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Photo Tours in Iceland: What to Know

Iceland is a dream destination for photographers, offering breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and iconic landmarks. From cascading waterfalls and volcanic black sand beaches to the auroras and midnight sun, Iceland’s diverse scenery is a canvas waiting to be captured.

Photo tours in Iceland allow photographers of all levels to explore the country’s beauty while refining their skills under expert guidance. Whether you’re capturing the northern lights or the serene Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, a photo tour ensures you return home with stunning shots and unforgettable memories.

Why Join Photo Tours and Workshops in Iceland?

Photo tours in Iceland cater to all skill levels, offering expert guidance to help you refine your skills and expand your portfolio. Whether you’re a beginner looking to master new techniques or an experienced photographer seeking the best locations, these workshops in Iceland provide valuable hands-on instruction.

Look forward to photographing lush green valleys, black-sand beaches, glacial rivers, and puffin-filled cliffs in summer or ice caves, northern lights, and volcanic landscapes in winter. With logistics like transportation, meals, and accommodations taken care of, you can focus entirely on getting the perfect shot.

Winter Photo Tours in Iceland

Join one of the best photo tours in Iceland and capture the country’s most stunning winter landscapes under expert guidance. Learn techniques for photographing northern lights, ice caves, and frozen waterfalls under the guidance of award-winning photographers.

Top 3 Best Winter Photo Tours in Iceland

  1. 1-Week Northern Lights Winter Photography Workshop in Iceland with Ice Caves & Waterfalls: Spend a week photographing Iceland’s winter highlights, including ice caves, waterfalls, and northern lights. This tour offers expert-led workshops and shooting opportunities at Iceland’s most scenic locations.

  2. 4-Day Northern Lights Winter Photography Tour of Iceland with Ice Caving & Waterfalls: Perfect for those with limited time, this 4-day winter photography tour in Iceland takes you to top locations, including the Vatnajokull ice caves, Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and prime northern lights viewing spots.

  3. 11-Day Photography Tour Around Iceland's Ring Road in Winter: This 11-day tour follows the full Ring Road, covering Iceland’s most diverse winter landscapes. From frozen waterfalls to steaming geothermal areas, you’ll photograph it all while learning expert techniques to enhance your portfolio.

Summer Photo Tours in Iceland

Experience Iceland’s vibrant summer landscapes on a guided photo tour in Iceland, where endless daylight and dramatic scenery create the perfect conditions for stunning photography. Capture the golden glow of the midnight sun, powerful waterfalls, volcanic craters, and remote highland vistas while learning from award-winning photographers.

Top 3 Best Summer Photo Tours in Iceland

  1. 3-Day Photography Workshop in Iceland’s Vatnajokull National Park with Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: This 3-day photo tour in Iceland takes you to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, Vatnajokull National Park, and the South Coast’s waterfalls, providing incredible opportunities to capture Iceland’s summer beauty.

  2. One-Week Summer Photography Workshop in Iceland with the Diamond Beach & Golden Circle: Spend 8 days on an Iceland photography tour, capturing Diamond Beach, the Golden Circle, and volcanic landscapes under the midnight sun. This tour offers expert guidance and trips to Iceland’s best summer locations.

  3. Midnight Sun Photography Workshop Through the Complete Circle of Iceland: This Iceland photo workshop follows the full Ring Road, offering a chance to photograph volcanic craters, glacial lagoons, black-sand beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs bathed in the golden glow of the midnight sun.

Tips for Your Photo Tour in Iceland

  • Pack the right gear: Bring a sturdy tripod for long exposures, especially for northern lights and waterfalls. Carry a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife shots.

  • Weather-proof your equipment: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable; pack weather-resistant gear and lens cleaning supplies to protect against rain and snow.

  • Master low-light photography: If photographing the northern lights, learn about ISO settings, shutter speed, and aperture adjustments for optimal shots.

  • Plan for light: The golden hour during summer and the ethereal twilight in winter offer the best lighting conditions for photography.

Top Iceland Tours with Photography Included

These Iceland tours with photography included are perfect for travelers who want to experience the country's breathtaking landscapes without having to take the photos themselves. On these tours, your guide also acts as a photographer, capturing stunning images of you and the incredible scenery throughout the journey.

