25 Stunning Northern Lights Photographs Honored By "Capture The Atlas" In 2024

To learn more about this year’s contest, Bored Panda reached out to Dan, the Editor in Chief, who kindly answered our questions.

First of all, Dan commented on the solar activity this year and how it affected the Northern Lights photos.

“This year, heightened solar activity has resulted in some of the most vibrant and dynamic aurora displays in recent memory. Photographers were able to capture intense bursts of color, including rare shades like deep purples and vibrant reds, thanks to the strong geomagnetic storms. 

The increased activity also expanded visibility further south than usual, allowing more people—and photographers in unexpected regions—to witness and document the spectacle. As a result, the photos submitted this year have showcased a remarkable variety of auroras, both in terms of intensity and geographic range, making this collection especially diverse,” wrote Dan.

We were wondering which locations stood out in this year’s competition. Dan shared: “Some of the most unexpected submissions came from places not traditionally associated with the Northern Lights, like southern parts of the United States, Southern Europe, Patagonia, etc. These locations stood out not just because of their rarity but because they demonstrated how far-reaching the aurora became during heightened solar activity.

Another standout was Namibia, where a rare and faint auroral display coincided with stunning desert landscapes, offering a unique juxtaposition of the night sky and arid terrain. These surprising locales remind us of the unpredictable and global nature of solar phenomena, making this year’s collection truly exceptional.”

As for the challenges that photographers faced in unusual places like Namibia and Arizona, Dan wrote: “Photographers in these unconventional locations faced a host of challenges, including light pollution and unfamiliar weather conditions. 

In Namibia, for instance, capturing faint auroras against a dark desert sky required precise settings and patience, as the display was much subtler than in polar regions. In Arizona, photographers contended with atmospheric interference and warmer temperatures, which can affect camera equipment during long exposures. Despite these obstacles, their perseverance resulted in unique and breathtaking compositions that highlight the versatility and creativity of aurora photography.”

We asked Dan to share how they decide on which photos are the best and what they look for.

“Selecting the best photos involves evaluating a mix of technical excellence, artistic composition, and the emotional impact of the image. We look for shots that balance sharpness and clarity with creative framing, often incorporating striking landscapes or unique perspectives. 

Additionally, we value images that tell a story or evoke a sense of wonder, whether through unusual colors, rare celestial phenomena, or unexpected locations. Ultimately, the best photos are those that not only capture the beauty of the Northern Lights but also transport viewers to that moment in time.”

Dan also commented on this year’s trends: “This year, we’ve seen an increase in the use of advanced post-processing techniques, such as focal blending and panorama stitching, to create immersive, high-resolution images. Photographers are also experimenting more with time-lapse and motion-blended images, which add a dynamic storytelling element to their work.

Another notable trend is the inclusion of human elements, like silhouettes or campfires, which add a relatable and grounded perspective to the grandeur of the aurora. These innovations reflect how photographers are pushing boundaries to make their work stand out while still honoring the natural beauty of the phenomenon.”

Lastly, Dan wrote what he hopes that people feel or learn from this year’s selection.

“I hope this year’s collection inspires awe and a deeper connection to the natural world, reminding viewers of the incredible beauty and unpredictability of our planet. The images showcase not only the splendor of the Northern Lights but also the dedication and creativity of the photographers who chase them. 

Beyond the visual impact, I hope people gain a greater appreciation for the science behind the aurora and how solar activity influences our skies. Most importantly, I want the collection to encourage curiosity and a sense of wonder, inspiring others to seek out these magical experiences for themselves.”

We also reached out to Jānis Paļulis, a passionate landscape and astronomy photographer from Latvia, with over 15 years of experience in it, to ask more about his photo of the Aurora Borealis.

First of all, Jānis explained what initially drew him to photography. He wrote: “I chase dream moments in nature, sunsets. Aurora and fog, in nice places with nature.

We were wondering how it felt for Jānis to witness and capture such a serendipitous moment. He shared: “I feel really nice about my result taking two beauties, the aurora and Milky Way, together.”

He also shared what made him shift his attention to the aurora, and how he adapted the shooting plan in the moment. Jānis wrote: “It is the solar maximum year, I paid a lot of attention to aurora activity, aurora pro app and aurora sky camera are helping me.”

As for the takeaway, Jānis wrote: “Actually, not thinking so much about that, I am more interested in the photography process and result, and dreaming about next-level photography. I know I have some better images, sometimes not so.”