I've noticed that many photographers and photo bloggers often share articles highlighting the most exciting locations for capturing landscape photos. Typically, these lists feature destinations already popular among photographers and tourists. Places are usually scattered across vast distances, sometimes even spanning different regions, states, countries, or continents. While each location is unique and appealing to photography enthusiasts, visiting them all requires significant travel. For instance, to photograph hot springs and glaciers in the US, one might journey from Yosemite in California to the Matanuska Glacier in Alaska. In contrast, if you want to capture a hot spring and a glacier in Iceland, you can complete that drive in just five hours between Geysir and Jökulsárlón.
A tourist or a landscape photographer?
For those who prefer to avoid the most tourist-heavy areas, Iceland also offers a wealth of geothermal sites and stunning glaciers, including outlet glaciers and glacier tongues, just waiting to be explored. The convenience of short distances between breathtaking natural wonders is one reason Iceland should be on your photographic bucket list. Additionally, the diverse array of colorful landscapes and attractions further enhances the appeal of visiting this incredible destination.
Why are there so many places for landscape photo opportunities in Iceland?
Landscape photography goes beyond just having the right gear and settings on your camera; it's about sharing the emotions and experiences you encounter in front of stunning natural wonders. When you invest time and resources into pursuing landscape photography, it’s vital to have a variety of captivating locations at your disposal. Thankfully, Iceland offers an abundance of such spots.
The land of ice and fire
Often referred to as the land of ice and fire, this phrase was once a clever slogan aimed at tourists, and it has certainly stood the test of time. I prefer to think of my country as a dynamic island forged from magma, water, wind, and the relentless forces of the ocean. Located north by the Arctic Circle and surrounded by the Atlantic, Iceland is a small volcanic island—roughly the size of Kentucky and just a bit larger than Portugal—which makes it easy to explore different regions in a short amount of time.
A country still in the make
Geologically, Iceland is one of the youngest landforms on the planet, constantly reshaped by the forces beneath its crust, magma and water. Between March 2021 and December 2024 we have had 11 eruptions at the Reykjanes Peninsula. Above ground, wind and ocean currents exert their own unpredictable influences. For millennia, magma has found its way to the surface in eruptions, lava flows, and tephra deposits approximately every five years. Water manifests itself in various forms, including rainfall, steam, snow, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers scattered across the island.
A young island still producing new landscapes
In its relatively short geological history of around 16 million years, this small island has birthed some incredibly complex landforms. The landscape is rich with photographic potential, from rugged shorelines to majestic mountain peaks, from bubbling mud pools to the pristine white of glaciers deep in the Highland. Each area presents a fresh marvel, often showcasing striking variations that contribute to an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. The interplay of these elemental forces has resulted in an extraordinary array of colourful, exotic, and unusual landscapes that are a delight to photograph. The opportunities are limitless if you know where to look and how to get there. So, what kinds of locations are we talking about?
What kind of natural wonders and landforms for photography do you find in Iceland?
When you explore the landscape section of any online photography community, you’re likely to encounter breathtaking work by talented photographers—images of mountains, shorelines, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and cliffs, just to name a few themes. Often, these photographs are enhanced by beautiful foreground elements or the effects of gentle winds or captivating weather. You might even find intriguing combinations, such as a mountain with a waterfall in front or a towering peak reflected in a serene lake. In many populated areas, great spots for landscape photography are few and far between, leading many photographers to frequent the same limited locations. However, this isn’t the case in Iceland, as you’ll discover on my photography website.
This small island is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and unique landforms. It’s estimated that Iceland boasts over 1,600 waterfalls of all shapes and sizes, each taller than two meters. Throughout the island, you’ll encounter fascinating calderas and hundreds of colourful craters—some filled with turquoise blue lakes—resulting from eruptions that occurred thousands of years ago and some that happened less than a decade ago or even ta few weeks ago. The landscape features extensive lava fields from various eruptions, ranging from sharp, fresh lava to soft expanses blanketed in green, brown, and yellow moss. If glaciers pique your interest, you’ll find numerous stunning outlet glaciers flowing from the main ice cap, with glacier tongues cascading over 1,600 meters and breaking apart along the way, often creating lagoons filled with icebergs below.