  1. 12-Hour South Coast Tour & Glacier Hike with Photo Package from Reykjavik: Explore Iceland’s stunning South Coast with a guide who doubles as a photographer, capturing professional images of you at waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and on a glacier hike.

  2. 10-Hour Photography Tour with Sightseeing in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Enjoy a private photo session with a professional photographer, in addition to a sightseeing tour across the Snaefellsnes peninsula, stopping at Budakirkja church, Arnarstapi village, and stunning coastal cliffs.

  3. Small-Group 4-Hour Northern Lights Tour with Aurora Expert & Photographer from Reykjavik: Experience the northern lights with an aurora expert and professional photographer who ensures you get incredible photos of the auroras and yourself beneath Iceland’s Arctic sky.

  4. Private 3-Hour Silfra Diving Tour with Photos and Optional Reykjavik Transfers: Dive into the Silfra fissure, one of the world’s clearest waters, while the guide captures stunning underwater images of you swimming between two continents.

  5. Small-Group 5-Hour Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking in Vatnajokull National Park with Optional Photos: Hike across Vatnajokull glacier and explore an ice cave. At the same time, your guide acts as a photographer and takes unforgettable photos of your glacial adventure.

Conclusion

A photo tour in Iceland is the perfect way to capture the country’s breathtaking landscapes while enhancing your photography skills or letting an expert handle the shots for you. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights in winter, capturing the midnight sun in summer, or simply looking for professional-quality photos of your adventure, Iceland offers endless opportunities for unforgettable imagery.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best photo tours in Iceland?

One of the best photo tours from Iceland is this epic 10-day Greenland sailing trip and photography workshop with transfers from Reykjavik. It's available during summer and costs about 9,100 USD.
Another excellent photography tour is this small group northern lights tour with an expert photographer. It includes Reykjavik transfers and costs around 250 USD.
Nature enthusiasts should check out this private full-day Snaefellsnes peninsula photography tour with a local expert. It costs approximately 889 USD and departs from Reykjavik.

Is it worth it to take photo tours in Iceland?

It is absolutely worthwhile to book photo tours in Iceland. For photographers seeking to gain new skills and build a strong portfolio, your photo guides will provide you with invaluable information. For everyone else, photo tours are an excellent opportunity to capture Iceland's incredible landscapes, unique wildlife, and fascinating culture.
If you want to build a career as a photographer, take memories of your holiday home with you, or liven up your social media, a photo tour is for you.

What's the cheapest photo tour in Iceland?

Iceland's cheapest guided photography tour is this private 2.5-hour paddle sunset tour. A knowledgeable photography expert will capture excellent shots of you while on this amazing activity for around 87 USD per person.
The second-cheapest photography tour in Iceland is a small-group three-hour ice-caving tour at Vatnajokull glacier, including a photo package. It departs from the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon car park and costs about 167 USD.
The third cheapest photography tour in Iceland is this small group four-hour northern lights tour with a photographer. It includes transfers from Reykjavik and costs approximately 250 USD.

When is the best time to come to Iceland for a photo tour?

It depends on what sort of photos you are looking to shoot. In summer, the bright nights provide a long golden hour, often called the midnight sun.
The short, dim days in winter create a unique and eerie atmosphere. Although you will have fewer hours to shoot under the sun, photo workshops in winter will allow you to capture the northern lights.

What will the weather be like during my photo tour in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is notoriously changeable. In summer, average temperatures range between 46 to 55 F (8-13 C). However, temperatures can reach 68 to 77 F (20-25 C).
Winters in Iceland are not as cold as some might think, and the temperature indoors is always comfortable as heating runs off inexpensive geothermal energy. Temperatures across the island vary, but you can expect averages of around 28 to 35 F (-2 to 2 C).

Will the guides help me to photograph the northern lights in Iceland?

Your photography guides are experts in hunting and photographing the northern lights. They will inform you what camera settings are best to take fantastic snapshots of the natural phenomenon. The aurora can be seen in Iceland from late August to the beginning of April when the sky is clear.

What kind of lenses and equipment will I need for photography in Iceland ?

For landscape photography, you will need a wide-angle lens. For wildlife photography, a telescopic lens will be very useful. You will need a tripod and a DSLR camera to photograph the northern lights.
Amateur photographers will find smartphone photos sufficient. However, most smartphones don’t pick up the northern lights. For northern lights photography, a DSLR camera is ideal. Once you book a photo tour in Iceland, you will be sent a complete list of equipment that you need.

