Laura Stockemer 9/15/25 Laura Stockemer 9/15/25

National Day of the Cowgirl

Laura Stockemer 8/13/25 Laura Stockemer 8/13/25

Mastering Northern Lights & Night Photography with Your DSLR or Mirrorless Camera (Nikon Z9, Canon R5, Sony A1 & More)

After 13 winters photographing the aurora in Alaska, I’ve dialed in the exact DSLR and mirrorless settings that produce vibrant, sharp night sky images. Here’s my field-tested guide for cameras like the Nikon Z9, Canon R5, and Sony A1—plus cold-weather tricks for your next aurora hunt.

Laura Stockemer 8/12/25 Laura Stockemer 8/12/25

Best Phone Settings for Photographing the Northern Lights

Capture the magic of Alaska’s northern lights with just your phone. After thirteen winters chasing the aurora from Anchorage’s Hillside to Fairbanks backroads, I’m sharing my exact camera settings, gear tips, and secret viewing spots to help you get crisp, vibrant shots—even in the deep cold. Perfect for travelers and locals who want to shoot like a pro without carrying heavy gear.

Laura Stockemer 8/12/25 Laura Stockemer 8/12/25

Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots in Alaska: From Anchorage to the Arctic Circle

After 13 years of chasing the aurora across Alaska, I’ve learned that the best northern lights spots aren’t always the ones on travel brochures. In this guide, I share my favorite locations from Anchorage to the Arctic Circle—including secret hillside pullouts and remote riverbanks—so you can experience the magic like a true Alaskan.

Laura Stockemer 8/12/25 Laura Stockemer 8/12/25

Best Cold-Weather Photography Gear & Clothing

After 13 winters chasing the northern lights in Alaska, I’ve learned one thing—if you’re cold, your photos will suffer. In this guide, I share the exact cold-weather gear I trust, from weather-sealed cameras to boots that keep toes warm at -40°F. Whether you’re here for aurora photography or braving snowy landscapes, these local-tested tips will help you stay warm, protect your gear, and enjoy every shot.