Photographing the Aurora

The aurora is one of nature's most beautiful dramas. Played against a cosmic backdrop, the colors and motions are often subtle and quick, but such a show is not difficult to photograph if strict attention is paid to certain procedures which are peculiar to auroral photography.

First, find someplace where you have a clear view of the sky and horizon, away from streetlights. You will need a sturdy tripod, a camera with an f/2.8 lens or faster, a high-speed black and white or color film, and a cable release. The wider angle lenses are easier to work with if they are fast enough.

Between 10:30 p.m. and midnight, you'll have the best chance of seeing the bright arcs and forms which are most photogenic. Pay attention to the foreground; it provides a stable means of composition and orientation, as well as an attractive setting. Use a "night light" in the foreground, such as a cabin window. Regular outside lights are too bright and may overexpose the film during the 3 to 30 seconds it takes to catch ordinary auroral arcs. These arcs follow a daily pattern, so if you notice a composition you missed, chances are it will occur again some other night.

Open the camera's shutter while the arcs are more or less stationary or "painted" across the sky. Too much motion during exposure results in blurry non-descript forms. Don't let the film and camera "cold soak" by standing out for hours. Put it in an airtight plastic bag before going inside so moisture from the warm air will not condense on the cold metal and rust some delicate part inside.

When the skies are clear, it's usually cold. If you can't dress warm enough for an hour's watch, plan on taking a walk, stopping now and then to watch the biggest show on earth.