Capturing Iceland in Winter: A Photographer’s Paradise
- Shawn Eastman
- Nov 29, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 13
Iceland in winter is a dreamscape for a travel and landscape photographer. Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” it boasts a surreal mix of snow-covered landscapes, geysers bursting through frozen terrain, and the mesmerising glow of the Northern Lights. My winter photography trip to Iceland was nothing short of magical - even if I was only equipped with the vintage Canon EOS 20D and a 24-85mm lens.
In this article, I’ll share my experiences, the stunning locations I captured, and tips to help you plan your own photography journey to this extraordinary destination.
Table of Contents
Snow-Capped Mountains and Rivers: Iceland’s Serene Landscapes
Iceland’s dramatic winter scenery is like stepping into a postcard. Snow blankets the ground, rivers weave through the frosty terrain, and mountains rise majestically in the background. Some of my favourite shots include picturesque bridges spanning icy rivers, creating a serene contrast of manmade structure against raw natural beauty.
Photography Tips for Icelandic Landscapes
Maximise Contrast: Use the stark contrast between snow and dark volcanic rock to create visually striking compositions.
Find Reflections: Seek out rivers or lakes for reflections that amplify the grandeur of the surrounding landscapes.
Use Leading Lines: Incorporate winding rivers or bridges to lead the viewer’s eye through your frame.
A road running through rural Iceland - Shot at 24mm, f/4.6, 1/2000s, ISO 100
Snow-capped mountains over a frozen lake - Shot at 24mm, f/6, 1/250s, ISO 100
Geysir Hot Spring Area & Strokkur: A Photographer’s Delight
The Geysir Hot Spring Area, home to the famous Strokkur geyser, is one of Iceland’s most iconic spots. Watching Strokkur erupt amidst a snowy backdrop is a moment of pure awe - and an unmissable photo opportunity.
Tips for Capturing Geysers in Winter
Be Patient: Strokkur erupts every 5–10 minutes, so you’ll have plenty of chances to get the perfect shot.
Fast Shutter Speed: Use a fast shutter to freeze the geyser in motion or slow it down for a dreamy, ethereal effect.
Wide-Angle Lens: Capture the full scene, including the steaming earth, snowy surroundings, and rising plume of water.
Arrive Early: The geysirs naturally attract many tourists, so if you want cleaner shots with less people make sure you're in position by sunrise.
An Icelandic geyser preparing to erupt - Shot at 24mm, f/8.3, 1/50s, ISO 100
Thingvellir National Park: From Daytime Snow Scenes to the Northern Lights
Thingvellir National Park offers some of the most breath-taking views in Iceland. During the day, the park’s snow-covered landscapes provide endless inspiration for wide-angle shots and panoramic views. At night, it transforms into a stage for the Aurora Borealis, painting the sky with vivid greens and purples.
Daytime Photography Tips
Layer Your Composition: Include foreground elements like snow-laden rocks or trees to add depth to your images.
Golden Hour Glow: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to capture soft, diffused light on the snow.
Capturing the Aurora Borealis
Use a Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for long exposures to capture the Northern Lights.
Camera Settings: Start with an ISO of 1600, a 20-second exposure, and a wide aperture (f/2.8 or wider). Adjust as needed.
Foreground Interest: Frame the Northern Lights with iconic elements like Thingvellir’s rugged terrain for context and scale.
Wrap Up Warm: It gets seriously cold late at night when the Northern Lights get into full swing so have appropriate clothing!
Check the Forecast: To visibly see the Northern Lights you need a dark, clear enough sky away from city light pollution, and for the lights themselves to be intense enough. Check the Iceland Aurora forecast to avoid any wasted night trips.
View over Thingvellir National Park - Shot at 24mm, f/4.6, 1/1600s, ISO 100
Thingvellir Church and the Icelandic Prime Minister's summer house - Shot at 85mm, f/5, 1/1600s, ISO 100
Aurora Borealis over the Thingvellir National Park - Shot at 24mm, f/5, 10 sec, ISO 1000
Aurora Borealis over Thingvellir National Park - Shot at 24mm, f/5, 10 sec, ISO 1000
Sun Voyager Sculpture: A Touch of Modern Elegance
The Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavík is a striking piece of art that beautifully contrasts Iceland’s natural landscapes. In winter, the sculpture takes on an almost ethereal quality, surrounded by snow and the shimmering waters of the bay.
How to Photograph the Sun Voyager
Symmetry Matters: Shoot from head-on to highlight the sculpture’s clean lines and symmetrical design.
Use the Sky: Incorporate a dramatic winter sky or colourful sunset to add emotion and atmosphere.
Minimalist Approach: The snow-covered surroundings lend themselves perfectly to minimalist compositions.
