Step-by-Step: How to Photograph the Northern Lights in Minnesota Tonight

I'm so thankful to live in a state where we've had amazing opportunities to view the Northern Lights.

READ MORE: Shooting Star Caught on Camera While Viewing The Northern Lights in the Midwest

Seeing the Northern Lights can be hard to predict, but there are some great tips to help you see this magnificent display in the sky.

Northern Lights May Be Visible in Minnesota on Wednesday, November 12th, 2025

I love meteorology!  Seeing the Northern Lights was on my bucket list for many years and I'll never forget the night when I finally had a chance to see them.  Since then, I've done my best to help spread the word on when these might show up again so others can have that same experience.  I try to give people a heads up as soon as I hear the Northern Lights are visible.  Follow my Facebook page - Jessica On The Radio - for updates.

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Basic Guide to Capture the Northern Lights on Your Phone

"Magic in the sky" is what I call the Northern Lights.  If you want to capture what you see on camera, drive away from city lights and then use these tips from photographer Spencer Jelinek:

iPhone Settings:

1) Use Night mode (iPhone 11 and later) or manual mode (third-party apps).
2) Set exposure: 10 - 30 seconds
3) ISO: Start between 200 - 400 and adjust as needed
4) Turn off flash
5) Focus: Manual or Infinity
6) Use a 3-second timer to avoid any camera shake
7) Turn on RAW Max if it is available on your phone to get the best quality

Android Settings:
1) Use Pro/Manual/Night mode
2) Set exposure: 10 - 30 seconds.
3) ISO: Start between 200 - 400 and adjust as needed
4) Turn off flash
5) Focus: Manual or Infinity
6) Use a 3-second timer to avoid any camera shake
7) Turn on RAW if it is available on your phone to get the best quality

If you want to get more technical, the photographer mentioned that you can just search Google or check YouTube for more specifics on taking photos of the Northern Lights.