Northern Lights Photography Online Workshop

Northern Lights Photography Online Workshop in Tromso: A Friendly, Honest Review

If you’re planning a trip to Tromso and dreaming of capturing those iconic aurora borealis photos, a workshop like this could be a real game-changer. We haven’t personally taken this online course, but based on the details and reviews, it seems like a solid option—especially if you’re eager to improve your night photography skills without breaking the bank.

What we love about this workshop are two main things: First, the personalized attention offered in a small-group setting means you’ll get tailored advice and plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Second, the professional guidance from an experienced photographer, Delphin, who is praised for his clear explanations and hands-on approach.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this is an online course, so you’ll need to have your own photography equipment and be prepared for a learning session rather than a hands-on, outdoor chase. If you’re someone who prefers to be out under the Northern Lights rather than in front of a screen, you’ll want to pair this with an actual Aurora Hunt.

This experience suits travelers who are serious about photography, eager to get better shots of the aurora, and comfortable with online learning. It might be a particularly good fit if you’re traveling with a partner or small group and want to learn some technical tips in advance.

Key Points

• Focus on Skill Building: This is an online workshop designed to teach you techniques for shooting the Northern Lights, not a guided outdoor tour.
• Suitable for All Levels: Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, you’ll find value here.
• Personalized Support: The small-group format means direct access to a professional photographer.
• Additional Outing Necessary: To actually see and photograph the lights outdoors, you’ll need to book a separate Aurora Hunt.
• Affordable Price Point: At around $50, it offers good value for the knowledge you’ll gain.
• Convenience and Accessibility: Held at a central, easy-to-find location in Tromso and available online, making it flexible for travelers.

The Experience in Detail

How It Works

This workshop kicks off in a classroom setting at Wandering Owl’s location in Tromso. The meeting point is straightforward—Strandvegen 89, and the session lasts around two hours. During this time, you’ll receive online instruction via presentation slides, led by a professional photographer, Delphin. The focus is on teaching techniques to capture the northern lights sharply, even when they are moving swiftly across the sky, in challenging low-light conditions.

What’s great is that the workshop is designed to be accessible to everyone, whether you’re new to photography or already have some experience. The reviews support this; one reviewer commented that Delphin “explained every detail about how to capture the northern lights with our cameras and lenses,” emphasizing the clarity and thoroughness of the teaching.

The class includes refreshments—hot chocolate, tea, and perhaps some cookies—adding a cozy touch to what is essentially a learning session. This makes the experience comfortable and friendly, even in Tromso’s cold winter environment.

What You’ll Learn

The course covers techniques for photographing the northern lights in a location where they often appear. This might include advice on camera settings, composition tips, and how to work with your gear to get sharp images during the brief, fleeting displays of aurora activity.

Since this is an online workshop, you’re expected to have your own camera and lenses ready. The instructor’s guidance can help you optimize your existing equipment, whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a good compact camera.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback from past participants is quite positive. One reviewer called it “must-do” before heading out for outdoor aurora photography, praising Delphin as “an expert guide and photographer.” Another mentioned that it was a “jump start” to better photos, noting how much they learned about composition and editing.

Several reviews highlighted the knowledgeable guides and friendly atmosphere, making the session enjoyable and productive. The food and hot drinks also got a thumbs up, with one person saying the “delicious late dinner, soup, tea, hot chocolate” added a warm, welcoming touch to the experience.

What Are the Drawbacks?

The main caveat is that this is not a standalone outdoor tour. It’s an indoor, online instructional class, so if your goal is to see and photograph the aurora in the wild, you’ll need to book a separate Aurora Hunt. This means you won’t be out under the northern lights during the workshop—it’s more about preparing you to get the best shots when you do go out.

Another consideration is equipment. The course does not supply cameras or lenses, so you’ll need to have your own gear. This might be a limiting factor for absolute beginners who haven’t yet purchased or rented gear suited for night photography.

Lastly, since it’s an online course, you’ll need a reliable internet connection to access the materials. The login details are sent via email, so make sure to provide your email address when booking.

Is It Worth the Price?

At around $50.41 per person, this workshop appears to be quite a good deal given the personalized instruction and professional guidance. For those looking to sharpen their photography skills before braving the cold outdoor chase, this is an investment in your trip’s memories—and your future photos.

While it doesn’t include transportation or outdoor excursions, the value lies in learning techniques that can make your aurora photos much more impressive.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Wandering Owl Classroom

This is where the magic begins, in a comfortable, easy-to-find location in Tromso. Expect an interactive session led by a professional photographer, where you’ll watch presentations, ask questions, and get tailored advice. The fact that it’s in a familiar indoor setting means you can learn without worrying about cold weather or outdoor conditions, which can sometimes distract from the learning process.

Additional Outings

While the workshop itself doesn’t include an outdoor tour, it’s meant to prepare you for one. The Aurora Hunt is a separate booking, where you’ll join guides who take you to prime spots for aurora viewing, often with hot drinks and local snacks. Many reviewers recommend pairing this workshop with such outings for the best overall experience.

Practical Details

• Location: Strandvegen 89, Tromso, easy to find and accessible via public transportation
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Price: About $50.41 per person
• Group Size: Small, personalized groups
• Included: Online instruction, presentation slides, support, refreshments
• Not Included: Your own photography gear, outdoor aurora chase (must be booked separately), transportation to and from the workshop
• Booking Notice: Book at least 18 days in advance—it’s a popular choice
• Accessibility: Service animals allowed; suitable for most travelers with internet access

FAQ

Do I need my own camera and lenses?
Yes, the workshop does not provide equipment, so you’ll need your own camera and lenses to practice the techniques.

Is this suitable if I am a complete beginner?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that it’s great for beginners, with clear explanations that help you understand how to shoot in low-light conditions.

Can I join if I have some photography experience?
Yes, the instructor covers techniques that will help both beginners and more experienced photographers improve their aurora shots.

Will I learn how to photograph the Northern Lights specifically?
Yes, the focus is on techniques tailored to capturing the aurora borealis, including settings and composition tips.

Is there any outdoor component during the workshop?
No, the workshop is indoors and online. You’ll learn theory and techniques here, but to photograph the aurora outdoors, you’ll need to book a separate outing.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the workshop. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

How do I access the online course?
The login details are sent via email once you book. Make sure to provide your correct email address.

Is the workshop suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify, but since it’s an instructional session meant for adults with camera gear, it’s best for older teens or adults.

Can I do this workshop if I am not staying in Tromso?
Yes, since it’s online, you can join from anywhere, as long as you have internet access.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Workshop Best For?

If you’re heading to Tromso with a smartphone or DSLR camera and want to get serious about capturing the aurora borealis, this workshop offers a very affordable way to learn from a professional. It’s especially helpful if you’re new to night photography or want a boost of confidence before venturing out into the cold night for the real thing.

Travelers who already have some experience but want specific tips on photographing the lights will find this session valuable as well. Keep in mind, it’s not a guided outdoor chase, so if your main goal is to see and photograph the Northern Lights in action, you’ll need to add a separate outdoor tour.

Considering the reviews, the quality of instruction and the friendly approach make this a recommended choice, especially when paired with an outdoor Aurora Hunt. The lessons learned here can be the difference between just pointing your camera at the sky and actually capturing those breathtaking, sharp images you’ve been dreaming of.

In sum, this online workshop is a smart, cost-effective way to prepare your camera skills, boost your confidence, and maximize your chances of taking stunning Northern Lights photos during your Tromso adventure.