benjamin_alcocer

Dancing Lights

The aurora dances over kirkjufell almost immediately after sunset.

The aurora dances over kirkjufell almost immediately after sunset.
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SONY ILCE-7M2

settings

ISO 1000 Shutter 15/1

upload_date

Aug, 2017

Views

445

Likes

+48

Awards

Creative Winter Award

Curator's Selection

Legendary Award

Contest Finalist in Mountains And The Night Photo Contest

Peer Award

Absolute Masterpiece

Outstanding Creativity

Superb Composition

All Star

Top Choice

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Behind The Lens

Location

This photo was taken at the famous Kirkjufell near grundarfjörður in Iceland in March of 2017; during my first and only trip (so far) to Iceland.

Time

This shot was taken during twilight, very shortly after the sun dropped below the horizon. It was the last day of our 5 day Iceland trip and we were determined to get once more chance to shoot the northern lights. That morning we actually hiked and climbed on the Vatnajökull glacier to shoot ice caves which is still to this day one of my favorite all time photography experiences. Upon finishing our glacial trek I checked the weather and aurora forecast. The Kp index was project to be a 7+ which is very good, however most of the island was also forecast to have thick cloud cover which would obstruct any views of aurora activity. There was a small area that according to the Icelandic weather service might be cloud free, but it was an eight hour drive away... After grabbing a cup of coffee to go we were off. My girlfriend slept while I raced across the barren Icelandic countryside dreaming of the potential for another northern lights shot. We pulled up just as the sun was setting and sure enough behind us was all clouds, but there were clear skies to the West. Almost immediately after the sun dropped the show began. The lights danced all night providing us with an amazing display and ample photographic opportunities.

Lighting

I have been lucky enough to shoot more dramatic aurora displays and have come up with more creative compositions, but what I really love about this shot is the experience of getting it and the uniqueness of the light. I have never before or since seen the northern lights appear this quickly after sunset. The soft glow of twilight and subtle streaks of the aurora were truly incredible to witness.

Equipment

This shot was taken with my trusty night set-up. Sony a7ii, rokinon 24mm f1.4, and induro tripod.

Inspiration

For me the inspiration of this shot is very similar as to what drives all of my work. It is the experience of chasing the light through incredible places, and then being able to share it with friends and family. I really enjoy my whole photographic process; from planning a trip or a shoot, traveling to the location, creating the art both in the field and working in post, and then ultimately having an image that not only reminds me of a special experience but something that I can also share with others to hopefully inspire them to get out there and experience something special.

Editing

I processed this photo using Adobe Lightroom CC. If I remember correctly I actually did it on the return flight because I was so excited to work on my shots that I couldn't sleep during the 8 hour flight!

In my camera bag

I really prefer to travel light. Typically you will find me with my sony a7ii, the sony 16-35mm f4, and the rokinon 24mm f1.4. Sometimes I take a longer lens depending on what I am shooting and how far I will need to hike/climb. Other than that I always have an intervelometer, a carbon fiber tripod, and extra memory cards and batteries. In addition I keep outdoors gear with me most of the time which includes a multi-tool, headlamp, gps, a lighter, and a 1st aid kit.

Feedback

Advice: Just go to Iceland. That place is a landscape photographers dream. There is so much to shoot and the people are amazing. Just do your homework and be prepared for adverse conditions. Other than that, don't be afraid to work hard. Sometimes... actually most of the time getting the shot means giving up sleep to catch the light or hiking a harder trail to find a unique location, or maybe its just all the travel to get to location, but whatever it may be if you give it one hundred percent you'll be much more satisfied with your results.

See more amazing photos, follow benjamin_alcocer

benjamin_alcocer

benjamin_alcocer

Dancing Lights

The aurora dances over kirkjufell almost immediately after sunset.

Behind The Lens

See more amazing photos, follow benjamin_alcocer

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