate details of the wildlife. A prime or zoom lens with a focal length of 300mm or more will allow you to photograph animals from a safe distance without disturbing them.
A bird photographer in Lapland with a 150 - 500 zoom lens.
Tripods or monopods are essential for stabilizing your camera, especially during low-light conditions or when using long lenses. Consider weather-resistant gear to protect your equipment from unpredictable weather conditions, particularly during the wetter seasons.
A tele-zoom lens with weather-resistant lens cover - and a great tit with it!
Photographer Lubos Houska
Investing in quality binoculars can enhance your wildlife-spotting abilities, helping you locate subjects before setting up your shot. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as the remote locations may not offer easy access to recharging facilities.
Binoculars are great add to your bucket list for a wildlife tour.
Spreading the good word: Conservation Efforts and Ethical Photography
Conservation is at the heart of our mission in Nordic Wildscape. Our company works diligently to protect the unique ecosystems of Northern territories, ensuring that the natural beauty that attracts wildlife photographers remains unspoiled for generations to come. As photographers, we have a responsibility to practice ethical photography, respecting the habitats and behaviours of the wildlife we capture through our lenses.
Nature photographer in the boat photographing the Saimaa ringed seal.
Adhering to ethical guidelines, such as maintaining a safe distance, avoiding nesting or den areas, and respecting the natural behaviours of animals, ensures that our presence does not negatively impact the ecosystem. By participating in guided tours, photographers can learn about and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts, supporting the local communities and the sustainability of the region.
We found it lying on the rock! It is nice to have a quiet electric boat for a photography trip.
For example, Saimaa Lakeland, Kuhmo and Suomussalmi in Finland and Northern Norwegian nature offer rich wildlife and cultural experiences, positioning themselves as tranquil alternatives to the bustling tourist spots in Lapland. Whether you're drawn by the promise of rare wildlife encounters, the allure of unspoiled landscapes, or the vibrant cultural heritage, these regions invite you to escape to nature and rediscover the essence of life in the heart of the area.
The Saimaa Ringed Seal (Pusa hispida saimensis) is one of the rarest seals in the world. Around 480 seals remain in Lake Saimaa, Finland. There is still plenty of work to be done to protect this species that remains on the verge of extinction.
Wildlife, Landscape and the Culture: Unique Experience in the North
The Unique Experience in the North
The Northern Territories, a hidden gem in the world, offer a remarkable setting for nature, wildlife, and landscape photographers. Nestled within the enchanting Lapland and Northern Scandinavia region, the northern areas boast an unparalleled biodiversity that draws photographers from around the globe. The tundra, taiga, sea coast, dense forests, serene lakes, and sprawling wetlands create a perfect habitat for various species. Here, nature photography enthusiasts can capture the majestic brown bear, the elusive wolf, hundreds of Arctic birds, reindeer, and the graceful moose, all set against the backdrop of pristine wilderness.
Wild brown bear photographed in Eastern Finland ©Janne Autere
The enchanting melody of birdsong fills the air, with species such as the golden eagle and the capercaillie making their homes in this lush landscape. The untouched terrain allows photographers to document the dance of nature in its purest form, where the cycle of life unfolds undisturbed. For example, Eastern Finland’s Kuhmo's unique ecosystem, complemented by the tranquillity of Suomussalmi, offers an experience that rivals the more popular Lapland but with fewer crowds and more intimate wildlife encounters.
Explaining the Northern Lights and photography
Understanding the Aurora Borealis
Often referred to as the Northern Lights, the Aurora Borealis is a mesmerising natural phenomenon gracing the northern hemisphere's night skies. This spectacle is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with the Earth's atmosphere, resulting in a dance of lights across the sky. Capturing this celestial ballet requires more than just a good camera; it demands understanding the science behind the phenomenon, and this way, you can get the most beautiful captures of it!
Northern Lights, Aurora borealis in Syöte, South Lapland ©Janne Autere
The Aurora Borealis is most commonly seen in northern regions around the Arctic. However, its appearance is not guaranteed, as it depends on solar activity and bright sky conditions. This unpredictability is part of its charm and excitement, making each experience unique. For those interested in venturing out to capture its brilliance, understanding the optimal conditions and planning the photography session is essential.
Best locations for the Northern Lights
When it comes to Northern Lights photography, location is key. While Rovaniemi and Northern Lapland are popular destinations for Aurora enthusiasts, the regions of South Lapland offer equally enchanting experiences with a fraction of the crowd. Nestled within Pudasjärvi, Ranua, and Posio, these areas provide a serene backdrop of untouched wilderness and cultural heritage. For example, you can find many interesting Instagram feeds about the Aurora photography from these areas like: https://www.instagram.com/j.autere/
Bus stop under the Northern lights in South Lapland ©Janne Autere
During our nature and landscape photography tours and workshops it is more than usual that between the bird, whale or mammal photography in Northern territories you have great opportunities for capturing the Northern lights.
