How To Photograph An Aurora In The Scottish Highlands

A subject that we're always asked about here at the Gallery is auroras. They're a bucket list experience to witness, but another thing entirely to capture on camera or film! Of course, capturing an aurora can often come down to luck with the right weather at the right time, but there are things you can do to plan and raise your chances of success. If you want to know how to photograph an aurora in the Scottish Highlands, keep reading!

The summit of Sgùrr na Strì, Isle of Skye

How To Plan For An Aurora

When it comes to planning an aurora, the best place to start is by using websites and apps to help you. There are a few options that try to predict auroras based on geomagnetic activity, alongside sharing the activity in the present moment via charts, graphs, and alerts. Jack's personal choice is Aurora Watch UK.

His advice:

"I use the forecasting to help guide me on possible days/times and then closely watch the app for specifics. This means I don’t have to stand and wait for hours. When the aurora does appear, you might only have seconds to catch it before it fades. Keep your camera/tripod to hand!"

Camasunary Bothy, Isle of Skye

How To Photograph An Aurora In The Scottish Highlands

We're passing this one over to the expert!

Jack says:

"For photography, you ideally want to keep your camera as still as possible and use a longer exposure to help pick up the colours and movements of the aurora. A tripod is perfect to give you that fixed position for a clear photo. Exposure will depend on the aurora itself, but I recommend keeping it at 5 seconds. Too long and you’ll be left with blurry lights.

Another tip is to familiarise yourself with the histogram on your camera, which gives you a rough idea of how bright/dark the image is. From your eyes, your perception of how bright/dark the image is will be completely off because you’re in a dark scene with a bright screen facing you. The histogram allows you to find the right balance to capture detail."

Burns Night Aurora, Applecross

Take note of our tips, pray for some decent Scottish weather, have a plan in place, and who knows, you could capture an image just like this, which Jack captured on Burns Night 2021. You can take a closer look here. Let us know if you've any other questions, or if you'll be heading on an aurora hunt!

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How to capture the Northern Lights in Scotland FAQs

Where are the best locations in Scotland to see the Northern Lights?

• Some of the best locations in Scotland to see the Northern Lights include the remote areas of the Scottish Highlands, the Isle of Skye, the Shetland Islands, and the Orkney Islands, away from light pollution.

What camera equipment do I need to photograph the Northern Lights in Scotland?

• To photograph the Northern Lights in Scotland, you'll need a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual exposure settings, a wide-angle lens with a large aperture (such as f/2.8 or wider), a sturdy tripod, and spare batteries and memory cards.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Scotland?

• The best time to see the Northern Lights in Scotland is during the winter months, from October to March, when the nights are long and dark, providing optimal viewing conditions.

Planning a Scottish Highland Holiday in Spring 2024? Here's where you need to go!

Spring in the Scottish Highlands is a stunning time when nature wakes up from winter. The air is fresh, the landscapes burst with colours, and the wildlife is thriving. In this post, we'll explore some top places to visit for a Scottish Highland holiday in spring, including the Isle of Skye, Glen Coe, Applecross, and the Outer Hebrides.

The best places for a Scottish Highland Holiday in Spring

The Isle of Skye

Known for its rugged landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and mystical atmosphere, the Isle of Skye is a must-visit in the Scottish Highlands. In spring, the island comes alive with wildflowers covering the hills and cliffs. Check out the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing (pictured), and the Fairy Pools, where the mix of greenery and ancient rock formations is captivating. We also highly recommend a trip to The Coffee Bothy in Broadford for a cake or two!

The Quiraing

The Old Man of Storr

Glencoe

Famous for its glacial landscapes and steep-sided mountains, Glen Coe is a geological wonder that gets even more special in spring. As the snow melts, the glen turns into a green valley with blooming heather and native plants. Hikers can explore various trails with panoramic views, taking in the essence of spring against the backdrop of peaks like Buachaille Etive Mor. From here you can also visit Fort William, The Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Ben Nevis. It's a great base for hiking, exploring, and simply taking in all the views with a good book!

The Meeting Of Three Waters, Glen Coe

Glencoe Village

Applecross

We can't make a Highland holiday guide and not include our base, Applecross! If you're looking for a slower pace for your holiday with lots of fresh air, good food at the Applecross Inn or Walled Garden, and time to switch off from the world, Applecross is ideal! You've got the Bealach na Bà to travel over, and you can visit other places from here such as Torridon, Shieldaig, or Gairloch. There are plenty of beaches, walks, and wild swimming spots. Of course, no trip is complete without a Gallery visit!👋🏻

The Bealach na Ba

Applecross

The Outer Hebrides

Made up of islands off the northwest coast of Scotland, the Outer Hebrides blends history, culture, and natural beauty. In spring, the Machair—a fertile coastal plain—blooms with wildflowers, creating a beautiful scene along the shores. Visit the Isle of Harris for pristine beaches and the Isle of Lewis for the ancient Callanish Stones. The Outer Hebrides offer a mix of solitude and scenic beauty, making them ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape. If turquoise waters and tranquility (if you get the weather!) are your ideal vibe, this is the place to go!

Isle of Lewis

Isle of Harris

Before You Go...

Spring in the Scottish Highlands is a time of renewal, and these destinations—Isle of Skye, Glen Coe, Applecross, and the Outer Hebrides—offer a great mix of colours and experiences. Whether you're captivated by the landscapes of Skye, the glen of Glen Coe, the quiet charm of Applecross, or the beauty of the Outer Hebrides, the Scottish Highlands in spring provide a range of natural wonders and unforgettable moments. Wherever you go, we're sure you'll have a wonderful time.

Learn More About The Gallery & Applecross Here

Planning a spring holiday in the Scottish Highlands FAQS

What are the must-see attractions in the Scottish Highlands during spring?

