Best Cameras for Northern Lights Photography in 2024
Best Cameras for Northern Lights Photography in 2024
Are you excited for your next trip to capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights?
Whether you're a pro or just starting out, having the right camera is key.
Here are some top cameras and lenses for Northern Lights photography:
Canon EOS RP: Great for Low Light
The Canon EOS RP is a versatile camera that excels in low light, making it perfect for capturing colorful auroras. It's small, light, and takes beautiful pictures.
Pair it with the Canon RF 16mm f/2.8 STM lens for wide Northern Lights shots.
For more tips on low-light photography, check out my 8 Pro Tips To Mastering Low-Light Photography.
Canon EOS R7: Advanced Features
The Canon EOS R7 offers advanced features and is great for various types of photography, including the dynamic Northern Lights.
Due to its sensor size, you might need a wider lens.
Consider pairing it with a wide-angle lens for the best results.
Canon R10: Budget-Friendly Option
If you're considering the Canon R10, it can be a suitable camera for capturing the Northern Lights, though it may have some limitations compared to full-frame options.
Recommended Lenses:
The ultra-wide 16mm focal length (equivalent to 25mm on full-frame) is ideal for capturing expansive Northern Lights displays.
The fast f/2.8 aperture allows for good low-light performance and longer exposure times.
Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM
This telephoto zoom lens can be useful for isolating specific features or details in the night sky.
The image stabilization helps compensate for camera shake during long exposures.
Considerations:
The smaller APS-C sensor of the R10 may not perform as well in low-light conditions compared to full-frame cameras.
However, with the right lenses and techniques, you can still capture great Northern Lights photos with the R10.
Key factors include using a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture and utilizing longer exposure times (8-30 seconds) on a sturdy tripod.
For more information on camera settings, visit my guide on Essential Camera Settings for Beginners.
Other Great Options:
Nikon Z6 II: Perfect for Night Photography
The Nikon Z6 II performs well in low light and pairs nicely with a wide-angle lens like the Nikon NIKKOR Z 14-30mm f/4 S.
Sony Alpha a7 III: Excellent in Low Light
Known for its low-light performance and autofocus, the Sony Alpha a7 III is great for shooting the Northern Lights.
Try it with the Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G lens for wide shots.
And That’s It
When choosing a camera, think about what you need and your budget.
Whether you go for the Canon EOS RP, Canon EOS R7, Nikon Z6 II, or Sony Alpha a7 III, each camera has its strengths for capturing the magic of the Northern Lights.
For more insights on camera gear, check out my DSLR vs. Mirrorless Cameras Guide and Best Cameras for Beginners.
I hope that helps,
-Hakan.