Head out from Rovaniemi into Lapland’s dark skies with a photographer-guide to chase the Northern Lights at 2–3 handpicked locations. Learn camera techniques, warm by an open fire, and take home edited photos of the show.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Night air bites clean as you step away from Rovaniemi’s sodium glow into a vault of winter sky. Guides dim headlamps and point you toward a dark stretch of fells; above, green ribbons unfurl, then violet and crimson stitch through the black. The group huddles near an open fire, camera shutters punctuating the silence as the aurora moves with slow, deliberate grace.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires brief walks over snow or frozen terrain and ability to stand in cold for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The Lapland region has long been inhabited by Sámi people; their reindeer-herding culture and folklore include many stories about the lights.
Conservation
Minimize light pollution by using low-intensity lights and avoid trampling vegetation—stick to established access routes and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Reserve your spot on the Chasing Aurora with Photographer - Small Group today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in insulating layers
Bring thermal layers, an insulated jacket, and a windproof outer shell—temperatures can drop well below freezing during stops.
Bring a sturdy tripod
A solid tripod is critical for sharp night exposures; small table-top tripods won’t cut it in wind or on uneven snow.
Carry spare camera batteries
Cold reduces battery capacity rapidly—bring at least two spares and keep them close to your body until use.
Arrive with basic camera settings prepared
Set your camera to manual with a wide aperture and 5–15s shutter as a starting point; the guide will help refine settings on site.
Tripod
Stabilizes long-exposure shots; choose a robust model that resists wind and can extend low to the snow.
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Insulated boots
Waterproof, insulated footwear keeps feet warm during long stands on snow or ice.
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Spare camera batteries
Bring multiple batteries and keep spares warm—cold drains battery life quickly.
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Wide-angle, fast lens (e.g., 14–24mm, f/2.8)
A wide, fast lens captures expansive sky and allows lower ISO or shorter exposures for sharper images.