Iceland is one of my favorite countries in the world. It is a country that is made for landscape photographers. It is truly epic and breathtaking. The country is quite small, but there is so much to photograph, from Waterfalls, Northern Lights, Lupins, Icelandic Horses, Puffins, Glaciers, Flowers, Mountains, and incredible rock formations.

It's also a country where more than one visit will be needed; there's just too much to see. You could happily spend a couple of weeks driving around the ring road, visiting well-known locations like Diamond Beach, Black Sand Beach, Vik, Skogafoss, and Vestrahorn. Yet there are so many other locations. You will continuously stop the car and take photos of something you see along the ring road.

It is also one of the easiest countries in the world to drive in. Everyone speaks perfect English, and it is so safe.

You will undoubtedly return with amazing photos and the desire to return.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

It is tough to say. I was there in April, June, and November. I have enjoyed each visit despite how different it feels to be there when it is cold vs warm.

During the Summer months, you will appreciate how green the countryside is and the beautiful lupins. The winter is the best time for the Northern lights.

During the summer, you’ll experience warmer temperatures and long days of sunlight. This is called the midnight sun since the sun never really goes down, especially in June. However, even if you visit during the summer, bring a down jacket and a rain jacket it can get cold.

How is the Food?

In general, the food in Iceland is excellent. If you eat fish, you will really enjoy the fresh cod. Also, do not miss trying the cod. The only thing you might not like is the price of food. Like everything in Iceland, it is expensive.

In Skogafoss, Bistro Bar in Hotel Skogafoss is quite good. In Vik, we had a wonderful dinner at Restaurant Suður-Vík. It is a very cute restaurant owned by local women. If you make it to Hofn, on the east coast, there is an excellent restaurant called the Pakkhús Restaurant. Finally, in Stykkishólmur we had an excellent dinner at Narfeyrarstofa.

Hotel Recommendations?

Most of the hotels I have tried in Iceland have been very good. They are super clean, and the staff are friendly. Here are the hotels we have tried so far:

The REtreat at the Blue Lagoon

There are 2 hotels at the famous Blue Lagoon. There is the Silica Hotel, which is located right at the Blue Lagoon and the Retreat. The Retreat is the higher-end hotel. The rooms and food are just fabulous. They even have a Michelin Star Restaurant. This is a great stop for 1 -2 nights at the beginning or end of your trip so you can relax in the geo-thermal water.

Skálakot Manor Hotel

We loved this Bed and Breakfast hotel. They have an incredible restaurant and a horse farm on the property. The rooms are very cozy.

Hotel Vík í Mýrdal -

This is a good hotel in Vik. They have a nice restaurant, lots of parking and a good restaurant.

Hótel Kría

Hotel Kria is brand new. They opened in 2022, so the rooms are very modern and clean. They also have a good restaurant and very friendly staff. I preferred this hotel over the Vik Myrdal.

Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon

The only thing that is good about this hotel is the location. It is close to Diamond Beach. The rooms are average, and the restaurant is something you will quickly forget.

The Reykjavik EDITION

This is a very elegant hotel right in the heart of Reykjavik. The hotel is located right by the water, and they have a wonderful restaurant—definitely a great choice if you decide to stay 1-2 nights in the capital.

Guesthouse Hvammur

This guest house is very basic, but it’s located close to Vestrahorn. Please note that they have a communal bathroom on each floor.

Arnarstapi Hotel

The Arnarstapi Hotel is located on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. So if you are going to Kirkjufell, this could be a great option. We were pleasantly surprised by the modern hotel. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from Arnarstapi, which is on my Photography location list for Iceland.

Hotel Latrabjarg

If you are going to make the trek to Latrabjarg the hotel is a good choice. It is about 40 minutes from the famous cliffs where people go to photograph Puffins. The owner is quirky but very friendly.

Park Inn by Radisson Reykjavik Keflavik Airport

Finally, if you are staying right by the airport for an early flight home, this hotel is a good option. The rooms are nice and clean, and there is a good restaurant.

PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

Camera Bag---I would recommend bringing a camera bag that is waterproof or at least water resistant with a rain cover that protects your gear when it rains. I used my Shimoda Explore V2 30-liter backpack. You should also consider that some of the hikes are challenging, so you don't want to be overloaded with gear. I like the size of the Shimoda backpack, and the built-in Rain Cover came in handy.