The vast variety of landscapes photography opportunities
Iceland is also home to vibrant geothermal sites that remain surprisingly under-visited. The island is crisscrossed by an infinite number of small and large canyons, ravines, and fissures, while striking basalt column stacks and colourful rhyolite mountains dot the landscape in abundance. The unique black sand beaches and vast "black deserts" in the Highland add to the visual appeal. We also have lava caves, ice caves, glacial rivers, spring-fed streams, fjords, mountains, stunning shorelines, intriguing cliffs, sea stacks, and tranquil lakes. The opportunities for landscape photography are endless, with nearly every type of landform appealing to photographers' eyes. The only notable absence is expansive forests or large areas of trees, as Iceland is characterized more by its vast open spaces. When you combine the short distances between locations with the incredible variety of landscapes to capture, Iceland becomes an irresistible destination for photographers. And believe it or not, there’s even more that makes this island so appealing to those behind the lens.
The natural light and the many different versions of the golden hour in Iceland
The term "GOLDEN HOUR" holds significant meaning for photographers, emphasizing the crucial role that sunlight plays in landscape photography. Many photographers center their work around the stunning light during sunrise and sunset, as this is when the sun’s rays are more horizontal than vertical. The long shadows, softer light, and warm hues of yellow or pink create magical moments. In many populated areas in the southern part of the northern hemisphere, the golden hours of morning and evening are relatively consistent throughout the year, with the sun rising and setting in similar spots on the horizon. However, this is not the case in Iceland, where one experiences multiple golden hours rather than just one.
Landscape photography and the many golden hours in Iceland
In the summer, particularly around the end of June, sunrise occurs in the north at about 12:30 AM, a little to the east, while sunset also takes place in the north but slightly to the west, approximately 23 hours later. In some northern regions, the sun may not set at all, merely dipping to the horizon before rising again. Conversely, in winter, especially at the end of December, the sun rises in the south, a bit to the east, around 10:00 AM, and sets six hours later, around 4:00 PM, slightly southwest. In winter the coastline in the north newer sees neither sunrise nor sunset. This fluctuation can be somewhat confusing, so let’s delve deeper as it’s essential for photographers visiting Iceland.
Take the Skógafoss waterfall as a prime example. Situated near Iceland’s south shore, it serves as an excellent illustration of how the golden hour transforms throughout the year. Standing at the base of Skógafoss, you face north, with the stunning waterfall in front of you. Its impressive square shape is bordered on the right by the eastern cliff and on the left by the western shoulder. In the summer, sunrise greets you from behind the waterfall in the east, while sunset occurs about 23 hours later, in front of you primarily to the west. Around 2:00 PM, when the sun shines directly on the waterfall, it hangs high above, casting bright, vertical rays of light. As a result, the golden hour stretches from around 11:00 PM to 2:00 AM, creating a magical period right at midnight behind the waterfall. Similar to northern areas, sunrise and sunset merge into an extended golden hour, offering photographers up to three to four hours of gorgeous light.
In winter facing Skógafoss waterfall, particularly in December, the sunrise is behind you, illuminating the waterfall and its cliffs with horizontal light. This often leads to a stunning spectrum of colors during an almost continuous golden hour that spans from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Around 2:00 PM, the low sun sends its rays directly at the waterfall, often resulting in breathtaking visuals, complete with rainbows appearing in the mist.
This unpredictability of the golden hour in Iceland presents challenges for photographers but is incredibly important to understand. When photographing Skógafoss, you may envision a shot inspired by something you’ve seen online. Yet upon arrival, you might find that the golden hour doesn’t align with your plans, instead appearing late at night when you’re probably resting in a hotel miles away. Furthermore, the lighting may be different from what you expected. On the positive side, however, Iceland offers a much longer golden hour here in the northern hemisphere than many locations further south. Both sunrise and sunset occur more slowly, providing photographers with ample opportunities to capture the perfect shot. Thus, planning a photo tour in Iceland requires careful consideration of the sunrise and sunset times for your chosen locations. During summer, you may need to stay awake through the bright nights and nap during the day, while winter grants you about six hours of daylight, with each passing minute falling under the definition of golden hour.
