Aurora Reflectoins
The Aurora Borealis is reflected in Kashwitna Lake.
The Aurora Borealis is reflected in Kashwitna Lake.
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Sep, 2023Views
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Awards
Contest Finalist in All About The Night Photo Contest
Contender in the Photography Awards
Honorable Mention in Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 97
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Behind The Lens
Location
One of my favorite times to photograph the aurora is in late August and early September before the lakes freeze up. This time of year offers the chance to capture reflections of the aurora in the local lakes and ponds.Time
This photo was taken around 1 or 2 in the morning when there is full darkness.Lighting
This photo is helped by a full moon in back of me which helps to light up the foreground and gives more interest to the photo.Equipment
I am using a Canon EOS R6 on a tripod with a remote shutter release. ISO: 800, f2.8, 5 sec exposure. The lens is a Tokina 11-16 f2.8.Inspiration
I am always looking for ways to capture the aurora and this lake is one of my favorite stops on my aurora hunting trips.Editing
I have lightened the shadows a bit, as well as reducing the highlights to keep the aurora from being glaringly bright. I adjust the kelven to get a midnight blue sky, add medium contrast, as well as noise reduction and some sharpening.In my camera bag
I routinely carry my camera, a telephoto lens, a mid range lens and a 50mm lens. I change the 50mm lens for a macro if I am considering flowers or insect shoots. I also carry a circular polarizer, and a variable neutral density filter. For aurora chasing, I always have extra batteries as the cold eats my batteries faster. I have extra memory cards as well. I keep a remote shutter release handy and have the tripod attached to the bag when hiking.Feedback
When trying to capture the aurora, I scout out possible locations in the daylight to look for obstructions or other issues that may not be seen at night. The darker the location the better, so I avoid brightly lit areas. Watch NOAA data for aurora forecasting to know what nights to go out. The aurora can be fickle, and even if the forecast is good, it may only be seen for short periods. Pack a lot of patience and be prepared to stand around in the cold weather while waiting. Set most of your camera settings before going out, so you only need to make minor adjustments in the dark. Use a red light in a headlamp to help you see as it will not affect your night vision. Always use a tripod and remote shutter release to reduce camera shake an blurry photos.
