The Best Smartphones for Northern Lights Photography

Capturing the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights is a dream for many photographers. While professional cameras have long been the go-to for aurora photography, modern smartphones have made significant strides in low-light performance, making them surprisingly capable tools for this ethereal phenomenon. If you’re looking to photograph the aurora borealis with just your smartphone, here are the best devices to consider.

1. iPhone 15 Pro Max – The Low-Light King

Apple’s latest flagship boasts an advanced 48MP main sensor with larger pixels for superior light capture. The Night Mode and ProRAW capabilities allow for stunning long-exposure shots without excessive noise. The LiDAR scanner enhances autofocus in darkness, making it ideal for capturing the fleeting colors of the Northern Lights.

2. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – Versatility Meets Power

With its 200MP sensor and Expert RAW mode, the S23 Ultra delivers exceptional detail in low-light conditions. The Astrophotography mode can be tweaked for aurora shots, while the 10x optical zoom helps frame distant displays. Samsung’s AI-powered processing ensures vibrant yet natural colors.

3. Google Pixel 8 Pro – Computational Photography Master

Google’s Night Sight and Astro Photography modes are perfect for Northern Lights photography. The Tensor G3 chip optimizes long exposures, reducing blur and noise. The 50MP main sensor combined with AI-enhanced processing makes this phone a strong contender for aurora chasers.

4. Xiaomi 13 Ultra – The Dark Horse

This phone features a 1-inch sensor, rivaling some compact cameras. The Leica-tuned lenses and manual long-exposure controls provide flexibility for capturing the aurora’s dynamic movement. Its Dolby Vision HDR ensures vivid color reproduction.

Tips for Capturing the Northern Lights with a Smartphone

• Use a tripod to avoid shaky long exposures.
• Shoot in RAW for better post-processing flexibility.
• Disable flash and HDR to prevent unnatural lighting.
• Adjust exposure manually (aim for 10-30 seconds).
• Find a dark location away from light pollution.

With the right smartphone and techniques, you can immortalize the Northern Lights in all their celestial glory. Whether you’re a casual traveler or an avid photographer, these devices will help you seize the magic of the aurora borealis.