Adding to the complexity, everything in Iceland is significantly influenced by the striking changes between seasons and the unpredictable weather.
How are the seasons important factors in landscape photography in Iceland?
Iceland, like many other regions across the globe, experiences four distinct seasons, each characterized by its unique attributes. In comparison to numerous locations, the variation in temperature and precipitation across these seasons is pronounced. Various environmental factors contribute to the dynamic nature of Iceland's landscapes, which change significantly from month to month. For photographers, this indicates that any site of interest may present entirely different photographic opportunities in different seasons. Accordingly, when planning a photographic expedition, it is essential to select the appropriate season based on the desired aesthetic outcome.
The Highland and landscape photography
The most pronounced seasonal variations affecting photography can be observed in the Highland region of Iceland, which encompasses nearly one-third of the island and houses numerous unique sites, such as the vibrant rhyolite mountains at Landmannalaugar and the geothermal landscape of Hveradalir valley. The Highland is vital to the country and is being developed into the largest national park in Europe. It is worth noting that there is a common misconception among writers with limited familiarity with Iceland; the term "Highlands" is frequently misapplied, drawing parallels to the Scottish Highlands. However, Icelandic nomenclature designates this region as "Highland," without exception because there is only one Highland in Iceland.
Only in summer are the colourful rhyolite areas accessible
During the summer months, both Landmannalaugar and Hveradalir present a plethora of photographic opportunities due to their rich colours, diverse vegetation, snowflakes, steam, and various landforms. Conversely, in winter, this area transforms into a monochromatic landscape, enveloped in a thick layer of snow. Accessibility to the Highland is largely restricted to the summer and early autumn months, specifically from late June to late September. Therefore, for photographers wishing to capture the striking beauty of the Highland, it is critical to plan within this limited timeframe. Travelers should also note that a 4X4 vehicle is necessary, as most access routes consist of rugged dirt roads, enhancing the experience's adventurous nature.
Summer, autumn, winter, and spring
To gain a deeper appreciation of the seasonal variations in Iceland and their impact on photography, one may consider Gjáin, a small valley located at the periphery of the Highland. This picturesque location, often described as an oasis, offers an abundance of photographic opportunities. Gjáin is the result of volcanic activity, spring-fed waters, and harsh weather over millennia, providing an exceptional environment for photography. Notably, it is highly sensitive to seasonal changes.
As illustrated in accompanying photographs, Gjáin thrives in summer, showcasing vibrant colours, lush greenery, clear springs, and charming waterfalls. Autumn ushers in a transformation, with the foliage changing hues and some flowers wilting, while the trees contribute to the enhanced photogenic quality of the valley. In winter, the landscape becomes predominantly frozen and frequently blanketed in snow. With the onset of spring, as winter’s snow melts, the valley often appears muddied and unkempt, leading to a period from late March until early May that is typically considered less appealing for photographers.
In summary, when organizing a photographic tour of Iceland, it is imperative to consider how the varying seasons influence both the landscapes and the accessibility of photographic sites. These seasonal dynamics play a crucial role in determining the potential beauty and quality of the resulting photographs.
The weather is in control and cannot be ignored
In Iceland, weather conditions play a critical role not only in landscape photography but also in the daily lives of its residents. Weather serves as a powerful influence that continuously shapes the landscape and occupies the thoughts of Icelanders from an early age. It is often one of the first topics considered in the morning and the last point of reflection before sleep. Furthermore, it is frequently the most common subject of conversation among inhabitants. Consequently, should one find themselves in an awkward social situation with an Icelander, inquiring about the upcoming weather can lead to an extensive discussion.
Understanding the weather in Iceland
For landscape photography, understanding weather conditions is paramount due to its volatile and unpredictable nature. Notably, many visitors are surprised by the relatively narrow temperature range experienced in Iceland. In Reykjavík and across the island, winter temperatures rarely fall below -5°C (23°F), while summer temperatures typically do not exceed 16°C (60°F). However, it is not temperature that predominantly dictates the climate; rather, it is the influence of wind. During winter months, brisk winds can cause temperatures of -5°C (23°F) to feel significantly colder, approaching -15°C (5°F). Similarly, summer winds can affect temperatures, although they generally remain warmer than in winter.
