The winter sun: Iceland

Iceland offers some of the most striking and unique natural landscapes on Earth, that feel well, not from Earth. Hence, why it's been the location for films like Interstellar, Game of Thrones, Star Wars, etc. It's one of those unique places where you truly feel like you're IN the world of these films.

From towering waterfalls to sweeping glaciers, this island feels carved for the adventurous with visual wonders that will stop you in your tracks. I was blessed to photograph this wonderful place, and I'm taking you on a journey with me to explore Iceland's raw beauty through carefully selected and colored images.

Whether you're planning to visit Iceland yourself or want to experience its profound beauty from afar, this gallery will provide a vivid glimpse into dramatic Iceland landscapes and arctic culture.

The Frigid Heights of Iceland’s Waterfalls

Waterfalls are among Iceland’s most iconic features. The country’s volcanic activity and abundant rivers create dramatic cascades that attract photographers and travelers alike. Each waterfall has its own character, shaped by the surrounding landscape and water flow.

• Gullfoss: Known as the “Golden Falls,” Gullfoss plunges in two stages into a rugged canyon. The mist often creates rainbows, adding magic to the scene.

• Seljalandsfoss: This waterfall is famous for the path that allows visitors to walk behind the falling water, offering a unique perspective.

• Skógafoss: With a drop of 60 meters and a width of 25 meters, Skógafoss produces a powerful curtain of water visible from afar.

  
  

These waterfalls are not just beautiful; they also tell stories of Iceland’s geological past and ongoing natural processes.

Glaciers and Ice

Iceland’s glaciers cover about 11% of the country’s landmass. These massive ice sheets shape the terrain and influence the climate. There's a noticeably cold wind that blows in from the north, likely influence by the glacial terrain and snowcapped mountains inland.

• Sólheimajökulll Glacier: A rapidly retreating 8–11 km long outlet glacier of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap in southern Iceland. Closest glacier to Reykjavik and with only one day to explore the south coast, it's your easiest access point check out a glacier up close. Only regret, not taking a hiking tour...

Coastal Views and Black Sand Beaches

Iceland’s coastline offers dramatic contrasts between the Atlantic Ocean and volcanic shores. The gallery includes:

• Reynisfjara Beach: Known for its black sand, basalt columns, and powerful waves, this beach is a favorite for photographers.

  
  

We arrived as the sun began to set on a perfectly clear and unseasonably warm day. The waves we're vibrating the ground as we walked through the volcanic rocks to catch our first glimpse of the ocean, the waves, and the black "sand". There's unique basalt columns lining the cliffs and the snowcapped glaciers behind you. What an awe inspiring place. It's hard to capture in words or images, the feeling and experience that one can have at this beach, but you'll see my attempt below.

Northern Lights from Reykjavik

One of the most magical sights in Iceland is the aurora borealis. Unfortunately, we didn't get the KPI readings needed for vibrant Northern Lights. That didn't stop us (and many others) from still flocking to the Northern Lights viewpoint in Reykjavik to squint hard enough to catch them. Luckily, with a camera and tripod you can see light beyond the naked eye and well, I captured the green glow of some faint auroras.

Tips for Photographing Iceland

If you plan to visit Iceland and capture your own photos, consider these details!

• Timing: The sun rises in the February winter around 9:45am. When you research this before departing, you don't think much of it. But when you wake up on your first morning, it's an experience. 9:45 feels like 6:45 and the full morning's light doesn't arrive until around 10:30am. In one way, you get the reward of a sunrise, without the struggle of waking up early. In another way, usable light doesn't arrive until 10:30am. Additionally, the sun remains low throughout the whole day, creating nice but, albeit, harsh light in the middle hours. Blue hour and golden hour seems to last at least twice as long which is a beautiful thing for cinematic photographers and filmmakers.

• Weather: Iceland’s weather changes rapidly. One minute you'll be in the sun, the next you'll be driving through a white-out blizzard. Dress in layers and be prepared for rain, wind, and cold. We dressed in plenty of layers and stayed warm throughout the days. Be sure to have a solid waterproof jack and rain pants that you can wear over your dry pants. A waterproof housing for your camera is recommended even though we we're blessed to not have to use one!

• Equipment: A packable tripod is essential for long exposures, especially for waterfalls and Northern Lights. Zoom lenses (especially a 70-200) will enhance your images and field of view tremendously. The scale you can create in Iceland is unlike any other place I've been and I really wish I had a 70-200 with me.

  
  

These pro tips will help you make the most of your adventure! Pace yourself wisely and enjoy God's wonderful creation.

Explore Iceland through my photos

Our Iceland photo gallery offers a window into the country’s diverse landscapes. Each image tells a story of natural forces at work, from ice and fire to water and wind. Whether you are drawn to the power of waterfalls, the stillness of glaciers, or the mystery of volcanic fields, the gallery provides inspiration and insight.

Take your time exploring the photos. Notice the textures, colors, and shapes that define Iceland’s scenery. Imagine standing in these places, feeling the cold air and hearing the sounds of nature. This visual journey encourages a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.