Pudasjärvi, Taivalkoski, Kuhmo, and Suomussalmi are ideal for those seeking tranquility and different kinds of photography opportunities. Here, the absence of light pollution enhances the visibility of the night sky, making it a perfect spot for capturing the Northern Lights. We, for example, offer Arctic Wolf & Auroras - an active photography tour where you can enjoy the auroras, stargazing, and wildlife on the same tour. Moreover, the regions boast vibrant cultural offerings, from traditional Finnish food to historical landmarks, adding depth to your travel experience.
By positioning the South Lapland or Kainuu area, as we call the Arctic Lakeland, as complementary destinations to Lapland, travellers are encouraged to explore these hidden gems in Eastern Finland, where they can enjoy the magic of the Aurora Borealis amidst a stunning natural backdrop.
Essential camera gear for capturing the Northern Lights
To embark on a successful Northern Lights photography adventure, having the right camera gear is crucial. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings capability is recommended, as these allow for greater control over exposure, ISO, and aperture. A wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or lower) is ideal for capturing expansive sky scenes and maximizing light intake.
Investing in a high-quality tripod is non-negotiable, as stability is essential for the long exposure shots needed to capture the Aurora. Additionally, consider bringing extra batteries and memory cards, as cold temperatures can drain battery life, and you'll want ample storage for your night sky photography endeavours.
Camera, wide-angle objective, and a tripod on the night photography trip ©Janne Autere
A remote shutter release or a two-second delayed shutter release can also be beneficial, preventing camera shake during exposure and allowing for time-lapse sequences of the Aurora Borealis. You can control the two-second shutter release more easily than the five or ten-second delay. Ensuring your gear is well-equipped for the unique challenges of night photography will enhance your chances of capturing stunning images. We are ready to help you get your best pictures of the Northern lights.
Camera settings for Northern Lights photography
Choosing the best camera settings for Northern Lights photography is integral to capturing the phenomenon's vibrant colors and intricate details. Start by setting your camera to manual mode to have complete control over your settings. Set the ISO between 2500 and 3200, depending on the brightness of the Aurora and ambient light conditions. A higher ISO increases sensitivity to light, but be cautious of introducing noise.
Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) to allow maximum light through the lens, and set your shutter speed between 3 and 15 seconds. The optimal shutter speed will vary based on the intensity and movement of the Aurora; faster movement may require shorter exposures to avoid blurring the lights.
A lady under Auroras in Syöte Finland ©Janne Autere
Focus your lens manually to infinity, and use live view mode to fine-tune the focus on a bright star or distant light source. Experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance for your specific conditions, and remember to review your shots periodically to make necessary adjustments.
Techniques for capturing stunning Aurora photos
Beyond camera settings, several techniques can elevate your Aurora photography. Composition is key; include natural elements like trees, mountains, or lakes in the foreground to add depth and context to your images. These elements not only anchor the scene but also provide a sense of scale against the vastness of the sky.
Northern Lights reflects from the Lake in Finland ©Janne Autere
Experiment with various perspectives and angles to create dynamic compositions. Leading lines, such as a winding river or a road, can draw the viewer's eye towards the Aurora, making for a more interesting image. Be patient and ready to adapt because the Aurora's movement and intensity can change quite quickly.
Consider using a time-lapse technique to capture the Aurora's movement over time. This involves taking multiple exposures over a period and combining them into a short video, allowing you to showcase the dynamic dance of the lights uniquely.
Post-processing for Northern Lights images
Post-processing is an essential step in refining your Aurora Borealis images. By using software like On1 Photo Raw https://www.on1.com/products/photo-raw/ like I use, it is easy to adjust exposure, contrast, and colour balance. Enhancing these aspects can bring out the vivid hues and details of the Northern lights.
Be cautious not to over-process; maintaining the natural beauty of the Aurora should be the goal. Use noise-reduction, which is built, for example, inside the On1 Photo Raw, to minimize the noise introduced by high ISO settings, and consider adjusting the clarity and sharpness to enhance the overall image quality. The noise reduction also makes your photos sharper in any case.
Finally, crop and straighten your images to improve composition and remove any distractions from the frame. With thoughtful post-processing, your Northern Lights photos can transform from simple captures into stunning works of art that beautifully convey the magic of the Aurora Borealis.