Finland Kittilä, Finland

This winter scene from Kittilä, Finland captures the northern lights arcing across a starry Arctic sky, framed by slender, snow-covered birch trees near the edge of a frozen lake. The soft glow of distant cabins and faint outlines of figures watching the aurora lend a tranquil, almost surreal quality to the scene. It’s a classic Lapland moment: crisp air, deep snow, and the dance of green lights overhead.

For aurora shots like this, use a sturdy tripod and wide-angle lens (14–24mm) to capture the full sweep of the sky. A fast lens (f/2.8 or wider) helps keep exposure times short, typically between 5 to 15 seconds, to preserve detail in the aurora. Set ISO between 800 and 3200 depending on brightness. Incorporate foreground elements like birch trees to give depth and context. Aim for nights with clear skies and check space weather forecasts for aurora activity.

Dress very warmly since temperatures can drop well below -20°C in winter. While many lakes are frozen solid and walkable, stick to marked or well-trodden areas for safety. Minimal light pollution just outside town makes it a prime spot for viewing the northern lights.