lmevans
FollowNorthern Lights over Fort Wainwright, AK
Northern Lights over Fort Wainwright, AK
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Awards
Contest Finalist in Alaska The Wild Photo Contest
Member Selection Award
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Contest Finalist in Covers Photo Contest Vol 32
People's Choice in The Night Sky Photo Challenge
Peer Award
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Outstanding Creativity
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Behind The Lens
Location
The photo was taken at Chena Bend Golf Course, Fort Wainwright, AK. I am a self taught photographer & this was the 1st year I had the chance to see & capture the gorgeous Northern Lights.Time
I don't recall the exact time of day, but most of the shots I had taken of the Aurora were between 9pm and 2am, though I have gone out before then & at least once until 3:30am. It was worth it. I watched the aurora cams online & if there was even a glimpse of a chance that the lights would be out, I was out the door with layers on!Lighting
The golf course was super dark, so all of the lighting I needed was right there above me. Beautiful.Equipment
This was shot on a Canon 60D, with a 11-16mm lens f/2.8 lens & a tripod. No other equipment was needed.Inspiration
I had been in Alaska for a couple years and had never seen the aurora. I had only heard about the 'green streaks' in the sky. I saw them one night in the sky and it was more beautiful than expected. It was difficult to get the photos with all of the light pollution, so I searched for a dark place to try to get decent photos. Once there, the lights were even more beautiful and the more I saw of them, the more I fell in love with them! The Northern Lights had danced in the sky like nothing I had ever seen. Too gorgeous to even describe. There were moments that I did not even pay attention to the camera, as I just wanted to lay on the frozen ground and stare up into the starry sky. I love all of the beauty this world has to offer.Editing
At that time, I did not do any post-processing. I did not even attempt it until a few years ago and have played around with it a little. I brightened the scene a little & took out a lot of the noise.In my camera bag
I carry light now since the theft of my old gear. I keep in my bag my Canon 7D, & 18-135mm lens, charger, spare battery, cleaning equipment, an ND filter, and tripod.Feedback
Always be prepared! I had to brave the negative temperatures of Alaska to take the northern lights photos. Plan your wardrobe & dress in layers. You never know when the weather is going to change. Pack your gear early in case you have to run out the door. Be patient - the perfect shot takes time. Shoot everything! Practice makes perfect. And lastly, for all the landscape lovers, ENJOY THE VIEW!