Photographing the aurora borealis, or northern lights, is a dream for many, and you can make it a reality with your Samsung Galaxy S10. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, using simple and easy-to-understand language to help you capture stunning aurora photos.
Start with the Basics
Before diving into settings, it’s important to know that you don’t need your flash for this type of photography. The aurora is a natural light show that doesn’t require additional lighting. If you’re not photographing a person or object in front of the sky, go ahead and turn your flash off.
Explore Night Mode
Many smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy S10, come with a night mode. Look for a half-moon icon near the capture button in your camera app. Night mode is a good starting point because it automatically adjusts your settings for low-light conditions.
If you’re happy with the results, you’re done! But if the quality isn’t what you’re looking for, it’s time to try manual settings for greater control.
Unlock the Power of Pro Mode
Your Samsung Galaxy S10 has a Pro Mode that lets you fine-tune your camera settings. Here’s how to access it:
- Open the camera app on your phone.
- Tap on the “More” option at the bottom right of the screen.
- Select “Pro” from the options that appear.
Also read this: How to Disconnect My Samsung Phone from My Tablet
Once in Pro Mode, you’ll see a variety of icons and settings to adjust. Let’s break them down.
Focus Settings
- Switch the focus to manual mode or set it to multi-focus.
- Avoid touching the screen while capturing the photo, as this can cause the camera to refocus and ruin your shot.
ISO Settings
ISO determines how sensitive your camera is to light. Start by setting the ISO to the maximum value. For the Galaxy S10, this is often 3200, which works well on nights without a moon.
Shutter Speed (Exposure)
Shutter speed, also known as exposure, controls how long your camera’s sensor is exposed to light. Here’s what you need to do:
- Tap the “Speed” icon in Pro Mode.
- Adjust the dial to a whole number between 8 and 10 seconds.
If your photo appears too bright or grainy, reduce the exposure time. If it’s too dark, increase the exposure slightly.
Balancing ISO and Exposure
The key to great aurora photography is finding the right balance between ISO and exposure:
- Higher ISO settings make the image brighter but can introduce graininess.
- Longer exposure times allow more light in but can cause motion blur if the camera isn’t steady.
A good starting point is:
- ISO: 3200
- Exposure: 10 seconds
Adjust these settings based on your results.
Avoid Blurry Photos
To prevent blurry images, use a tripod or place your phone on a stable surface. Keeping your phone steady is crucial for long-exposure shots. Even the slightest movement can ruin your photo.
Fine-Tuning Tips
- If your photo is too dark, increase the ISO.
- If your photo is too bright or grainy, lower the exposure count.
- Practice is key. Experiment with different settings to learn what works best in your location.
Enjoy the Experience
Capturing the aurora with your Samsung Galaxy S10 is as much about enjoying the experience as it is about getting the perfect shot. Be patient, stay warm, and have fun exploring the night sky.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating stunning aurora photos to share and cherish.
