How to Photograph the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)

The Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights, is a captivating subject for photographers. Based in Hobart, Tasmania, a prime location for viewing the Southern Lights, I’ve spent countless nights capturing (and sometimes being disappointed by) this remarkable light show.

This guide covers everything you need to know about photographing the Aurora Australis, from understanding its causes to finding prime locations and mastering the technical aspects.

We’ll focus on viewing the Southern Lights from Tasmania and southern Australia, drawing from my experience, but the principles apply to similar latitudes in New Zealand and other southern regions.

While we’ll concentrate on mid-latitude aurora photography, it’s worth noting that the aurora is also visible from Antarctica, where it appears much closer and more intense, similar to views in the Arctic.

Though rare, naked-eye aurora displays do occur in southern Australia, making all the aurora chasing worthwhile.

Understanding the Aurora Australis

The Aurora Australis occurs in a ring-shaped pattern around the South Geomagnetic Pole, known as the auroral oval.

It’s visible in both high and mid-latitude regions of the Southern Hemisphere, caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s magnetosphere and colliding with atoms in the upper atmosphere.

Different atmospheric gases produce various colors when excited by these particles. Oxygen emits green light at about 100-300 km altitude and red light above 300 km, while nitrogen produces blue and purple hues at around 80-100 km.

From southern Australia and New Zealand, we often perceive more pinks, purples, and reds in the Aurora Australis due to our viewing angle and distance, typically 1,000-1,500 km away.

The Earth’s curvature means we’re mainly seeing the upper portions of the display, which usually appear low on the southern horizon rather than overhead.

The Aurora Australis is just as impressive and intense as its northern counterpart, the Aurora Borealis. The key difference is our viewing distance in mid-latitude regions.

From Antarctica, the Southern Lights appear just as large and dramatic as the Northern Lights do in the Arctic. In Tasmania and southern Australia, the aurora generally appears less intense to the naked eye due to the extended distance.

However, long-exposure photography can reveal its true vibrancy and scale, capturing stunning displays of color and light.

Occasionally, during extreme geomagnetic storms, the auroral oval expands significantly.

On May 11, 2024, a large auroral event brought the oval directly over Tasmania, allowing us to experience the aurora as it would be seen in higher latitude regions, with displays visible overhead and 360 degrees around.

While such events are rare, they offer a glimpse of the aurora’s full magnificence and remind us of the spectacular nature of this phenomenon.

Where to photograph the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)

The Aurora Australis is visible from various locations in the Southern Hemisphere, with the best views occurring in regions closer to the South Geomagnetic Pole.

While Antarctica offers the most intense displays, it’s not a practical option for most photographers. Tourist trips to Antarctica typically visit the Antarctic Peninsula during summer, when there’s little to no darkness. You’d also be on a ship, which inherently makes long-exposure photography difficult.

Additionally, the Antarctic Peninsula is further from the South Geomagnetic Pole, requiring a significant geomagnetic event for aurora visibility.

To truly experience the Antarctic aurora, you’d need to be at a research base directly under the auroral oval during winter – but be prepared for extreme cold and the risk of frostbite. For most of us, mid-latitude locations offer a more accessible and comfortable aurora photography experience.

Tasmania, being the southernmost part of Australia, offers the most frequent viewing opportunities. Key locations include the South Arm Peninsula (Goat Bluff, Clifton Beach), Bruny Island (The Neck and Cape Bruny Lighthouse), and the Tasman Peninsula (Cape Raoul Lookout, Tessellated Pavement, Maingon Bay).

Other prime spots are the Huon Valley, D’Entrecasteaux Channel areas, and the Kingborough region (Kingston, Blackmans Bay, Taroona, and Kettering). Cradle Mountain, Freycinet National Park, Bay of Fires, the Central Highlands, and the Stanley area around The Nut are also excellent choices.

Tasmania offers year-round opportunities, with the equinoxes (March/April and September/October) being particularly favorable.

Mainland Australia can also offer aurora sightings, though these typically require stronger geomagnetic activity.

