Your session

A few minutes in the chair, one portrait, a lot of color. Here's everything to know before you sit down.

A few sec

Get situated

Hands on the biofeedback sensors, find your stillness — up to fifteen seconds of it for the exposure.

~3 min

Colors develop

Long analog exposure onto Instax Wide film.

Yours

Decode your colors

A written interpretation guide comes with your print, plus our online aura interpreter. No verbal reading happens on site.

the aura obscura camera setup
the analog aura camera setup
hands holding the aura obscura keepsake card with a warm aura portrait
your portrait, in its keepsake card
smiling guest holding her keepsake card
ready to take home
a spread of aura portraits, each one unique
no two prints alike

FAQs

How does an aura camera work?
An aura camera works by using biofeedback sensors to measure the energy emitted from the body, then translating that information into colors displayed on the photograph. A session moves fast — a few seconds to get situated, an exposure of up to fifteen seconds, then about three minutes for the colors to develop on film.
Will someone interpret my aura for me on site?
The standard session is photography-first — your photographer keeps things moving between guests, so a sit-down reading isn't part of it. That said, you're always welcome to ask quick questions when there's a moment. Every portrait comes with a written interpretation guide plus our online aura interpreter for going deeper at your own pace, and sessions with a dedicated verbal interpretation are offered in select cities as a separate option at booking.
Is an aura camera safe?
Yes. Aura cameras don't emit any harmful radiation or energy, and the process is completely non-invasive.
How accurate are aura cameras?
The accuracy of aura cameras is a matter of debate, where even meanings of colors are loosely subject to interpretation. Aura photography is not a scientifically recognized practice — take what resonates and use it as a starting point for self-inquiry.
Who can have their aura photographed?
Everyone from age 7 up, including pregnant women — anyone who can sit still for the photograph. Little ones under 7 are welcome to join a parent's portrait instead, since their hands are still too small for the biofeedback sensors. Pets need special sensor plates that our touring setup can't carry just yet.
How do I prepare for my session?
  1. Low energy, fatigue, hangovers or recent health issues may affect your portrait.
  2. Solid dark tops photograph best.
  3. Remove reflective accessories before the shoot.
  4. Be able to keep still for up to fifteen seconds — the exposure is long, and movement means blur.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Sessions are by appointment only. Pop-up dates are announced on Instagram @auraobscura_ — join the newsletter on the homepage to get them by email too.
Can I do a re-shoot?
Yes, at the same price as a usual session. The camera is analog and needs long exposures, so blurry shots happen if you can't keep still. Keep in mind retakes aren't likely to show wildly different aura results.
Do you only offer solo portraits?
Couples and parent/child portraits are warmly welcome — up to two people per portrait. A duo portrait shows the single combined aura you share, on one print at no extra charge; if you'd each love a copy to keep, simply book two sessions.
Do you do family portraits?
The camera reads the energy of two people at most. Children under 7 are welcome to join their parent or guardian — the photograph reflects the parent's energy with the child present.
What does a session include?
One portrait printed on Instax Wide film, a written interpretation guide, and access to our online aura interpreter. See Your Aura for how to read your colors.

Book your session