Top 7 Best Places to See Northern Lights for Photographers

Witnessing the northern lights, or aurora borealis, is a breathtaking experience that captures the imagination of travelers and photographers alike. This natural spectacle, caused by solar storms colliding with the Earth's atmosphere, lights up the sky with vibrant colors that seem almost otherworldly. Finding the best places to see northern lights is crucial for those aiming to capture this celestial dance at its most magnificent. With locations across the Arctic Circle, from the fjords of Norway to the icy landscapes of Greenland, the quest for the perfect aurora viewing spot spans continents.

In this article, we explore the top 7 best places to see northern lights, especially from the perspective of photographers looking for that unforgettable shot. You will learn about the unique advantages of each location, from Tromsø, Norway, with its stunning fjords and vibrant Sami culture, to Fairbanks, Alaska, where the lights illuminate the sky in a spectacle of color. Whether you're drawn to the remote serenity of Abisko, Sweden, the accessible viewing platforms near Reykjavik, Iceland, or the cozy glass igloos in Finland, these destinations offer unparalleled opportunities to witness and photograph the aurora borealis. We'll guide you through when and where to look for the northern lights, the best times and places for optimal viewing, and how to make the most of your aurora hunting adventure.

Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, Norway, positioned well within the Arctic Circle at 69°N latitude, offers an exceptional viewing experience of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Its coastal location contributes to relatively mild winters, making it easier for you to spend time outdoors chasing the lights. The city is renowned for its prime location and stable weather, enhancing its reputation as one of the best places in the world to witness this natural phenomenon .

Tromsø Northern Lights Viewing Opportunities

In Tromsø, the Northern Lights are most frequently observed from September to March, providing ample opportunities for viewing. For the best experience, it's recommended to venture away from the city lights to locations like Prestvannet Lake or Grøtfjord, which offer unobstructed views and minimal light pollution . The absence of streetlights around Parkgata street near Kongsbakken city park also creates a darker environment, ideal for experiencing the auroras .

Tromsø Photography Locations

Tromsø is not only perfect for viewing but also for photographing the Northern Lights. Some of the best photography locations in the city include the Fjellheisen cable car, Telegrafbukta beach, and the nearby island of Kvaløya. Each location provides unique perspectives and backdrops for capturing the stunning auroras. For panoramic city views, the Cable Car takes you up to Storsteinen, offering a spectacular vantage point .

Tromsø Northern Lights Tours

To maximize your chances of capturing the Northern Lights, consider joining one of the many guided tours available. These tours range from bus and boat cruises to dog sledding excursions, designed to take you to the best spots away from the city lights. Many tours also offer photography tips and will help you adjust your camera settings for the best shots . Additionally, for a more immersive experience, you might join specialized photography tours that focus on finding the perfect lighting and landscape to complement the auroras .

Tromsø's combination of accessible viewing spots, photography-friendly locations, and expert-led tours makes it an ideal destination for both amateur and experienced photographers aiming to capture the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska, positioned directly under the Auroral Oval, offers a 90% chance of witnessing the Northern Lights if you stay for at least three nights and actively seek them during Aurora Season, which spans from August 21 to April 21 . The geographical advantage of being located in the heart of the Aurora Oval means that the lights can be visible from anywhere in the city, although the experience is magnified a few miles out of town where the skies are darker .

Fairbanks Aurora Forecast

The Aurora Tracker in Fairbanks integrates data from the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, local weather forecasts, and daylight hours to predict viewing opportunities . This tool is invaluable for planning your aurora viewing as it provides real-time updates that can help you decide the best times and locations for observing the Northern Lights.

Fairbanks Photography Spots

For photographers, Fairbanks offers diverse vantage points. Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge and the Chena Lake Recreation Area are notable for their open landscapes and minimal light pollution, providing clear views of the aurora . Murphy Dome, being the highest point near Fairbanks, offers panoramic views that are perfect for capturing the vastness of the aurora across the sky .

Fairbanks Northern Lights Tours

To enhance your chances of capturing the Northern Lights, consider joining a guided tour. Options range from photography tours that help you set the perfect shot to adventurous overnight sled dog expeditions . These tours often include transportation, photography workshops, and sometimes even aurora portraits, making them a comprehensive choice for both novice and experienced photographers .

Abisko, Sweden

Abisko, Sweden, nestled within the Arctic Circle, is a prime location for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking to capture the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. The town is renowned for its proximity to Abisko National Park and the Abisko Aurora Sky Station, which stands on the Nuolja mountain providing an unobstructed view of the night sky, making it an ideal spot for Northern Lights viewing .