• Must-see attractions in the Scottish Highlands during spring include iconic landmarks such as Loch Ness, Glencoe, Eilean Donan Castle, the Isle of Skye, and the Cairngorms National Park, all of which offer incredible scenery and outdoor adventures.

Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in the Scottish Highlands during spring?

• While the Northern Lights are more commonly visible during the winter months, there is still a chance to see them in the Scottish Highlands during spring, particularly during periods of heightened solar activity and clear, dark nights.

Are there any springtime festivals celebrating Scottish culture and traditions in the Highlands?

• Yes, there are several springtime festivals celebrating Scottish culture and traditions in the Highlands, such as the Highland Folk Museum's Highlander's Festival, the Spean Bridge Highland Games, and the Loch Shiel Spring Festival,.

What are some scenic drives in the Scottish Highlands?

• Some scenic drives to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands in spring include the North Coast 500 route, the Bealach na Bà (Applecross Pass), the A82 through Glencoe, and the A939 through the Cairngorms National Park, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Highland Photography Across The Seasons

There's no place like the Scottish Highlands for capturing varied landscapes across the season. Whether you're shooting in winter or summer, each one offers dramatic scenes with ever-changing weather and so much opportunity for experimentation. Here's how you can make the most of Highland photography in each season.

Highland Photography in Spring

As winter fades, spring brings vibrant wildflowers, green leaves, and cascading waterfalls. To make the most of this season, embrace the soft, diffused light of spring mornings for dreamlike shots. Capture the intricate details with macro shots of blooming flowers and dew-kissed foliage. Experiment with long exposure to capture the mesmerizing flow of water in waterfalls and streams.

Beinn Alligin Sunrise

In Spring we can also be grateful as the sun starts to rise earlier & set later, making for incredible mountaintop camps that give you the best of both, like this panorama captured on Beinn Alligin above Torridon.

Sunset over the Aonach Eagach and Glen Coe

This image was taken on a glorious May evening looking over the Aonach Eagach and Glen Coe at sunset, where the heat at sea level provides hazy colours and a dream-like feel. You're also able to see the green gradient rising to the greys and browns of the upmost peaks.

Highland Photography in Summer

Summer paints the Highlands with lively greenery, buzzing insects, and golden hour opportunities. Leverage the extended daylight hours for golden hour shots, emphasizing warm hues. Focus on capturing the dynamic contrast between the lush green landscapes and the clear, blue Highland skies. Utilize a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare on the surfaces of serene lochs.

Highland Cattle

This photo of the Applecross Fold grazing in the glen is a great example of the lively summer greenery mentioned above, alongside the way that those blue skies give everything that bit more vibrancy.

Shieldaig Sunset

This image looking over Shieldaig and the Torridon mountains is an ideal example of how you can utilize golden hour to add depth, dimension, and rich colour to your shots. It's also a testament to how planning is important, as Jack had looked at various maps to find this location, alongside planning the dates and times where the shadow payoff would be most effective.

Highland Photography in Autumn

Autumn transforms the landscape with warm hues, changing leaves, and misty mornings. Explore the play of light and shadows during the golden hour, highlighting the rich, warm tones of autumn leaves. Experiment with framing techniques to capture the tapestry of colors in expansive mountain ranges.

Walled Garden October Sunset

This is Applecross in autumn at its loveliest, when the leaves all change, and the golden light gives everything that bit more warmth, even as the temperatures start to cool!

Faoillinn Stag

Again, you can't help but think of autumn when you see this! It's also a classic example of how you can use foliage, trees, or rockery to help frame an image. You feel almost like you're the person behind the camera, stealthily moving around the trees to capture the stags.

Highland Photography in Winter

If you time it right, winter blankets the Highlands in snow, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. Elevate your winter photography by capturing minimalist shots of snow-covered landscapes, emphasizing the stark beauty of the Highland scenery. Use a tripod for long exposure shots to capture the soft, serene glow of winter landscapes under moonlight. Keep an eye on the aurora forecast – winter nights offer the chance to photograph the elusive northern lights, adding an enchanting element to your Highland winter portfolio.

Mountaintop Aurora

Here's one of Jack's aurora images, which used a long exposure to help capture the dancing green lights in an ethereal manner. Having a mountaintop camp like this is an experience unlike anything else.

Camusunary Bay, Isle of Skye

This image showcases how dramatic the lighting can be in winter, with the clouds being thin enough to diffuse the sunrise light, changing the colours to pinks and purples, literally lighting everything like a neon sign! You start with the freezing snow clouds on the left and experience a gradient as you head toward the sun.

What You Need To Know

In every season, the Highlands present unique photographic opportunities, from the vibrant rebirth of spring to the serene frostiness of winter. Armed with these seasonal photography tips, you can elevate your skills and create a stunning visual narrative throughout the year. Explore and capture the ever-changing Scottish landscape, where each season tells a distinct story.

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Scottish Photography FAQs

What are some iconic photography locations in Scotland?

• Iconic photography locations in Scotland include the Isle of Skye with its fairy pools and Old Man of Storr, Glencoe for its dramatic landscapes, Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, and the remote Isle of Lewis with its stunning beaches and ancient standing stones.

What are some tips for capturing the Northern Lights in Scotland?

• Tips for capturing the Northern Lights in Scotland include choosing a location away from light pollution, monitoring aurora forecasts, using a fast lens with a wide aperture, setting a long exposure time, and experimenting with ISO settings to capture the aurora's ethereal beauty.

Where are the best locations in Scotland for capturing wildlife through photography?

• Some of the best locations in Scotland for capturing wildlife through photography include the Cairngorms National Park for red deer and mountain hares, the Isle of Mull for white-tailed eagles and otters, and the Scottish Highlands for red squirrels and birds of prey.