CANADA: A solar storm this week has led to fantastic views of the Aurora Australis around the country.
Photographers have been out in the bitter cold taking pictures of the phenomenon, which was especially visible in the South Island.
Fairlie-based photographer Fraser Gunn said there was no single best place to see the aurora, although people further south would see more vibrant displays.
“As it gets bigger, you can see it anywhere in the lower South Island.”
The aurora was forecast to be active again on Thursday night, but Gunn said it would be hard to see until the moon set at about 1am.
Gunn said there were some key tips for taking your first aurora photo. It was essential to find a clear view to the south, unobstructed by mountains or city lights.
Camera batteries tend to drain quicker in cold temperatures, so make sure the battery is fully charged before heading out.
Then set up the camera with a slow shutter speed (20 to 30 seconds), an ISO of about 3200 and the lowest aperture possible – 3.5 or hopefully below,” Gunn said.
A tripod was vital for ensuring the camera stayed still during the long exposure.
Gunn advised manually focusing the camera on a spot in the distance, possibly the moon before it set.
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