Abisko Aurora Sky Station

The Abisko Aurora Sky Station is a celebrated destination for those wishing to experience the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. Located atop Nuolja mountain, the station offers a clear, expansive view of the aurora, free from light pollution. It's not just about the views; the station also provides a unique setting for a late-night coffee or a four-course meal, enhancing the overall experience of the Northern Lights .

Abisko Photography Workshops

For those keen on photographing this natural spectacle, Abisko offers a variety of photography workshops. These workshops are designed to teach participants the best techniques for capturing the Northern Lights, with guided hikes and snowshoeing tours that explore the picturesque landscapes of the region. Whether you're an amateur or a professional photographer, these workshops provide valuable insights into night sky photography .

Abisko Northern Lights Activities

Beyond photography, Abisko is bustling with activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the Arctic wilderness. From dog sledding and snowmobile sleigh rides in the Abisko Valley to day trips to the ICEHOTEL and Norway's fjords, the options are diverse. Each activity is designed to enrich your Northern Lights experience, ensuring that you not only see the auroras but also enjoy the stunning Arctic environment .

Abisko's combination of natural beauty, strategic location within the Aurora Oval, and comprehensive photographic and recreational activities make it a top destination for anyone eager to witness and capture the Northern Lights.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is renowned as one of the world's premier destinations for viewing the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis. The northern lights season here typically extends from September to April, with the peak months being October to March, offering you ample opportunity to witness this natural spectacle .

Iceland Northern Lights Season

The best times to view the northern lights in Reykjavik are during the dark, winter months, from September to March. During this period, the nights are long and dark enough to provide optimal conditions for viewing the auroras. December and January are particularly favorable due to the longest nights, although the shoulder months like November, February, and March often have calmer weather, enhancing your viewing experience .

Iceland Aurora Photography Tips

Photographing the northern lights in Iceland requires some preparation and skill, especially due to the country's ideal dark skies and minimal light pollution. It's essential to use a camera capable of manual settings. DSLR cameras with a good range of ISO settings, a tripod, and a remote shutter release are recommended to avoid camera shake and to capture the vibrant colors of the aurora effectively. Wide-angle lenses are preferable as they allow you to capture expansive landscapes along with the aurora borealis . Remember to turn off your camera’s image stabilizer and experiment with long exposure settings, typically 15 to 30 seconds, to allow more light into your lens .

Iceland Northern Lights Tours

Numerous northern lights tours are available from Reykjavik, which take you away from the city lights to spots known for their dark skies and excellent aurora visibility. These tours are often led by knowledgeable guides who can assist with both the hunt for the northern lights and with photography tips. Options include small group tours for a more personalized experience or private tours that cater specifically to your group's needs. Many tours offer a second try for free if the auroras are not visible on your first outing, ensuring that you have the best chance to witness this magnificent phenomenon .

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife Aurora Village

Yellowknife Aurora Village offers a unique and immersive way to experience the Northern Lights in Canada's Northwest Territories. This facility provides heated domes and cabins, allowing you to enjoy the aurora borealis in comfort and style . The village is designed to maximize your viewing pleasure with custom-made, heated outdoor viewing seats that rotate 360 degrees, ensuring you don't miss any part of the spectacular light show .

Yellowknife Photography Tours

For photography enthusiasts, Yellowknife is a haven. The city and its surrounding areas, such as Ingraham Trail, are known for their breathtaking landscapes and are perfect for capturing the Northern Lights . Photography tours here are led by experienced guides who help you find the best spots and angles for your photos, enhancing your chances of taking that perfect shot .

Yellowknife Northern Lights Experiences

Yellowknife offers a variety of Northern Lights experiences that go beyond just viewing. You can participate in photography workshops, enjoy cultural field trips, and engage in outdoor activities like dog sledding and ice road driving depending on the season . These experiences are enriched by the local culture and the stunning natural backdrop of the Northwest Territories, making your aurora viewing adventure truly unforgettable .

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland in Finland, is celebrated as the official hometown of Santa Claus and a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing. This northernmost region offers a magical backdrop for both aurora hunting and photography, especially during the long winter nights.

Rovaniemi Aurora Hunting

Your aurora hunting adventure in Rovaniemi could begin at the Ounasvaara Ski Resort, located just outside the city. This resort offers a clear view of the northern horizon, making it an ideal spot for watching the Northern Lights . Alternatively, the Ranua Wildlife Park, about 80 km from Rovaniemi, provides a unique setting away from city lights, enhancing your chances of a spectacular sighting . Additionally, local reindeer farms offer a uniquely Lappish experience, allowing you to watch the auroras in the company of reindeer, creating a picturesque scene against the night sky .

