I could not believe my eyes. Swinging the van door open, I stepped out into the wintry air. Above the stone arches, the sky moved. Hints of green stirred between the darkness. The color enlivened, and that is when I realized the moment I had dreamt about for years was happening. I was about to witness my first Northern Lights.
Boots untied, camera gear in hand, I exited the van. With my eyes fixed on the moving sky, I raced up the hill towards the stones. That is when it happened. The sky exploded in a mesmerizing show.
It was as if the heavens parted, ribbons of green unraveled and then danced across the sky, ethereal curtains that swayed and parted with the rhythm of a universe so far away, yet, for that moment, touched my eyes with unforgettable glory.
The cold air stung my bare hands as I mounted my camera on the tripod, only to realize it had no memory card. In my haste, I had forgotten to load one. This moment was not meant for photographs or foregrounds. It was meant to be enjoyed.
I placed my gear away and just watched. I cried; it was so beautiful.
This was the first time I ever witnessed the Aurora in Iceland. Since then, I have been much better prepared to photograph it, including planning the foreground; however, it still makes me emotional.
If I think back, some of my most memorable moments have been watching the polar lights. Cold hands, wintry air, hot chocolate in my thermos, a camera waiting amidst other Aurora chasers —these nights are unforgettable. It really is something special, and partly because, although we have some idea of what creates them, they are still classified as phenomena.
In this post, I will discuss what causes the Northern Lights, the best places in Iceland to find them, and photography tips for those interested in capturing that special image.
All I ask is that you promise to put the camera down, even for just a moment, and enjoy this spectacular experience away from the lens. You will never forget it!
Why Iceland is one of the best places to photograph the Northern Lights
For millennia, people have been fascinated by the Northern Lights. Every year, hundreds of professional and amateur photographers visit Iceland, eager to capture the stunning photographs they have dreamed of.
There is no better place than Iceland to visit and take that epic shot. With plenty of unique landscapes, dark skies, and magical winter nights, Iceland is a photographer’s playground for Northern Lights photography.
Iceland also offers visitors a lovely Nordic experience in its winter months. Yes, it can be cold and dark, but Iceland’s winter season is really something special. Ice caves open for tours, glaciers sparkle amid the wintry light, horses prance through the snow, and the towns glitter with holiday lights.
I may be biased, for I love Iceland in all its seasons, but winter is what really stole my heart.
What are the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are a sky spectacle that has fascinated and mystified people for millennia. It draws enthusiastic visitors from all over the globe to Iceland during the winter season.
Scandinavia’s settlers once believed the Northern Lights to be the shields of the Valkyrie, mythical beings in Norse Mythology as they descended onto earth from the heavens. Witnessing this ethereal sky dance leaves little doubt that such unbelievable beauty could be born from myth and tales. Believe it or not, this phenomenon has a scientific reason, and it all starts with the sun.
The Aurora can only be witnessed near the Earth’s North or South poles. In the North, it is called the Aurora Borealis, whereas in the South, it is called the Aurora Australis. You will sometimes hear the Northern Lights referred to as “the Green Lady” or just “lights.”
The dancing lights in the sky are caused by activity on the sun’s surface, known as solar storms. Solar storms are explosions on the sun’s surface that release millions of particles into the earth’s atmosphere.
Many particles are deflected away; others are pulled towards the north or south poles. The sun’s particles crash into molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, setting them aglow. At their closest, these particles are still 160 km above us but can still occur thousands of kilometers away. The closer they are to us, the greater the intensity and likelihood of them being visible.
Solar activity is another factor that increases the intensity and frequency of the aurora.
The transition from 2025 to 2026 is projected to have extreme solar activity, increasing the likelihood, intensity, and visibility of the Aurora, making it the perfect time to plan a Northern Lights photography trip.
The processes that cause the Northern lights happen almost every day, but seeing them is never guaranteed, which is why this display is such a treat. During Iceland’s summer, the daylight makes it impossible, and cloudy skies or a bright full moon will impede them in the winter.
The intensity of the aurora also depends on the power of the solar storms, which is maximum. Iceland has already seen some incredible displays this season, enough to captivate the long-standing locals who have witnessed this their entire lives!
