have visited this beautiful arctic beach in Norway many times, but last week, I had a magical moment before the thick cloud blanket rolled in... Lady Aurora da...
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have visited this beautiful arctic beach in Norway many times, but last week, I had a magical moment before the thick cloud blanket rolled in... Lady Aurora danced for me at this amazing heart-shaped stone! It lasted a few minutes only, but what a treat! We need to appreciate every moment during these difficult times and I am thankful I could travel so much this year!
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Awards
Runner Up in Aurora Chasers Photo Contest
Contest Finalist in Night Time Photo Contest
Curator's Selection
Top Shot Award 22
Contest Finalist in Enchanted Nights Photo Contest
Honorable Mention in Creative Compositions Photo Contest Vol9
Peer Award
Absolute Masterpiece
Superb Composition
Magnificent Capture
Outstanding Creativity
Top Choice
Superior Skill
All Star
Genius
Virtuoso
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EpicByErika
November 26, 2020
thank you! That beach is truly wonderful! Also many locals go there for BBQ, the benches are nicely set so that everyone can enjoy the views!
P-Squared
September 23, 2021
I watch a live stream of the aurora lights on YouTube all the time and dream of being able to photograph them one day! This picture is magical!
SherrieMosher
April 01, 2022
An amazing capture, I love the heart shaped rock but I'm equally curious about the circular formation of stones to the right.
Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
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Behind The Lens
Location
This photograph was taken at Uttakleiv beach in Lofoten, Norway. The Aurora is dancing above the heart-shaped rock on this beautiful arctic beach.Time
This image was taken approximately an hour after the sunset, just as the sky turned dark enough to capture the dancing Aurora.Lighting
Almost an hour after the sunset, the sky still had the red glow from the setting sun towards the west. I was hoping the Aurora will start to dance in a low arch from east to west facing north.Equipment
I used my Canon EOS 5DMkIV full-frame camera with a Zeiss18mm 2,8 wide angle lens and a sturdy Really Right Stuff tripod. This was a 13s exposure at f2.8, ISO 3200.Inspiration
The forecast for the Northern Lights was incredible that evening, but the weather forecast expected clouds later at night. My friends had a very long discussion in the car about where to go. Knowing how unpredictable the arctic weather can be, I felt I had to make a quick decision. I asked them to drop me off at my favourite arctic beach. I saw the heart-shaped stone the day before, and I wished to capture the lights dancing around it! As soon as I set up my tripod and found my desired composition, the mystical green lights lit up the sky! The show lasted a few minutes only, but what a treat!Editing
Three long exposures for the foreground, to reduce noise and shorter exposure to capture the structure of the lights. The final image is a blend of these two, the composition remained the same, images taken at the same time. Adjustments of highlights, shadows, colour correction and noise reduction applied.In my camera bag
Whenever I am planning to shoot outdoors, I usually carry my full-frame Canon R5 or 5D MkIV camera with the 16-35mm wide angle lens in my bag. If there is a chance to spot wildlife, I also pack the 100-400mm lens, as I love animals! I am a big fan of long exposure shots of running water or moving clouds. Therefore you can always find several neutral density filters as well as a polariser in my backpack. Spare batteries and memory cards are a must!Feedback
Patience and preparation. I tried to capture the northern lights many times before with no success. At the very beginning, years ago, I was struggling to set up my camera in the dark. Rule number one: know your camera even blindfolded- trust me, you can train it at home!:) If you are not sure, set up the camera beforehand. Zoom in the lens to infinite so that the stars are sharp (u can either mark it on your lens or use a tape to make sure you will not move the zoom ring), set the aperture to 2.8 and ISO around 3200 in Manual mode. You will play with the shutter speed based on the intensity of the lights - start with 10-15 seconds and check the result. Set your camera display brightness to a minimum at home, so that it does not disturb your night vision. A sturdy tripod is a must! Check the weather and the aurora forecast. I use many applications on my phone, which are also sending me alerts. Dress warm, don't forget the gloves and spare batteries. Live view and the cold will drain the batteries quickly. Be patient! And if the if you struggle to capture the lights, don't stress, just sit back, look up and don't miss the show!