Information
Dress Code
- The cold Arctic climate demands extra warm clothing, especially since you will be standing still outside and watching the northern lights for extended periods.
- You will need long johns and a long sleeved undershirt, warm sweater, scarf, hat and gloves.
- Choose footwear somewhat larger than normal to allow space for insulating air and socks.
- Finally, wear your warmest down jacket as an outer layer. Loft and air are what really insulate against the cold.
- If possible, do not shower or take a sauna prior to going up to the Aurora Sky Station. And don't use water-based moisturisers on your face, since they can cause frostbite.
Photographing
- You will need a camera with bulb mode, self-timer (or cable release) and manual focus option.
- A wide-angle lens and a tripod will make your photos even better.
- Set your camera to ISO 400 or higher. If you have noise reduction you should put it on.
- Be sure that your batteries are fully charged and bring extras if you have.
- A headlamp will help you set up your gear. A red lens will preserve your night vision.
- Be careful to not breathe directly onto your camera viewfinder, lenses or LCD screen - they will fog up quickly in cold temperatures.
- Before bringing your chilled down camera into a warm room, enclose it in a plastic bag first. Let the camera then warm up slowly inside the bag before taking it out again.
- Exposure times will vary depending on your ISO settings, aperture and lens. Take a photo, look at your LCD screen or histogram, and make adjustments from there.