Prepare to be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky—because the 2025 Northern Lights Photographer of the Year contest has just unveiled its winners, and the results are nothing short of breathtaking. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: this year’s collection doesn’t just stop at the Arctic; it takes you on a global odyssey, showcasing both the Aurora Borealis and Australis in ways you’ve never seen before. From the icy fjords of Iceland to the remote shores of Australia, these 15 award-winning photos will leave you spellbound.
On December 8, 2025, Capture the Atlas (https://capturetheatlas.com/) revealed the winners of its eighth annual competition, and the images are as inspiring as they are visually stunning. What makes this year’s contest truly special is its global reach—photographers from 15 countries captured 25 extraordinary shots, spanning locations like Norway, Finland, Greenland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and even New Zealand. Each photo tells a story of patience, skill, and the sheer magic of nature’s light show.
And this is the part most people miss: 2025 was a banner year for aurora enthusiasts, thanks to heightened solar cycle activity. While the solar maximum has peaked, geomagnetic storms continued to electrify the skies, bringing vibrant displays far beyond the polar regions. This meant photographers had unprecedented opportunities to capture the aurora in unexpected places—from volcanic coastlines to glacial lagoons, forests, and remote islands.
Dan Zafra, the visionary founder of Capture the Atlas and a talented photographer in his own right (https://petapixel.com/2025/10/19/photographers-dan-zafra-once-in-a-lifetime-shot-of-lightning-sprites-and-the-milky-way/), hopes these images will inspire others to chase the aurora themselves. “This collection is an invitation to explore the world’s most breathtaking landscapes under the glow of the Northern and Southern Lights,” Zafra explains. “It’s a reminder that nature’s wonders are always worth seeking out.”
But here’s the controversial question: With aurora tourism booming, are we risking the very landscapes we’re trying to capture? As more people flock to remote locations, how can we balance our desire to witness these phenomena with the need to preserve their natural habitats? Let’s discuss in the comments.
If you’re hungry for more, the remaining 10 stunning aurora photos from the contest are available on Capture the Atlas (https://capturetheatlas.com/northern-lights-photographer-of-the-year/). Each image is credited to its respective photographer, ensuring these artists get the recognition they deserve. Image credits: Capture the Atlas. Individual photographers are credited in the captions.
For those eager to dive deeper, explore related topics like aurora (https://petapixel.com/tag/aurora/), auroraaustralis (https://petapixel.com/tag/auroraaustralis/), auroraborealis (https://petapixel.com/tag/auroraborealis/), and more. And a quick note: PetaPixel articles may include affiliate links, so if you purchase through one, they may earn a commission.
So, what’s your take? Are these photos enough to inspire your next adventure, or do they raise concerns about the impact of tourism on pristine environments? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear from you!
