📸 How to Photograph the Northern Lights with Your Smartphone

Capture Iceland’s celestial spectacle with ease—no fancy gear required!

🌌 General Tips for All Smartphones

Use a tripod or steady surface: The Northern Lights require long exposure. Even slight hand movement can blur your photo.

Turn off flash: It won’t help and may ruin the shot.

Avoid artificial light: Move away from streetlights, cars, or buildings to reduce light pollution.

Use manual or pro mode (if available): Adjust ISO, shutter speed, and focus manually for better results.

Dress warmly and be patient: The lights can be unpredictable—stay cozy and ready!

🍏 iPhone Instructions For iPhone 11 and newer (with Night Mode)

Open the Camera app and point it at the sky. Night Mode activates automatically in low light.

Look for the yellow moon icon.

Tap the moon icon to adjust exposure time (up to 30 seconds).

Hold your phone steady or use a tripod.

Tap the screen to focus manually, then press the shutter.

For older iPhones or more control: Download a third-party app like Slow Shutter Cam or NightCap Camera.

Set: ISO: 800–1600

Shutter speed: 15–30 seconds

Focus: Infinity

Use a tripod and remote shutter (or timer) to avoid shaking.

🤖 Android Instructions Using Pro or Manual Mode (available on most Samsung, Pixel, and OnePlus phones)

Open the Camera app and switch to Pro/Manual mode.

Adjust settings:

ISO: 800–1600

Shutter speed: 15–30 seconds

Focus: Set to infinity

White balance: Try around 2800–4000K

Use a tripod and tap the shutter button gently or use a timer.

If your phone doesn’t have Pro mode: Download apps like Camera FV-5, ProCam X, or Night Camera. These apps allow manual control over exposure and focus.

🧊 Bonus Tips

Best time: September to April, between 9 PM and 2 AM.

Check aurora forecast at vedur.is and aim for clear, dark nights between September and April.

Best locations: Þingvellir National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, or anywhere far from city lights.