Wind is the king of weather in Iceland
Thus, alongside temperature, wind speed is a vital consideration for landscape photography and photo tours. The wind speed in Iceland generally ranges from 0 m/s (0 mph) to gusts reaching 24 m/s (52 mph) across all seasons. This variability holds notable implications for photographers. Wind can reduce perceived temperatures and complicate outdoor activities. It is important to note that locations are typically most conducive to photography when wind speeds do not exceed 8 m/s (18 mph). Wind speeds ranging from 9 to 18 m/s (20 to 40 mph) can present challenges, and conditions above that threshold render photography nearly unmanageable. Moreover, the wind is characterized by its inconsistency, fluctuating between steady conditions and unpredictable, forceful gusts.
Additionally, wind speed can disrupt photographic outcomes, particularly when capturing subjects such as lakes with reflective qualities or stationary elements such as flowers or trees, especially during long exposure techniques. Upon arriving in Iceland, it is advisable to check the weather forecast each morning, as well as for the following day. Reliable and relatively accurate information regarding weather conditions, as well as wind speed and direction, can be obtained from the Icelandic Met Office.
Clothing and shoes, be prepared
Given the unpredictable weather in Iceland, having the right clothing is essential. There's hardly any season when you can comfortably wear shorts and a t-shirt, except for the occasional warm day in summer. If landscape photography is your main focus, appropriate clothing is a must. When planning to photography in the Highlands during summer, keep in mind that the altitude here can be significantly higher than along the coastline, resulting in cooler temperatures. To stay safe and prepared for the weather’s whims, you should dress as if you’re going on a hike. Plan to wear at least two layers of clothing and sturdy hiking shoes in summer, while in autumn and winter, aim for three layers along with a good, warm winter coat. Always have a reliable, rain-resistant coat handy. Don't forget crampons in winter, especially since many areas around waterfalls can become quite slippery from late autumn through winter.
Hiking is often required to visit interesting places
To truly take advantage of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, you'll often need to hike a distance of at least 2 to 3 kilometres (1 to 2 miles) with your gear. Being in good physical shape greatly enhances your ability to access various photography spots because some of the most breathtaking natural wonders aren’t reachable by vehicle. This doesn’t mean you need to be an athlete, but maintaining an average level of fitness for moderate hikes will open up more opportunities. For instance, Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon is a prime photography location featuring beautiful foregrounds, backgrounds, and small waterfalls, but getting there requires a mile hike. Similar hikes are necessary to reach Múlagljúfur, Landmannalaugar, Hveradalir, and the stunning Hengifoss waterfall.
Popular places in Iceland for landscape photography
If long hikes aren’t feasible for you, don't worry; there are still plenty of options around Iceland, primarily at popular tourist spots where you can snap great photos right after stepping out of your car. Observing well-known photo platforms like Flickr reveals that most images from Iceland are captured at locations that don’t require extensive hiking, including iconic sites like Mt. Kirkjufell, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Gullfoss, and Seljalandsfoss. This means there’s a wealth of spectacular options for those willing to invest a bit more effort and time to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
While these popular locations may experience crowds, they consistently offer unique and captivating vistas that skilled photographers can adeptly capture. For individuals with limited time and resources, visiting these well-known attractions remains a viable option. It is important to note that during the summer months, Iceland experiences nearly continuous daylight, with the golden hour occurring between 11 PM and 1 AM, allowing for opportunities to photograph these iconic sites with reduced crowds.
How are the seasons in Iceland for landscape photography?
Spring landscape photography in Iceland
Among the four seasons, spring is regarded as the least captivating time to visit Iceland. This season, which spans from late March to early June, is characterized by rising temperatures and the melting of winter snow. Access to the Highland regions is restricted, and many dirt and gravel roads become muddy, rendering them challenging to navigate. The landscape during this period often appears in monotonous shades of brown and gray due to the excessive moisture. Despite these limitations, there remains a plethora of locations that offer opportunities for compelling photography in spring. The diversity of the Icelandic landscape becomes evident during this time. Key destinations, such as the Golden Circle and the southern coast, remain accessible year-round and the Reykjanes Peninsulas present an array of natural wonders during the spring months.
Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, breathtaking coastal vistas, charming towns and villages, glacier lagoons, glacier tongues, icebergs, geothermal hot springs, and scenic drives. Notably, spring features a more convenient golden hour that occurs at manageable times in the early morning and evening, aligning well with conventional daily schedules. Coastal areas, particularly along the southern shore and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, offer numerous opportunities for stunning sunrise and sunset photography, as well as exceptional long exposure shots. Moreover, the weather tends to be more stable during this season, with fewer storms and high winds. Overall, spring presents a convenient and accessible time for travel and photography in Iceland, although it may not be as visually striking as other seasons.
Summer landscape photography in Iceland
As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, every region along Iceland's coastline bursts into bloom by the end of May. The Highland, the breathtaking heart of the island, gradually become accessible as the highland roads begin to open, typically from mid-June through mid-July. For landscape photographers, summer is an exhilarating time, and the rewards continue to unfold until the end of September. The variety of locations to explore and photograph is virtually limitless, showcasing nature in a stunning array of colors across mountains, flora, rocks, lava, and water. With the sun enhancing the landscape, the golden hours provide excellent opportunities for capturing beautiful shots. The overall weather conditions are significantly improved, and traveling between picturesque sites is a breeze. You can spend up to 18 hours a day discovering intriguing places to shoot, making it a struggle to put the camera down and go to sleep!
Don’t miss out on the scenic drives through the Westfjords and East Fjords. This season invites you to explore hidden gems like Landmannalaugar, Hveradalir, Laki, and Askja in the Highland all of which boast incredible photo opportunities that few get to experience. The positive aspects of the season, combined with favorable weather, abundant light, extended hours, and accessible roads, create both an adventure and a challenge. While photographers revel in the abundance of opportunities during this enriching time, the only downside might be the harsh midday light, which can be managed with filters or by flipping your schedule to embrace the night.
Autumn landscape photography in Iceland
In my opinion, autumn, spanning from late August to early November, is the most captivating season for photography in Iceland. As temperatures begin to dip slightly, the skies clear up, resulting in crisp air and vibrant color contrasts. Much like spring, this time of year offers a manageable golden hour during the early mornings and evenings, providing perfect opportunities for awesome sunrise and sunset shots. Throughout late September and October, the stunning autumn hues breathe new life into various landscapes, enhancing the visual splendor of the already beautiful sites. The popular attractions are also less crowded than in summer, making them much more enjoyable to photograph.
Perhaps most striking is how the Highland transforms in autumn; the landscape becomes utterly picturesque, especially with a thin blanket of snow gracing the mountaintops. It's undoubtedly a photogenic season, ideal for those looking to capture Iceland's beauty. Additionally, this time of year presents a thrilling experience, as late August through September showcases some of the most mesmerizing Northern Lights. Over the years, some of my favorite photographs have been taken in the Highland during this magical season. For anyone serious about photography in Iceland, a visit in the autumn is simply a must.
Winter landscape photography in Iceland
Winter presents a unique opportunity for photographers to explore Iceland and capture its stunning landscapes. For those living in regions where winter doesn’t bring snow or storms, Iceland offers a fascinating glimpse into the season's beauty and challenges. However, it's important to note that the photography results can often lean towards a darker and more somber tone. You shouldn't expect vibrant, cheerful images during this time. Keep in mind that the days are short and the weather can be highly unpredictable. It's not uncommon to find yourself stuck in a hotel for days without being able to take a single shot. Yet, winter does have its perks, even if it doesn't provide as many opportunities as summer does.
One of the major highlights of winter in Iceland is the chance to witness the magnificent Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis. You'll also find captivating frozen waterfalls with incredible icicle formations, explore unique ice caves, and venture beneath glaciers and across frozen lakes. From late November to early February, the sun barely rises, casting a low and magical light across the landscape that often features beautiful hues of yellow, purple, and pink, especially against a snowy backdrop. If you’re planning a winter photography tour in Iceland, it’s crucial to set realistic expectations about daylight conditions and the unpredictable weather. Failing to do so could lead to significant disappointment.