What are the colors of the Northern Lights?
Most pictures show the Aurora in striking green, but it can be many different colors, such as red, purple, blue, and even pink! The colors depend on what particles in the earth’s atmosphere are heated by the solar particles and at what altitude.
• Green is the most common of the colors, and this occurs when solar particles meet Oxygen particles.
• Red occurs when oxygen particles meet solar particles at a higher altitude, such as 480km.
• Pink occurs when solar particles collide with nitrogen at a low altitude, such as 100 km above ground.
The rarest color in the Northern Lights is deep blue or purple, making it a real treat to witness!
Why Iceland is the best location to photograph the Northern Lights
Since the Aurora is only visible near the Earth’s North and South Poles, Iceland’s northern location makes it a prime spot to witness this phenomenon.
Furthermore, Iceland’s dark winter nights and dramatic landscapes make it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Shaped by volcanic activity, glaciers, and waterfalls, Iceland has no shortage of stunning scenery to create a truly unforgettable night.
Iceland has many other reasons to plan for a Northern Lights adventure.
Reasons why Iceland is the best destination to see the Northern Lights:
• Dark, long winter nights. For the aurora to be visible, you need a few things to happen, including a dark sky. With hours of darkness in winter and a long winter season, Iceland offers travelers an excellent opportunity to be flexible about which month they travel and a strong promise of dark skies!
• Stunning foreground subjects—with unique mountains such as Kirkjufell, waterfalls such as Skogafoss, and spectacular volcanoes. Iceland’s landscapes are a photographer’s playground for capturing that one-of-a-kind dream shot of a lifetime. Whether day or night, you are guaranteed to capture and witness some fantastic landscape scenery!
• There is so much more to see and do! The aurora is never guaranteed, but witnessing other mind-blowing landscapes in Iceland or experiencing our rich culture is! Plus, Iceland’s cozy winter vibes and holiday spirit, which locals pride themselves on, will make you feel at home! In Icelandic, the phrase “kozy kvölt” translates to cozy night, and there is nothing better than cozying up in a little cabin somewhere in the Icelandic countryside on a cold winter night.
Strolling around Reykjavik during the holidays is magical, and visiting places outside the city offers an authentic taste of Icelandic life and nature.
No matter the season, Iceland is a destination to be experienced, but winter nights in Iceland are genuinely magical and are my favorite time of year to visit.
What time of year is best to see the Northern Lights in Iceland
Iceland’s Northern Lights season begins in September and ends in mid-April. Autumn brings the richness of colors as foliage changes, and winter brings the holiday vibes and cozy nights Icelanders have celebrated.
The best time to view the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter season when the nights are at their darkest. Typically, from September through mid-April, I have witnessed intense aurora activity!
Light levels are at their lowest on December 21, the winter solstice, allowing visitors more opportunity for dark, clear nights. However, the weather in September and April is more stable and milder, allowing visitors who prefer these conditions to view them as well! I have witnessed intense and colorful aurora activity in early September and mid-April.
However, a few things still need to line up, regardless of your chosen month.
• Clear, dark skies. Can you see the Aurora on a cloudy night or with a full moon? You may glimpse intense aurora activity behind clouds or with a full moon, but dark, clear skies are still your best chances.
• Strong solar activity. An increase in solar flares will. Increase the likelihood of the aurora, and a stronger solar storm will produce an intense aurora. Scientists use the KP index, or Planetary Index, which measures geomagnetic activity in Earth’s atmosphere. The higher the KP Index, the more likely an aurora will be visible. You can track sky conditions, KP index, and locations using the Aurora app. You can also check the Icelandic Met Office at https://en.vedur.is.
• Time of day. The best time of day to see the Aurora is from 10 PM to 1 AM, as nights are at their darkest. However, some have spotted the aurora as early as 9 PM and even as late as 3 AM! Most Northern Lights tours in Iceland operate from September through April, departing at 10 p.m. to allow ample opportunity to spot them. However, you will find Aurora enthusiasts out hunting until 2 AM, searching for the brightest aurora they can find!
