How to Photograph the Northern Lights on Android/Samsung

Samsung Galaxy and many Android phones have a manual "Pro" mode that's perfect for the Northern Lights. A few settings and a steady hold are all you need.

Use Pro / Night mode

Open the camera's Pro mode (or Night mode). Set shutter to 8–15 seconds, ISO around 800–1600, and focus to manual infinity.

Steady and shoot

Mount the phone on a tripod or rest it on something solid, then use the timer so your tap doesn't cause shake. Shoot RAW if your phone offers it.

Adjust to the display

For a faint aurora, use a longer shutter (15–25s); for a fast, active display, shorten it (4–8s) so the curtains don't blur. Lower ISO if shots look grainy.

Battery in the cold

Keep the phone in an inner pocket between shots — Arctic cold drains batteries fast. A guide on a photography tour helps you dial it in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Samsung or Android phone capture the aurora?

Yes — use Pro or Night mode with a shutter of 8–15 seconds, ISO 800–1600 and manual infinity focus. Steady the phone on a tripod and use the timer.

What Pro mode settings work for the Northern Lights?

Start with an 8–15 second shutter, ISO 800–1600, manual focus at infinity, and RAW if available. Lengthen the shutter for faint auroras and shorten it for active, fast-moving ones.

Why do my aurora phone photos look blurry?

Usually camera shake during the long exposure. Use a tripod or solid surface and the timer, and make sure focus is locked to infinity rather than hunting in the dark.

Photograph the Northern Lights on Android

Use Pro / Night mode

Steady and shoot

Adjust to the display

Battery in the cold

Frequently Asked Questions

Master Aurora Photography