Rovaniemi Photography Locations

For photographers, Rovaniemi offers diverse locations to capture the stunning aurora and winter landscapes. The Ounasvaara Ski Resort not only serves as a viewing point but also provides panoramic shots of the city and the Kemijoki River . The iconic Jätkänkynttilä Bridge over the Kemijoki River and the modern architecture of the Arktikum Science Center are also popular for night photography, offering striking foregrounds against the auroral display .

Rovaniemi Northern Lights Activities

Beyond photography, Rovaniemi is bustling with activities that enhance the Northern Lights experience. You can embark on a Northern Lights cruise along the Kemijoki River or explore the snowy landscapes through snowmobile safaris . For a more traditional Lappish experience, reindeer and husky sled rides under the Northern Lights offer unforgettable memories . Additionally, the proximity to various winter activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and even husky dog sledding enriches your visit, making Rovaniemi a comprehensive destination for winter adventures .

Ilulissat, Greenland

In Ilulissat, Greenland, you can embark on guided northern lights tours that almost guarantee a sighting of the aurora during the winter months . These tours not only offer the chance to witness the breathtaking auroras but also provide an educational experience with guides sharing fascinating stories and data about the phenomenon, often accompanied by a warm beverage to enhance the experience .

Greenland Aurora Viewing

The unique geographic location of Ilulissat allows for spectacular aurora viewing opportunities. Positioned away from city lights, the area near the Ilulissat Icefjord becomes a prime spot, where the darkness of the Arctic night sky lets the vibrant colors of green and pink auroras dance overhead, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of massive icebergs .

Greenland Photography Opportunities

For photography enthusiasts, Ilulissat offers exceptional opportunities to capture the northern lights. You'll learn about optimal camera settings over a cup of coffee or tea before venturing out on a guided hike. Equipped with snowshoes and a flashlight, you'll trek through the snowy landscape under the star-filled sky, providing ample chances to photograph the auroras as they illuminate the night . The serene silence and the views of icebergs scattered across the Icefjord offer a perfect setting for both amateur and professional photographers .

Greenland Northern Lights Tours

Enhance your experience by joining a photography workshop led by award-winning guides who specialize in Arctic photography . These workshops are designed to maximize your photographic skills in capturing the northern lights and the unique landscapes of Greenland. During the autumn, when the nights grow longer, these workshops offer additional opportunities to photograph not just the auroras but also the stunning terrestrial features such as mountains and wildlife .

Conclusion

Throughout this comprehensive guide, we have ventured across the globe to unearth the top 7 destinations that offer photographers the quintessential canvas for capturing the elusive and ethereal beauty of the northern lights. From the vibrant aurora displays dancing above Tromsø, Norway, to the stunning contrasts provided by the icy landscapes of Greenland, each location presents a unique opportunity to witness and photograph this magnificent celestial phenomenon. These destinations not only promise optimal auroral visibility but also enrich the experience with their local culture, guided tours, and photography workshops, making each aurora hunt an unforgettable adventure.

As we conclude our exploration, it's clear that the pursuit of the northern affinity lies not just in the act of observation but in the profound connection with nature it fosters, offering moments of awe that resonate deeply within the soul of every photographer and traveler. By highlighting the prime locations, best viewing times, and essential photography tips, we hope to inspire and equip you for your own journey under the aurora-lit skies. May your travels be filled with breathtaking moments and your cameras capture the unmatched beauty of the northern lights, leaving you with memories and images that last a lifetime.

FAQs

1. What are the top destinations for photographing the northern lights?
The prime locations for capturing the northern lights include Fairbanks, Alaska, known for its wild landscapes; the Lofoten Islands in Norway, celebrated as an Arctic gem; Iceland, where dramatic natural elements meet; and Scotland, where auroras light up historical settings.

2. Which location is considered the best for viewing the northern lights globally?
Fairbanks, Alaska is regarded as one of the best spots globally to witness the northern lights. It lies directly beneath the auroral oval, a ring-shaped zone around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole, where aurora displays are most vivid.

3. What camera settings are recommended for photographing the northern lights?
To photograph the northern lights effectively, start with an aperture of f/2.8, an ISO setting of 1600 (which can be increased in darker conditions), and a shutter speed of 15 seconds. Adjust the shutter speed shorter if the aurora is moving rapidly.

4. When is the ideal time to see the northern lights?
The optimal period for viewing the northern lights is during the winter months, from late September to late March. This season offers long nights, which are ideal for observing the auroras.