Best photo gear for a landscape photography tour in Iceland, lenses, configuration, and filters
Landscape photography represents the artistic endeavor of integrating remarkable landforms within the framework of "the rule of thirds" while incorporating an element in the foreground. Although it may appear straightforward, it presents various challenges. When capturing landscape images, it is essential to approach the subject closely while simultaneously achieving depth and sharpness in the photograph. An intriguing foreground object serves as an entry point for the viewer’s gaze.
A wide angel lens
A wide-angle lens, ranging from 14 mm to 35 mm, is an advantageous choice for this purpose, complemented by the flexibility of extending the angle to 35 mm when adjusting the composition. Given that landscape photographers frequently engage in hiking or walking to reach specific subjects, it is prudent to select lightweight gear. A recommended lens for overall landscape photography is a zoom lens of either 14–24 mm or 16–35 mm. Today I am using the Leica Q3 with a 28mm lens.
A light travel tripod is neccesarey for landscape photography
In landscape photography, a lens aperture larger than f/3.5 or f/4 is generally unnecessary, as rapid exposure is not a typical requirement. Here you are aiming for a larger depth of field. When operating at shutter speeds of 1/125 or slower, it is advisable to utilize a tripod to enhance clarity. For optimal sharpness, one should set the aperture between f/8 and f/22 and employ a tripod during shooting. Utilizing an aperture priority configuration or manual setting, it is beneficial to take multiple exposures ranging from 1/15 seconds to 2 to 4 seconds. Most cameras and lenses will yield satisfactory sharp images within this framework. However, the use of a tripod and a three-stop filter is often essential, particularly in bright sunlight, while requirements diminish in lower light conditions.
Today there is a great selection of cameras and lenses
During a photographic excursion in Iceland, one can achieve remarkable results utilizing any reputable camera brand, such as Nikon, Canon, Fuji, or Sony, paired with a 14–35 mm lens, a tripod, and three- and six-stop filters. Another great option today is the Leica Q3 with a fixed 28mm lens, extremely light and powerful camera. This equipment selection is conducive to landscape photography and caters to those desiring simplicity while achieving results that transcend the average photographer's capabilities.
A zoom lens for landscape photography
While many landscape photographers favour 24–70 mm lenses, a preference for lenses wider than 24 mm emerges when standing before a wonderful landscape photo opportunity. The more immersive the lens experience, the richer the narrative conveyed. It is also important to consider that certain scenes may necessitate a higher zoom level, ranging from 35 mm to 70 mm or beyond. Therefore, including a lens with a focal length of 70 mm to 200 mm in one's equipment is advisable.
Backpack for landscape photography
As photography in Iceland often requires trekking, utilizing a 20–30 liter backpack to accommodate one’s gear is a pragmatic choice. With the aforementioned equipment, photographers can effectively capture stunning landscape images throughout the diverse and picturesque regions of Iceland.
Organizing your landscape Iceland landscape photography tour is important
Despite its small size, Iceland is arguably one of the most captivating destinations for landscape photographers globally. The island's unpredictable weather, limited sunlight, and seasonal variations can pose challenges for visitors; however, the abundance and diversity of its natural wonders are unparalleled by any other country. For those with a passion for landscape photography, Iceland is likely a prominent point of interest on their travel agendas.
When planning a photographic expedition to Iceland, it is essential to comprehend the various factors influencing access to its remarkable natural sites and how these factors may impact one's itinerary. A fundamental aspect of this preparation is an understanding of the seasons, as each season significantly affects access to desired locations. Additionally, it is crucial to be prepared for varying weather conditions and temperatures for different seasons. Thoroughly researching the locations of interest and understanding the logistics of reaching them is advisable, particularly since photography stops typically require more time than a casual visit. A photographer often spends approximately 30 to 60 minutes at each location, determining the optimal angle, configuring the equipment, and setting up a tripod. Ultimately, careful organization of the photographic journey in Iceland will lead to superior outcomes.
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