In Victoria, which usually needs a G3 or stronger geomagnetic storm for visibility, popular spots include Cape Schanck, the Mornington Peninsula, Bellarine Peninsula, and the Great Ocean Road. Wilsons Promontory and Phillip Island are also good options.

In South Australia, Kangaroo Island and southern coastlines away from light pollution are your best bets. Western Australia offers opportunities in Albany, Esperance, Augusta, and the Margaret River area. Winter generally provides clearer skies in these mainland locations.

New Zealand’s South Island is another excellent location for aurora photography, particularly in The Catlins, Queenstown, the Fiordland area, and other southern parts of the country.

The visibility of the aurora depends on the strength of geomagnetic activity. While the Kp index is commonly used, it’s less accurate for Australian conditions (we’ll discuss more accurate prediction methods later).

However, as a rough guide, the further south you go, the better your chances of seeing the aurora. This is not just because you’re closer to the auroral oval but also because you have a clearer view of the southern horizon, which is crucial for aurora visibility at these latitudes.

While these are popular locations, don’t underestimate the value of finding your own unique vantage points. Use resources like lightpollutionmap.info to identify areas with minimal light pollution and clear southern views. Look for south-facing coastlines away from city lights.

During exceptionally strong geomagnetic storms, like the event on May 11, 2024, the aurora can be visible from much further north—even as far as Uluru or tropical north Queensland.

Predicting the Southern Lights

Predicting aurora activity involves considering factors across various time scales, from years down to minutes. Understanding these can significantly improve your chances of witnessing and photographing the Aurora Australis.

The longest time scale involves the 11-year solar cycle. We’re currently approaching the peak of Solar Cycle 25, expected around 2025. This period is ideal for aurora hunting, as solar maximums generally offer more frequent and intense displays.

Seasonally, geomagnetic activity tends to peak around the equinoxes in March/April and September/October. This phenomenon, known as the Russell-McPherron effect, occurs because the Earth’s axial tilt aligns more directly with the solar wind during these periods.

This alignment increases the likelihood of geomagnetic substorms, potentially boosting your chances of seeing an aurora by 20-40% compared to other times of the year.

On a monthly scale, consider the lunar cycle and its impact on visibility. Darker skies provide better contrast for aurora photography, making the auroral light more visible and less likely to be overpowered by moonlight.

This is particularly significant for weaker auroral displays, though even strong displays can be affected by a full moon. For optimal viewing conditions, aim for a moon phase with 25% illumination or less.

Additionally, the Sun’s 27-day rotation brings active regions back into Earth-facing positions, potentially leading to recurrent geomagnetic activity. This monthly pattern can help you anticipate periods of increased aurora likelihood.

Short-term prediction, spanning days to hours, relies heavily on monitoring current solar and geomagnetic conditions.

Key parameters to watch include Bz (Interplanetary Magnetic Field), where values below -5nT, ideally below -10nT, are favorable; solar wind speed, with higher speeds increasing aurora chances (aim for >500 km/s); and solar wind density, where higher density, with >5 particles/cm³, is favorable.

Hemispheric power should ideally exceed the current moon phase percentage, and the Disturbance Storm Time (Dst) index, where more negative values indicate stronger geomagnetic activity.

In the immediate term, hours to minutes before potential aurora activity, focus on local conditions. Use resources like windy.com for cloud forecasting and lightpollutionmap.info to find areas with minimal light pollution.

The Bureau of Meteorology can provide detailed local weather information. Remember, auroral substorms can develop and change rapidly, sometimes within minutes, so stay alert and ready to adapt quickly.

To help set expectations based on your location, consider this rough guide to potential aurora visibility in Australia:

• G1 (Minor): Possible in southern Tasmania
• G2 (Moderate): May be visible across Tasmania
• G3 (Strong): Potential for visibility in southern Victoria
• G4 (Severe): Chance of visibility in southern NSW
• G5 (Extreme): Possibility of being visible as far north as Queensland

Useful prediction resources include Aurora Alerts for local notifications, SpaceWeatherLive for real-time solar wind data, and the Bureau of Meteorology Space Weather Services for Australian-specific forecasts.