As they say, Aurora hunting is not a day job!
I also recommend several apps to help plan your Aurora hunt.
My Aurora Forecast and Alerts
Safe Travel Iceland for road closures and conditions. I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to stay up to date on road conditions in Iceland!
Tips for creating stunning Northern Lights Photos
Whether you are a seasoned pro or looking to capture a stunning Northern Lights photo on your phone, you can photograph the aurora. Understanding and preparing for the photo opportunity before it happens is best. Believe me, if you are a first-time Northern Lights witness, you will be so awestruck that the last thing you want to do is fumble with your camera or realize your memory card is missing, like I did.
Here are some tips for capturing that perfect Northern Lights photograph:
Smartphones such as Android or iPhone:
- Set out with your phone fully charged and with plenty of storage memory. If you venture a bit away from your vehicle, it may also be a good idea to carry a portable charger!
- Set your phone to night mode. Most smartphones have a “night mode” installed in their camera app to take photos in low-light conditions. Here are directions for setting up night mode in both iPhone and Android smartphones, such as the Galaxy.
Directions for iPhone:
1. Open your phone camera app
2. Swipe until you get to the photo
3. Hit the arrow on the top of the camera screen
4. Search for the “night mode” icon on the toolbar above your screen shutter button
5. Please select the option for shutter speed or choose auto to allow your phone to pick it based on the light conditions.
Directions for Android Smartphones:
1. Open your phone camera app
2. Swipe until you see “night.”
3. Select your shutter speed or choose auto to allow the camera to select based on the light conditions.
Photographers with a DSLR camera
If you are a photographer with a DSLR, here are some tips on settings and equipment. Research your camera’s brand and model to understand its settings and capabilities, and schedule practice night photography sessions before your visit. Familiarize yourself with any new equipment, such as tripods, lenses, and the clothing you plan to wear. If you rent a lens for your adventure, receiving the lenses a few days before arriving is a good idea to understand how they work.
- A wide-angle lens works best, such as a 15-35mm, especially if the Aurora is big or, in some cases, right over you across the entire sky! One night, the Aurora stretched from one side of the fjord all the way to the other, and it was almost impossible to frame a picture; it was so huge!
- Use of a tripod. Night photography involves long exposures and slower shutter speeds, which require a tripod to hold the camera and limit any shake. A carbon fiber tripod is nice and light for travel but can get shaky during a windy night, so be prepared to steady the tripod if need be.
- Carry extra batteries and memory cards. The cold drains batteries faster, so carrying an extra memory card is always a good idea! It is also good practice to have a spare lens cap and, if you use them, adapters, as well as a cleansing kit and a small screwdriver to adjust any moving parts. Carrying a lens cloth and wipes in your day pack can make a world of difference if you plan on shooting near a waterfall and the wind picks up!
- Set your camera focus to infinity. If your camera does not have this option, focus on the furthest star. Some photographers choose to tape their lens focus ring in place once they have set it, so there is no movement during the shots. This is a good idea, especially since things can get exciting once the aurora shows up. You want to be prepared beforehand so you can focus on the show and your photography!
- Slow shutter speed. Night photography means longer exposures, and depending on the intensity of the aurora, you will want to slow your shutter speed setting between 2 and 15 seconds. A darker, less active aurora will require a longer shutter speed, whereas a 2-4-second shutter speed may work. Start at 10 seconds, then work up or down as needed.
- Set your camera to its widest aperture possible. You want to set your aperture to its smallest number possible, ideally 1.4- 2.4. The lower the number, the larger the aperture, and the more light your lens will let in.
- White balance. Set your white balance to Kelvin 3500. An auto-white balance may produce a yellowish tint to the aurora. Shoot in RAW, and you can adjust this later during edits.
- Lens filters. There is debate about whether you should remove a lens filter for Aurora photography. Some photographers claim a filter can create a “ring” like a stain on your images, whereas others have not experienced this and would rather not risk shooting with an unprotected lens. Removing a lens filter remains a personal decision and depends on the type and quality of the filter. This is another reason why it is essential to practice with all your equipment before you arrive, so your photographs are not limited by circumstances that could have been prevented.
