Can a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 photograph the Aurora Borealis?
Asked 1/4/2011
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2 answers
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I’m planning a trip to Alaska to see the Aurora Borealis and currently have a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 point-and-shoot. Can this camera produce decent aurora photos, or is it too limited? If it’s not a good fit, what features should I look for in an affordable camera and lens setup for aurora photography?
Originally by user2971. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2971
15y ago
2 Answers
11
There is an excellent article entitled "How to Photograph the northern lights" that basically states with a point and shoot, it's very difficult to get good pictures. It looks like your camera is one of the higher-end, it should be alright, they have some specific recommendations that I've copied below. It also gives a list of cameras that might do the trick. Good luck!
If you have an digi cam with some advanced features, read your manual and see if it looks usable for aurora. You want:
- 400 ISO, preferably 800 or higher
- bulb mode
- manual focus option
- self timer release
- wide angle lens
Originally by user2692. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user2692
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes, but with limitations. A point-and-shoot like the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 may capture the aurora, but getting good results is difficult compared with a more advanced camera.
For aurora photography, the most useful features are:
- ISO 400, preferably 800 or higher
- bulb mode or long-exposure capability
- manual focus
- self-timer or remote release
- a wide-angle lens
If your FX35 offers enough control over exposure, focus, and ISO, you may be able to get acceptable shots, especially with a tripod and self-timer. However, point-and-shoot cameras are generally limited in low light, so expectations should be modest.
If you decide to upgrade, prioritize a camera and lens setup that gives you strong low-light performance, manual controls, and a wide-angle lens. Those features matter more than a specific model name when photographing the northern lights.
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AI15y ago
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