Despite all these tools and indicators, aurora prediction remains an inexact science. Unexpected displays can occur during seemingly quiet periods, while anticipated events may not materialize.

The key to successful aurora photography lies in staying informed, being prepared, and practicing patience.

Equipment for Southern Lights photography

Capturing the Aurora Australis requires specific gear and optimal camera settings. Here’s what works well for me:

For the best results, use a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera with good low-light performance. Modern crop-sensor cameras can also deliver excellent results.

Pair your camera with wide-angle lenses that have large maximum apertures (f/2.8 or wider). Popular choices include 14mm, 20mm, or 24mm prime lenses.

A sturdy, reliable tripod is crucial for long exposures. To minimize camera shake, use a remote shutter release or intervalometer. Some cameras have built-in intervalometer features, so check your camera’s capabilities before purchasing additional equipment.

Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, so always carry extras and keep them in a pocket close to your body to maintain their charge.

A headlamp is also essential for navigating in the dark.

Read more: The Best Equipment for Star Photography

Camera settings for Southern Lights photography

Shooting in manual mode and using RAW format offers maximum post-processing flexibility. Set your aperture as wide as possible (f/1.4 to f/2.8). I

SO settings can range from 1600 up to 6400, depending on the brightness of the aurora. Be prepared to lower ISO if the aurora suddenly brightens to avoid overexposure.

Shutter speeds should range from 5 to 30 seconds, depending on aurora activity. Shorter speeds can capture more detail in rapidly changing displays.

Use manual focus and magnify the live view display on your camera’s screen to adjust focus until a star appears as the smallest pinpoint possible.

Set your white balance between 3500-4500K, with 4000K often providing a good balance.

Here are some other useful tips:

• Use a lens hood to prevent lens flare from moonlight or other light sources.
• Consider using a lens warmer to prevent condensation in cold conditions, and regularly check your lens for fogging to avoid soft images.
• Cover or disable any lights on your camera that flash during countdown timers or long exposures to avoid interrupting other photographers.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different settings as auroral conditions change throughout the night.

Read more: The Best Settings for Night Photography

Time-lapsing the Southern Lights

Capturing the dynamic nature of the Aurora Australis through time-lapse or video can add another dimension to your work.

Set your intervalometer so that it continually takes images at your chosen shutter speed with no gaps between frames. This is especially important if your goal is to create star trails, as gaps can cause breaks in the trails.

Use the same settings as for still images, allowing you to pick the optimal shot from the sequence to edit as a hero image.

Ensure your tripod is extremely stable since even slight movements can ruin a time-lapse sequence. Remember that time-lapses drain batteries quickly, especially in cold weather, so bring plenty of spares or use an external power source.

Consider how the aurora might move during your sequence and leave room in the frame for potential expansion of the display. Aim for at least 300-400 frames for a good time-lapse sequence, usually shooting for 30 minutes to an hour.

Use software like LRTimelapse to smooth out transitions and adjust for changing light conditions.

Running a time-lapse allows you to capture all the data, including the height of the aurora, which means you can go back through the images later and pick the time when the aurora was at its best.

You can also output it as a video or as a star trail where the stars rotate around the south celestial pole, creating a stunning visual effect. This approach lets you sit back and enjoy the show, making it a win-win scenario.

Read more: How to Shoot and Process Star Trails

Composition tips for aurora photography

When composing your aurora shots, there are several techniques I’ve found effective over the years. Including interesting foreground elements can add depth and context to your images.

Look for silhouettes of trees, mountains, or structures that can frame the aurora, enhancing the overall composition. If you’re near still water, try to capture the aurora’s reflection, creating a mirror effect that doubles the impact of the lights in your image.

Consider the rule of thirds by placing the horizon on the lower or upper third of the frame, depending on whether you want to emphasize the sky or the landscape.

While wide landscape shots are common, don’t forget to try portrait orientation, especially when the aurora stretches high into the sky.

If the aurora is active, capturing its movement with a series of shorter exposures can be very effective. These can later be combined into a time-lapse video.