Regardless of your photographic style, it is best to have an idea of how you would like to compose your photograph. If you have read my previous post on storytelling in photography, you will have seen how to become a visual storyteller. In that case, I highlight the importance of feeling inspired when planning a photography shoot and being connected with that inspiration through journaling, research, and connecting with other creatives!
The potential challenge in storytelling with Northern Lights photography stems from a few reasons, but do not let this deter you. One is the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights. Conditions can line up perfectly, and yet the sky will not dance. Or the opposite can be true. Once, my app said the KPI index was super low, yet the conditions were perfect. A cold, dark, and clear night on Iceland’s Southern Coast led to one of the most spectacular displays I have ever seen.
Begin by journaling some ideas for your shoot. Think about your itinerary and what it will allow you to do. Think about whether you would like to include a foreground subject in your photograph. Some ideas include waterfalls, such as Skogafoss; an abandoned home; mountain peaks; unusual rock formations, such as Hvitserkur in the north; or the infamous Arctic Henge stones, as shown in this photograph.
So, remember, it is best to have your camera settings ready before the action! Once the show starts, it will be too exciting to focus on anything else!
Whether you are a seasoned photographer or capturing an image on your phone, step away from the lens for a moment and enjoy the magic with your own eyes!
Best places in Iceland to photograph the Northern Lights
As stated, Iceland is the best place to see the aurora. It offers visitors ample opportunity with long nights and is home to the world’s most dynamic landscapes. If you are a photo enthusiast, there is no shortage of compositions here, as you can get as creative as you’d like with shapely mountain peaks, farmhouses, glaciers, and waterways!
- Iceland’s South Coast. With nearby incredible scenery, accessible travel, and limited light pollution, there are plenty of spots to see the northern lights, making Iceland’s south coast a prime location to plan an aurora-hunting adventure! This area of Iceland is rich in glacier landscapes, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and vast farmland. It is also relatively simple and safe to travel to in the winter months. Distance from Reykjavik: 90 Min drive
- Snaefellsnes National Park. This peninsula, also known as “Iceland in Miniature,” is rich in mystical landscapes and is the birthplace of Iceland’s most famous folktales. Here, you will also find Iceland’s most photographed mountain, Kirkjufell Mountain. There is no shortage of photo opportunities with interesting foregrounds, such as Hvalfjordur or Buðir Black Church. Distance from Reykjavik: 2 hours
- Iceland’s Southern Highlands. Iceland’s interior is home to the country’s most rugged and wild terrain. Less explored due to the challenging F roads it takes to navigate, this area is virtually free of light pollution but rich in wondrous landscapes, making it another perfect destination to see the aurora. Since F roads are not maintained in the winter, this region is accessible only through guided tours. Distance from Reykjavik: 2 -3 hours
- Northern Iceland and West Fjords. The challenge here is reaching the North in the winter months. Road conditions can become hazardous and impassable during snowstorms. However, North Iceland is home to some of the best conditions and locations for Aurora hunting and photography. From Iceland’s domestic airport, you can grab a flight to Isafjordur in the West Fjords or to Akureyri. From there, you can rent a car (4×4 is highly recommended!) and plan your winter adventure!
Stunning locations in North Iceland for Northern Lights photography are:
- Hornstrandir Nature Reserve — reachable only with a guide in the winter — is a remote gem, home to stunning fjord views, nature, and wild landscapes virtually untouched by mankind!
- Hrísey is a small island tucked inside Eyjafjordur off of Iceland’s North Coast. Hrisey is a hidden gem with a friendly local community and breathtaking views of the fjord. With less light pollution, it is a perfect location for a Northern Lights adventure. To reach Hrisey, you must take a ferry from the coastal town Árskógssandur. You can find the ferry schedule here.
- The Arctic Henge — these remote and mysterious stone arches are located in Iceland’s most northerly town, Raufarhöfn.
- Godafoss, the waterfall of the gods, is one of my favorite waterfalls in Iceland. This mystical waterfall has several viewing platforms, offering different composition options.
