Capturing a compelling image of the aurora borealis is one of the most difficult photography techniques to master. Not only does this skill require proper equipment, knowledge of camera settings and logistical planning, it also requires the “perfect sky” — dark, clear and unobstructed, with little to no light pollution, and of course, vibrant visible auroras. In this image of the aurora borealis captured by David Bussieres in Gjoa Haven, the sky is perfectly illuminated by beautiful dancing ribbons of light, creating the perfect backdrop for this wintery scene. To further enhance the image, the photographer has placed the subject in the centre of the frame with a light, drawing the viewer's gaze to the middle of the image. Bussieres states that this image took many takes to achieve, while dealing with wind that made it feel like -40. Below you can find some tips from photographer Dave Sandford to capture your own incredible images of the aurora borealis.

 

Photos of the Week for the month of January 

 

Other photos we featured in the month of January included an image of a long-eared owl captured by Dan Sedran and snowy bison in Manitoba captured by Jules Brodeur. 

Each Monday, our editors choose a new Photo of the Week to feature as the cover photo on our Facebook and Twitter accounts. We share it on Instagram, too!

Want to see your photo featured? Be sure to join and upload to our Photo Club.
 

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We love when you tag us on Instagram using #ShareCanGeo. Here are a few of our recent favourites.

Click on each picture to be brought to the photographer’s Instagram page!

 

Dos and don’ts for photographing the aurora borealis
 

“[The aurora borealis] is one of the most amazing things you will ever see in your life,” says Dave Sandford, a nature and wildlife photographer who has shared his expertise with guests on more than 20 Arctic and Antarctic expedition cruises. “I’ve seen it a hundred times now, and I always feel like a kid at Christmas.”

Fortunately, you don’t need a top-of-the-line camera to capture great images of the northern lights. In fact, even your smartphone camera can often “see” more than you can. Here are Sandford’s top tips for shooting the aurora borealis.

Do use a tripod. The auroras are constantly moving and you’re shooting in the dark, so keeping your camera steady is essential to get a crisp, clear shot.

Don’t use a flashlight or headlamp when setting up or adjusting your camera settings, especially if viewing auroras with other people. Ambient light could ruin someone else’s shot. Instead, use a laser pointer or other small red light to make adjustments mid-show.

Do prepare your gear in advance. Make a checklist and ensure you have everything you need and know where to find it. Auroras can appear and disappear without warning and you don’t want to miss the moment while searching for a camera part.

Don’t get tricked into overexposing. Your camera’s sensitive sensor will be able to pick up even a weak aurora on the horizon; if you’re being treated to a vibrant show of rippling green curtains, too long an exposure will wipe out the detail and the movement. Sandford recommends an exposure time between one and six seconds, at the lowest possible f-stop and an ISO of 800-1200.

Do pay attention to the foreground and play with composition. Including trees, tipis or people in the foreground will make for a more dynamic shot.

Do protect your gear from the cold. If the auroras aren’t out, put a plastic bag over your camera to prevent frost buildup, which can ruin your images, drain the battery and damage the camera’s internal components as it thaws. Pack extra batteries and keep them in a pouch with some hand warmers. If the cold does zap your battery, warm it up and pop it back in.

Don’t forget to look up — and enjoy.