Best set up for Aurora Display in Yorkshire, UK

Bend The Light

It's predicted that tonight the Aurora Borialis will be visible (if the cloud clears) tonight as far south in the UK as Yorkshire and Lancashire. I may wander out with my gear if it looks like the sky will clear, but was wondering what the best set up would be to capture the Northern Lights after sunset?

I have a Canon 400d (iso to 1600), 18-55 and 75-300 kit lenses, several M42 lenses inc. 28mm 2.8, 35mm 2.8, 50mm 1.8, 135mm 2.8, macro tubes, x2 converters. I have a solid tripod, too, and a couple of less solid tripods. On camera flsh, plus 2 old flash guns triggered by optical triggers.

So, with that in mind, what would give best results with the kit I have?

Thanks

pathfinder

I think you will need a fast lens and high ISO and a longer exposure, like in this article - http://www.royhooper.ca/articles/aurora.html and this one - http://goscandinavia.about.com/od/knowledgesafety/ht/photographnorth.htm and here http://www.ptialaska.net/~hutch/aurora.html

With recent DSLRs I would tend to favor higher ISO over a lot longer shutter speed, I think.

I am interested in this discussion as I hope to see the Northern Lights in a couple weeks myself.

This is the best one I found in a quick google - http://www.alaskaphotographics.com/how_to_photograph_northern_lights.shtml

Bend The Light

The sky is quite clear here, but I am a little far south so not holding my breath...will post something IF I get it...

chrisjohnson

Bend The Light wrote: »

The sky is quite clear here, but I am a little far south so not holding my breath...will post something IF I get it...

I have seen this a few times in North Sweden. It does move about so if you can get a short exposure time it will be better. Most photos are blurry because people go for long exposures. High ISOs is definitely something to try along with your fastest glass. A tripod is essential.