Photograph the Northern Lights on iPhone

Modern iPhones capture the Northern Lights surprisingly well thanks to Night mode. With a steady hold and a few tweaks, you'll get colourful, shareable aurora photos.

Use Night mode

On iPhone 11 and newer, Night mode activates automatically in the dark. Tap the Night mode icon and drag the slider to the longest exposure (up to 10–30 seconds when on a tripod).

Keep it dead still

Rest the phone on a tripod, a wall or a bag — any movement blurs a long exposure. Use the 3-second timer so tapping doesn't shake it.

Settings that help

Turn off the flash, lock focus by tapping a distant light or star, and shoot in ProRAW if your model supports it for better editing. Keep the phone warm between shots — cold drains the battery fast.

On tour

Your guide on a photography tour will help you set it all up in the field.