Camera & Drones- You will need a camera that is well-suited for difficult weather conditions. The camera should be weather-sealed. (i.e, Canon R5/R6, Nikon Z7/Z8/Z9, Sony A7V4 etc). I cannot emphasize enough that in the winter months, your camera will be tested to the limit. Two members of our group had their cameras submerged in ocean water. Luckily, both cameras survived since they knew that the first thing to do was remove the battery. I would definitely bring a Drone. If its not too windy Drones are awesome in Iceland.

SSDs and SD Cards - I ended up shooting 5,000 photos in 6 days, so you definitely need large-capacity CF Express Cards or SDs. I went through 2 (128GB SD Cards) and started a third one, so I would bring lots of SDs with a small SSD to download your photos at night. I used the Samsung T5 and T7 SSDs, and they are very fast yet compact.

Lens - If you are going light, you only need 2 lenses, one that shoots wide (15-35mm) and a medium telephoto like 70-200mm. Faster lenses will be your best friend in Iceland since you might be able to photograph the Northern Lights. Pro Tip: A good starting point to shoot Northern Lights is to shoot around 16-24 mm, at f2.8, ISO 1600 -3200, for about 6 seconds. Here is a link to my guide on shooting the Northern LIghts.

So what did I bring?

I brought a Canon 15-35mm lens. This lens was great to get the landscapes and waterfalls. You really need a very wide lens to capture many of the locations. I was shooting at 15 mm quite often. The second lens I brought was my Canon RF 24-105. This is a very versatile lens that is wide enough for most locations in Iceland. I also brought a medium telephoto Canon RF 70-200mm. The advantage of this lens is that beyond being super sharp, it is also very fast. I used the lens more than I would have thought. The lens was very good for capturing some of the dramatic waves.

Tripod—I brought my RRS Travel Tripod with a BH-40 Ballhead. This particular tripod was heavy enough for Iceland. A tripod is essential for Northern Lights and many situations in Iceland where lighting is not optimal. Since it is so windy, you want to bring a heavier tripod. I think a light travel tripod would blow away or topple over with your camera.

Filters - I am super happy with my Kase Filters. The magnetic system makes putting filters and taking them off so quick. I brought a Polarizer and a 3, 6, and 10 Stop ND.

Microfiber Towels - bring a lot of microfiber towels to wipe off our camera and lenses near waterfalls. I also used them to wipe down my gear at night. There is a lot of water that will not only get on your camera but also on your lens. I was constantly wiping down my camera and lenses. I would bring at least 3 microfiber towels. I also brought a rain cover for my camera. Lots of people just use a shower cap instead of the rain cover.

Winter Clothing & Gear

If you are going to Iceland during the Winter, you need to be prepared for cold weather. As photographers, we often stay in the same spot for hours on end which quickly makes you cold. During the winter Iceland trip, we experienced a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions.

In the morning, it was very cold, but by midday, temperatures warmed up. It rained and snowed, and it was very, very windy. So, the best thing is to have multiple layers of clothing. Waterproof gortex clothing is highly recommended because it will definitely rain. I think wearing multiple layers is the best option to keep you warm and dry. I usually had four layers on top and three layers on my legs

Here is a link to my WInter Clothing Packing List

The Best Photography Locations in Iceland

Below are some of my favorite photography locations in Iceland so far. There are still so many spots I have not reached. I’ve placed these in order, running from the West to the Eastern part of the country. Of course, there are many more beautiful spots in Iceland, and stumbling upon the less popular spots is always fun.

Probably the most iconic locations are along the Southern Coast. So driving from Keflavik Airport with stops along the way to Hofn is an excellent idea. However, the SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA is really something not to be missed. We also loved the Westernfjords. Yet, despite 3 visits, there is so much more to discover.

Photography Locations Map

PUFFINS

On our last trip to Iceland in June we really wanted to see Puffins again. You can see Puffins between June and August in Iceland. We saw them at the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, Black Sand Beach, Ingólfshöfði, and the Latrabjarg Cliffs. You will also find them in the Western Islands and other locations in Iceland. They are challenging to photograph, but I just love them.

Icelandic Horses

The Icelandic horse is a breed of horse developed in Iceland. They are simply beautiful to photograph. Oftentimes, you will be driving down the road and see them behind a fence along the road.

Icelandic horses tend to be smaller, at times pony-sized. Despite being small they are very strong and live long lives.

When you see them by the roads, they will often come right up to you to say hello.

Lupins

Why Does Iceland Get So Many Lupine Flowers? Lupine plants are unique because they thrive well in harsh conditions and rugged landscapes. So, how do they survive in such harsh conditions? They are able to extract nitrogen from the air and redistribute it to their roots. Basically, the lupine plant makes its own fertilizer.