Adding a human element to your photos can provide scale and tell a story. Just be mindful of long exposures, as your subject will need to stay very still.

It’s also a good idea to scout locations in advance whenever possible. Visit your shooting location during daylight to identify potential compositions and safety hazards.

Remember, composition tips are guidelines, not rules. Experiment with different compositions to find what works best for your unique perspective. The aurora is dynamic, so be prepared to adapt your composition as the display position and intensity change throughout the night.

Read more: How to Use Foreground for Better Star Photos

Practical tips and safety considerations for aurora photography

Capturing the Aurora Australis involves more than just camera skills, and safety should be your first priority. Scout your shooting spot during daylight hours if possible, so you’re aware of potential hazards like cliffs or uneven terrain.

Always inform others about your location and estimated return time, especially when heading into remote areas. Staying connected is important, so bring a fully charged phone and ideally a portable battery pack.

When it comes to what to bring and wear, dressing in layers is a good idea, as aurora viewing often means standing still in cold conditions for hours. Dress for the conditions – this usually means wearing a warm down jacket, waterproof boots, gloves, and a beanie.

Additionally, pack supplies like snacks, water, and a thermos of hot drinks to keep warm and maintain energy levels.

Be mindful of other photographers and aurora chasers to ensure everyone enjoys the experience. Use dim lighting to avoid ruining night vision or interfering with others’ photos; the front screen of your phone is better for illuminating camera controls than a flashlight.

If there are less experienced photographers around, consider helping them out; working together can often lead to better results for everyone.

Cover or turn off any lights on your camera that flash during timers or long exposures, and avoid using red headlamps, as the red light is very difficult to correct in post-processing.

In general, be flexible, as cloud cover can change quickly. Have a backup location in mind and be prepared to change plans if conditions shift.

Be patient, as auroras can be unpredictable; don’t get discouraged if the display doesn’t appear immediately. Running a time-lapse allows you to capture the aurora while also enjoying the show with your own eyes.

Lastly, respect the environment by taking all your rubbish with you and not disturbing wildlife or vegetation.

Post-processing tips for aurora photography

Post-processing is an important step in presenting your aurora images as accurately as possible.

Getting the white balance right is a great starting point; spend time fine-tuning the balance between the warmth and tint sliders to accurately represent what you saw. This significantly impacts the mood and authenticity of your image.

When adjusting color saturation, remember that aurora images can easily become oversaturated. When in doubt, back off a bit to keep things looking natural. For powerful displays, ensure colors truly represent what you experienced.

Noise reduction is another key aspect. The new Adobe AI denoise feature in Lightroom is useful, but dial it back from the default setting to avoid losing detail or creating a plasticky look. Find the sweet spot between noise reduction and detail preservation.

Balancing contrast and exposure is important. Use selective adjustments to manage contrast in different areas of the image, considering transitions from dark to bright and cool to warm. Be cautious with high ISO images, as they have less dynamic range.

Avoid overexposing areas of the aurora by keeping an eye on your histogram, so you don’t lose color and detail in the brightest parts. Use the shadow slider in Lightroom cautiously, as pushing it too far can introduce noise in night photos.

Apply careful sharpening to bring out details in the aurora and stars, but avoid over-sharpening, which can introduce artifacts. For printing, keep in mind that aurora photos can be challenging due to the limited color gamut, especially in the green range.

Additional work may be needed to ensure proper color rendering for prints. The goal is to enhance your image while maintaining a natural and authentic representation of the aurora you witnessed. Take your time with the process, and don’t be afraid to make subtle adjustments for the best results.

In conclusion

Photographing the Aurora Australis can be a very exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s also not without its disappointments.

It combines technical skill, creativity, patience, and a bit of luck. As you head out to capture the Southern Lights, remember that each display is unique, and your images will tell your own story of that particular geomagnetic event.

I hope this guide helps you on your aurora photography journey. Remember, practice makes perfect, and every outing is an opportunity to learn and improve. Happy aurora chasing, and clear skies!