- Mr. Iceland Horseback Riding and Cottages in South Iceland is one of my favorite places to stay for a Northern Lights adventure. Tucked inside a farm with gorgeous views of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, this one-of-a-kind stay allows guests a chance to unwind, connect with the Icelandic horse, and enjoy the Northern Lights all from the comfort of their own cottage.
Recommendations for Aurora Hunting
- Scout locations. There are several ways to approach this. If you have an idea of the photo composition you are seeking, such as a specific foreground subject, then this is relatively simple. However, you don’t want to limit yourself to one spot in case the conditions are not in your favor. For example, cloud coverage may be heavy in your desired spot, but a clear sky may be nearby. Keep in mind that this tends to be the case in mountainous regions near waterways, such as Vestrahorn in Stokknes or Kirkjufell in Snaefellsnes, so it is a good idea to have a backup plan. Another way you can approach this, if you have a car and a flexible plan, is to check the forecast on www.vedur.is in the region where the clearest sky is forecasted to be and head there at nightfall. A third option, which requires the least amount of work on your part, is to attend a guided tour where location scouting, transportation, and backup plans are left to the guide, and all you have to do is watch, enjoy, and shoot!
- Plan on a clear night with little to no moonlight. Check the KP index and aurora tracker on the Aurora app and the Icelandic Met Office—these are the best tools for predicting Aurora, including the KP index, moon phase, cloud coverage, and temperatures, so you know how to dress!
- Go by camper van for flexibility and a unique adventure. A camper van is my favorite mode of travel as a photographer in Iceland. It affords me the flexibility to chase the perfect shot, as well as the freedom my soul craves when I travel. Winter in Iceland presents challenges for travel, including closed roads, hazardous conditions, and poor visibility. I am surprised how many people plan to drive the Ring Road in Iceland in the winter. This is not recommended. Instead, focus on a region and plan to spend your trip there. Understand that your plans may have to be altered due to road closures or weather, and adjust accordingly. Most camper vans come equipped with a heat system that charges as the van is running, extra blankets, and a sleeping bag for an additional charge. Please keep in mind that most campgrounds close during the winter season, so you can research your trip before arrival, as you will find at least one campground in each region that remains open. Although this mode of travel can present some challenges, it is still my favorite way to see Iceland! With proper planning, safe practices, a 4×4 van, and a sense of adventure, it can be yours too!
- Dress warm and in layers. Iceland’s winter can be cold, with average temperatures ranging from 31°F / 0 °C. Waiting for the lights means standing outside for a bit, and it is best to think about your comfort before the aurora happens, rather than being distracted by adding layers or cold hands. It is always good to be prepared. Dress in warm layers, gloves, mittens, and a hat, and carry a day pack with any extras needed!
- Bring a headlamp. A headlamp with a red-light option is handy if you need to walk a short distance to and from the vehicle. Remember to keep the lamp on the red setting so as not to disturb the darkness for others or your own eyes!
- Limit light pollution. Watching for the aurora takes the right conditions, patience, and our own eyes. The human eye may take several hours to adjust to the dark fully, and only seconds to ruin that! Remember, the darker the better. Use the red light setting on the headlamps and turn off the vehicle headlights while waiting.
- Be patient. Some people have more sensitive eyes than others and have developed a strong “spidey sense” regarding the aurora. This may come from years of experience or just a gut feeling. No matter who you are and how long you have been doing it, it still takes patience. Don’t give up if the aurora faints at first, especially if there is a lot of movement.
- Keep your ears open. An intense aurora may also produce a “humming” or crackling sound. This is not your imagination, but atmospheric electricity changes when the aurora disturbs the Earth’s magnetic field, creating a static charge. These sounds are also more likely to occur during a strong geomagnetic storm and when cold air is trapped beneath warm air.
Remember, while you are out there, to put the camera down and take it all in. The Northern Lights are truly one of the most spectacular shows in nature I have ever witnessed. There is a strange, melancholic sense of home when I see them, a longing for a place or time long forgotten, yet remains etched in my heart.
Enjoy your adventure!