The Southern Route, WesternFjords, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula

There are several ways to discover all the photography areas of Iceland. Some people like to drive the Ring Road. The Ring Road is the Road that circles Iceland. We have driven the South Coast Road from Keflavik Airport to Hofn, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the remote Westernfjords. So while we have seen a lot, there is still a lot more to discover.

South Coast of Iceland

One of the best drives in Iceland is to drive the Southern Coast. There are just so many locations to shoot. Here is a good guide to the South Coast. My list below is pretty comprehensive but there are still lots of places I need to visit.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss i probably my favorite waterfall in Iceland. What I love about this waterfall is that you can walk behind it. In the winter, the ice can be challenging to manuver but its ’s well worth it. You might even get lucky and see a rainbow.

The path behind the waterfall provides an opportunity for some very unique shots.

In the Summer, there are flowers in front of the waterfall.

Skógafoss

Skógafoss Waterfall is probably the most famous waterfall in Iceland. There are so many people in front of the waterfall. While the waterfall is magnificent, I would highly recommend taking the 500 steps on the right side. It will bring you hiking routes that go on for miles (kilometers) and there are lots of waterfalls along the pathways.

The first time I was in Iceland, I went on a workshop with Nigel Danson, pictured below.

Once you hike to the top and pass the Hestavaðsfoss and Fosstorfufoss waterfalls, the views are amazing, and the walk is well worth it.

Kvernufoss

Yes, another waterfall! Kvernufoss is right next to Skogafoss but its’s much less visited. You can also walk behind the waterfall.

Dyrhólaey Lighthouse

Dyrhólaey is a lighthouse that overlooks Vik Beach. You can often see Puffins by the rock formations. There is also the Dyrhólaey rock arch and cliffs.

Reynisfjara Beach

Vik Beach is also known as Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. This is one of the most iconic locations to photograph in Iceland because of the black sand and beautiful sea stacks. As you approach the beach, there are lots of signs warning visitors to be careful. Yet, very few people pay attention. Check out this video on Sneaker Waves at Via Beach.

The waves can be more than 7 meters high (25 feet) today. The first time I was in Iceland, a large wave came onto the beach. Most of us ran. But there is always that one person that does not think it’s a big deal. The wave flipped him over, and he was drenched. Luckily, he was okay but he had to change his clothes. and he even had a change of clothes with him. His camera also survived thanks to someone telling him to remove the batteries.

Vík i Myrdal Church

The church in Vik is stunning. In the summer, it is surrounded by Lupins.

I loved taking photos of this church from different angles with the lupins.

The Yoda Cave

The cave is located in Hjörleifshöfði mountain and is often called the Yoda Cave. The cave wasn’t well known until the Hollywood movie Star Wars Rogue was filmed there. You can find unique caves all around Iceland, but this one is special for its shape and the views you get when standing inside and watching the surrounding area as it opens.

While we were in the cave, three young women began singing. It was incredible.

Fjaðrárgljúfur

Iceland has some spectacular canyons, including Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon in South Iceland. It is located just west of Kirkjubæjarklaustur village. To reach the canyon, you turn left on road 206 for Lakagígar.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is around 2 km long and 100 meters deep. It was not well-known until a few years ago when Justin Bieber shot parts of his video "I'll Show You" in the canyon.

Svinafellsjokull

Svínafellsjökull is part of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. It is very popular with hikers. The road to Svínafellsjökull is quite challenging so you really need a 4x4 vehicle.

Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour

We absolutely loved our Puffin tour. The owner, Einar, is so friendly and welcoming. He is also a gifted photographer so he gave us lots of tips. I recommend the tour if you want to see Puffins. Here is a link to their website.

Iceland__72A9474__June 10, 2023-Edit.jpg

Iceland__72A9477__June 10, 2023-Edit.jpg

After the tour ends, a great spot to grab lunch or coffee is Cafe Vestajorkul.

Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is one of the most popular spots in Iceland. It is located by the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on the South Coast of Iceland. Icebergs from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon drift down right behind Diamond Beach and wash up on shore. .

You will see 100s of large pieces of ice all over the beach. I love this spot for long-exposure photos.

If you can reach Diamond Beach at sunrise or sunset, it would provide the best chances for some great photos.

Fjallsárlón Glacier Parking

Fjallsárlón is Jokulsarlon’s smaller and less well-known glacier. Fjallsárlón and Jokulsarlon are glacier lagoons, yet significantly different in size and fame.

Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon, bordering Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland. Its still, blue waters are dotted with icebergs from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, part of larger Vatnajökull Glacier. The Glacier Lagoon flows through a short waterway into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving chunks of ice on a black sand beach. In winter, the fish-filled lagoon hosts hundreds of seals.

Sólheimajökull

Solheimajokull Glacier has a ton of dramatic ice formations, including crevasses, rugged ridges, and sinkholes. Sólheimajökull is a glacier tongue of Mýrdalsjökull – the 4th largest glacier in Iceland. The black volcanic sand is what you see on the glacier.

Vestrahorn

This might be my favorite spot in Iceland. You will need to stop at the Viking Cafe by the entrance to buy a token that allows you to enter Vestrahorn. Since Vestrahorn is off the beaten path, it is less ‘touristy’ than many of Iceland’s other mountains.

I am standing in the water for this composition to get the reflection.

The black sand in this location provides such a beautiful contrast

I love the lone figure on the right side

We came back at night to see the Northern Lights at Vestrahorn. While it was not a fantastic display of Northern Lights, it was a lot of fun.

Eystrahorn Beach

Eystrahorn is one of those locations that is made for photographers. There was only 1 other person there when we arrived. I think it is so far away from Reykjavik that tourists don't get that far east. It is located by the Hvalnes Lighthouse, about 45 minutes drive from Stokksnes. Take a look at this YouTube Video from Mads Peters Iverson.

Westernfjords

The best way to get to the Western fjords from Reykjavik is to take the Baldur Ferry. It's about a 2.5-hour drive, and you can load your car onto the ferry. The ferry runs throughout the year, and it takes you from the town of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula to Brjánslækur in the Westfjords via the island of Flatey.

The drive to our hotel, Hotel Latrabjarg, was easy, with beautiful views. This hotel is very remote. It's really remote. Here is a good guide to the area.

Látrabjarg CLIFFS

The Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords are the westernmost point of Iceland and Europe. It is famous because there are millions of birds including Puffins. It is Europe’s largest bird cliff, 14 km (9 mi) long and 441 (1,444 ft) high.

Please take a look at this video we took on our iPhone. We were only about 6 feet away.

Látrabjarg is home to a wide variety of birds, in large parts thanks to the shelter and seclusion the cliffs provide as nesting grounds.

The main species are Puffins, Skuas, Arctic Terns, Guillemots, Eider Ducks and Razorbills. Of course, however, the stars of the show are the Atlantic Puffins.

Garðar BA 64 (SHIPWRECK)

The oldest steel ship in Iceland has been beached for years and is now a rusting ruin. Yet, it is fun to photograph.

DYNJANDI Waterfall

This is the largest waterfall in Iceland, and it’s massive. This spot is perfect to photograph with a drone.

Dynjandi is a waterfall located in Arnarfjörður in the Westfjords region of Iceland. It is the largest waterfall in the Westfjords and has a total height of 100 metres. Below it are five other waterfalls: Háifoss, Úðafoss, Göngufoss, Hundafoss and Bæjarfoss.

black church in Raudisandur

The black church is one of 3 black churches in Iceland. They are black because the exterior wood is painted with pitch, just like the hull of a boat, to protect it from the harsh Icelandic elements.

SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA

There is so much to see in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. If you only have a few days I might just come to this part of Iceland. Here are my recommendations for the best photography locations in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Here is a good guide.

Ingjaldshólskirkja

Located near the village of Hellissandur on the western tip of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. This church is so photogenic. This is a location that we did not have on our photography list, but we noticed the church on our drive. So we had to stop and take photos.

Svörtuloft Lighthouse

This lighthouse is found on the westernmost part of the volcanic Snæfelsnes Peninsula and maintains spectacular views over the western coastline.

Búðakirkja (Black CHURCH)

Búðakirkja is a small wooden church located on the south side of Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It is a local parish church established in 1703, but the church was built in 1848.

Since the church is Black, I thought it would look good in Black & White.

Arnarstapi

Arnarstapi is a village on the southern side of the Snæfellsnes peninsula, once a fishing hub and now a place for travelers to refuel before entering Snæfellsjökull National Park.

Kirkjufell

Kirkjufell has to be one of my favorite locations in Iceland. A large parking lot is located right next to the photography spot on the opposite side of the waterfall. This is a sunset photo, but I have seen incredible Northern Lights photos from this location as well.

Final Thoughts

I have merely scratched the surface of everything you can do and photograph in Iceland. It is such an epic location that should not be missed.

If you have enjoyed this guide to Iceland, please look at my other Photography & Travel Guides at this link.

Travel Photography

My Photography & Travel Guide to Iceland