The Sun Voyager sculpture in Reykjavik - Shot at 24mm, f/6, 1/200s, ISO 100
The Blue Lagoon: A Sunset Dreamscape
While I didn’t photograph the iconic turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon itself (don't worry, I did bathe in it), the surrounding lakes near the entrance at sunset were a visual treat. The soft pinks and oranges of the setting sun reflected off the icy waters, creating a peaceful yet vibrant scene.
Tips for Photographing Around the Blue Lagoon
Timing is Key: Sunset provides the most enchanting light for this area, so plan your visit accordingly.
Play with Reflections: Use the still waters to capture reflections of the colourful sky.
Avoid Crowds: Arrive early or linger after most tourists leave to get clean, uncluttered shots.
Crystal clear lake near the entrance to the Blue Lagoon - Shot at 24mm, f/6, 2 sec, ISO 100
General Sunset and Rural Snow Landscapes
Some of my favourite moments came from wandering off the beaten path to photograph Iceland’s rural snow landscapes. The tranquillity of untouched snow and the vibrant hues of winter sunsets made for unforgettable images.
Pro Tips for Capturing Snowy Sunsets
Meter for the Highlights: Avoid overexposing the bright snow by metering for the highlights.
Use a Polariser: A polarising filter will enhance the colours of the sunset and reduce glare from the snow.
Look for Details: Small elements like isolated trees or footprints in the snow can make for evocative compositions.
A soft sunset over a snowy Icelandic landscape - Shot at 85mm, f/5, 1/2000s, ISO 100
A rural mountain landscape - Shot at 24mm, f/4.6, 1/1000s, ISO 100
Traditional Icelandic homes near the city of Reykjavik at sunset - Shot at 70mm, f/8.6, 1/30s, ISO 100
Practical Tips for Winter Photography in Iceland
Bring the Right Gear:
A weather-sealed camera to handle snow and cold.
Wide-angle and telephoto lenses for versatile shooting.
Plenty of spare batteries (cold weather drains them quickly).
Dress for the Weather:
Waterproof boots and insulated gloves are essential.
Wear layers to stay warm while waiting for the perfect shot.
Plan Ahead:
Check weather conditions and sunrise/sunset times daily.
Use apps like Aurora Forecast for Northern Lights tracking.
My Final Thoughts
Iceland in winter is a photographer’s wonderland, offering a diverse array of landscapes and unique moments to capture. Whether you’re chasing geysers, framing the Northern Lights, or soaking in the serenity of snow-covered mountains, this country will leave you spellbound. My winter photography trip to Iceland not only challenged me as a photographer but also gifted me with some of my most cherished images to date.
FAQs About Photographing Iceland
What makes Iceland a top winter photography destination?
Iceland offers unique landscapes like frozen waterfalls, snow-covered mountains, and the magical northern lights, making it a dream for photographers.
When is the best time to photograph Iceland in winter?
Late November to March is ideal, as you can capture the northern lights and wintery scenes while daylight is limited but sufficient for photography.
How do I photograph the northern lights in Iceland?
Use a tripod, a wide-angle lens, and a slow shutter speed (10-25 seconds). Set your ISO to 1600 or higher and adjust as needed.
What gear should I bring for winter photography in Iceland?
A DSLR or mirrorless camera, sturdy tripod, wide-angle and zoom lenses, extra batteries, waterproof bags, and warm, insulated clothing.
Are there safety concerns for photographers in Iceland during winter?
Yes, icy roads and strong winds can be hazardous. Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out.
Where can I capture stunning winter waterfalls in Iceland?
Popular spots include Skógafoss, Gullfoss, and Seljalandsfoss. Look for frozen formations around the falls in colder months.
Is drone photography allowed in Iceland?
Drone photography is allowed but regulated. Ensure you follow local laws and avoid flying in restricted areas or bad weather.
How do I protect my camera gear from the cold?
Use silica gel packs to prevent condensation, keep your camera in a weather-sealed bag, and avoid sudden temperature changes.
What settings work best for icy landscapes?
Use a small aperture (f/8-f/16) for depth of field and a lower ISO for reduced noise. A polarising filter can help manage glare.
Can I photograph wildlife in Iceland during winter?
Yes, you may spot Arctic foxes, Icelandic horses, and seabirds. Bring a telephoto lens for detailed shots.
What are some lesser-known winter photography spots in Iceland?
Consider visiting Vestrahorn Mountain, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, or the Diamond Beach near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
How do I photograph ice caves in Iceland?
Book a guided tour, use a wide-angle lens, and shoot with a tripod to capture the intricate textures of the cave interiors.
Are there tips for photographing during limited daylight hours?
Plan your shots around golden hour (short but dramatic light) and use the blue hour for softer, ethereal tones.
What post-processing techniques work best for Iceland photos?
Enhance contrast and saturation to highlight textures, adjust shadows for depth, and use selective sharpening for icy details.
Can I photograph the aurora in Iceland with a smartphone?
Yes, modern smartphones with night modes can capture the aurora, though results are best with a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
