The Land of Ice & Fire - Capturing the Natural Beauty of Iceland’s Majestic South Coast
Introduction
From towering waterfalls & expansive glaciers to dramatic black sand beaches & volcanic landscapes, Iceland – the Land of Fire & Ice - is packed with photogenic wonders that are unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Regardless of whether you are a seasoned or amateur photographer, photographing the South Coast of Iceland offers a breathtaking journey through some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes allowing you to capture the essence of this unique country - it truly is a photographer’s paradise.
I have been visiting the Land of Fire & Ice for over a decade, where I have captured the raw, untamed beauty of this country which never fails to inspire & challenge my creativity. This amazing country is one of my all-time favourite locations as a professional landscape photographer.
From awe inspiring aurora displays to visiting the Highlands of the Interior & experiencing a live volcanic eruption in 2023, I never tire of visiting & exploring the diverse & dramatic Icelandic landscapes with my camera.
Today, I lead photography workshops & tours across Iceland with my good friend & fellow Icelandic photographer, Halldor KR Jonsson (www.doriphotos.com) allowing us to share our passion & knowledge with our clients.
Amazing & Iconic Photography Locations
The south coast offers the photographer many opportunities to capture the unique landscapes for which the country is renowned for. The most popular locations include:
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, famous for the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall.
The 60-metre (197-foot) cascade of water plunges over a sheer cliff & the surrounding landscape is equally stunning, with lush green meadows, rocky terrain & distant mountains.
Because of its accessibility & photogenic qualities, Seljalandsfoss is a must-photograph location.
Skógafoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s largest waterfalls, Skógafoss is known for its impressive width & height
On sunny days, rainbows are often produced in the mist generated at the base of the falls offering the opportunity to capture a unique perspective.
Kvernufoss Waterfall
This is a beautiful waterfall tucked away in a gorge close to Skógafoss, where it is possible to walk behind the falls.
Photographing this waterfall allows the photographer to capture the magic of Iceland’s landscapes!
Dyrhólaey
Dyrhólaey is one of Iceland’s most iconic viewpoints, located on the southern coast near Vík, this location offers breathtaking vistas of the coastline, the black sand beaches & the surrounding landscapes.
The massive rock arch, from which the place gets its name ("Dyrhólaey" translates to "door hole island"), creates an incredible focal point for photography, but there are plenty of other features to capture as well, from the lighthouse to the coastal cliffs & birdlife.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most iconic & dramatic black sand beaches, located on the southern coast near the village of Vík.
Its stark black sands, towering basalt sea stacks, powerful waves & unique geological features make it a photographer’s dream.
Svinafellsjökull Glacier
Svinafellsjökull is a glacier in South Iceland & part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park.
With its stunning ice formations & relatively easy access. It’s a retreating glacier which used to extend much further.
Known for its beautiful blue ice, it has been used in several film productions, including Game of Thrones.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón is an absolute dream for photographers—there’s so much magic in this glacier lagoon with the floating icebergs & the constantly changing light.
Whether you’re shooting at sunrise, sunset or chasing the northern lights over the lagoon, this is a location which will inspire creativity at every angle,
Breidamerkursandur Black Sand Beach
Breidamerkursandur – informally known as Diamond Beach - is a photographer's paradise!
The contrast between the black sand & the sparkling, translucent pieces of glacial ice create such a striking visual.
It's especially amazing at sunrise or sunset when the light reflects off the ice in magical ways.
Whether you’re capturing close-ups of the ice or wide landscapes, there are tons of opportunities to get creative with your shots.
Vestrahorn Mountain & Stokksnes
Vestrahorn is one of my favourite locations to photograph - with its jagged peaks rising dramatically from the flat plains with the wild, windswept black sand beach & dunes in the foreground.
It's one of those places where the landscape almost feels otherworldly, especially when the light hits it just right.
Whether you’re after classic, dramatic shots or something a bit more abstract, there’s plenty to work with at this location.
However, locations which offer a ‘quieter’ photography experience can still be found at the following locations on both the south & south-east coasts: -
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Fjallsárlón is one of Iceland’s most stunning & often overlooked glacial lagoons, situated near the more famous Jökulsárlón but with a quieter, more serene atmosphere.
It’s surrounded by towering glaciers, icebergs drifting in the lagoon & dramatic landscapes that make it a fantastic location for landscape photography.
The combination of ice, water & sky create a unique canvas for a wide variety of compositions—whether you're interested in sweeping landscape shots or the intimate details of the icebergs.
Eystrahorn Mountain
Eystrahorn is a hidden gem on Iceland’s southeast coast.
Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Vestrahorn, this location is just as stunning offering unique opportunities for photographers.
The mountain's jagged, sharp peaks which rise from the flat landscape give it a mysterious, almost otherworldly feel—especially with the right light.
Fáuskasandur Black Sand Beach
Fáuskasandur is one of those hidden Icelandic gems that doesn't get as much attention as the more famous spots.
Located in the southeast region, Fáuskasandur is a beautiful coastal area with black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs & rugged shorelines, often with dramatic weather & light conditions that create perfect photographic opportunities.
Reykjanes Peninsula
The Reykjanes Peninsula is one of Iceland's most diverse & rugged landscapes, making it a perfect location for photographers looking for dramatic coastlines, geothermal wonders, volcanic landscapes & unique geological formations.
Unlike the more tourist-heavy areas, the Reykjanes Peninsula offers a quieter, more raw beauty that is often overlooked, but it’s full of incredible photo opportunities.
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant colours of the geothermal areas, the imposing cliffs along the coast, or the tranquil lakes & lighthouses, you’ll find countless opportunities to capture the rugged charm of this often-overlooked region.
Photographing the south & southeast regions of Iceland is an unforgettable experience that offers a wealth of opportunities for capturing stunning imagery.
With its diverse landscapes, unique geological features & ever-changing weather, these regions are a dream destination for photographers of all skill levels.
Iceland provides many opportunities to capture its breathtaking beauty whilst creating life long memories & experiences through your photography!
Experience Iceland - Book a Photography Workshop!
If you’re looking for expert guidance on capturing Iceland’s beauty, we offer photography workshops throughout the year capturing locations in both the North & South of this amazing island.
We will take you to Iceland’s most stunning locations helping you to find the best spots, whilst providing tuition & advice on shooting Iceland’s unique conditions in a friendly & relaxed environment.
Our Icelandic photography adventures offer an unforgettable experience allowing you to capture the essence of this unique location.
What are you waiting for – contact us to discuss your requirements or book a workshop, pack your bags, grab your camera equipment & get ready to explore one of the most photogenic locations on Earth!
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