What other essentials should I pack for my photo tour in Iceland?

Knowing what to pack for travel in Iceland is hard when it is your first time visiting the country. Warm and waterproof clothing is always recommended since you will spend a great deal of time outside, and the weather in Iceland is highly changeable. It is recommended that you bring clothes which you can layer. Breathable fabric is ideal. We suggest that you avoid heavy cotton clothing that can trap sweat, making you uncomfortable as your day progresses. In all seasons, hats, gloves, and scarves are recommended, as well as sunglasses.

Are the Iceland photo workshops led by experts?

All of the Iceland photo tours are led by a team made up of experienced local and international photography guides. They will be available every step of the way to guide you as you hone your skills.
Many are award-winning photographers and some of Iceland's best photo tour guides. As well as being highly qualified, all the guides speak excellent English and boast an intimate knowledge of Iceland.

Is wildlife photography possible in Iceland?

Yes, Iceland is teeming with wildlife. Wild animals in Iceland include whales and puffins, seals, horses, foxes, reindeer, and sometimes even dolphins. Puffins nest in Iceland between April and the end of August. It is possible to photograph them on a midnight sun photo tour.

Do I need to be a good photographer to join an Iceland photo tour?

No, Guide to Iceland offers tours that are open to amateurs as well as experts. Groups are often mixed with people of varying skill sets. Our expert photo guides will always be available to provide you with as much guidance as you need.

Can I hire a private photographer for my trip?

Yes, you can. Contact us through info@guidetoiceland.is for more information.

How can I photograph an erupting volcano in Iceland?

When a volcano erupts, helicopter and plane tours will give you the best aerial views.

Are there specific photo tours for capturing Iceland's waterfalls and landscapes?

Yes, there are photo tours in Iceland specifically designed to capture the country's stunning waterfalls and landscapes. These tours often visit iconic locations like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Snaefellsnes Peninsula, focusing on getting the best photographic perspectives of these natural wonders.
For example, this epic 14-day photography workshop travels the entire Ring Road in autumn. It's perfect for professional and beginner photographers and costs about 6,463 USD.

What are the group sizes like on photography tours in Iceland?

Group sizes for photography tours in Iceland can vary. Some excursions offer a more intimate experience with small groups, allowing personalized instruction and guidance, while others may accommodate larger groups. It's best to check with the tour operator for specific group size details.

How physically demanding are photo tours in Iceland?

The physical demand for photo tours in Iceland varies depending on the trip. Some may involve easy walks to accessible sites, while others might include hiking or trekking to more remote locations. It's essential to assess your fitness level and choose a tour that matches your comfort level.
For example, this full-day photoshoot tour from Reykjavik requires a decent fitness level. A professional photographer and expert guide will take you on a glacier hiking adventure and capture incredible shots of you in action on the glacier and visiting top South Coast attractions.

Can photo tours be customized to focus on specific interests or locations?

Many photo tour operators in Iceland offer customizable tours tailored to focus on specific interests, themes, or locations. This option is perfect for photographers who have particular subjects or areas they wish to concentrate on.
Private tours are excellent options for those seeking the ultimate customization. Book a private photography tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, South Coast, or the Icelandic Highlands tailored to your preferences.

Are there photo tours available during Iceland's winter months?

Photo tours are available in Iceland year-round, including during the winter months. Winter tours provide unique opportunities to photograph snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the northern lights.
Check out this excellent eight-day northern lights winter photography workshop and an unbeatable 11-day all-around Iceland winter photography tour.

What tips do photo tour guides provide for capturing the best shots in Iceland's unique lighting conditions?

Photo tour guides in Iceland offer valuable tips on dealing with the country's unique lighting conditions, such as capturing the soft light of the golden hour, dealing with midday light, or photographing the northern lights. They also advise on camera settings and techniques suitable for Iceland's varied landscapes.

What safety precautions are taken during photo tours in harsh or remote Icelandic environments?

Safety is a top priority on photo tours in Iceland, especially in harsh or remote environments. Excursions are led by experienced guides familiar with the terrain and weather conditions. Participants are briefed on safety protocols, and tours are equipped with necessary safety gear and communication devices.

Are photo tours in Iceland suitable for families or beginners?

Yes, many photo tours are beginner-friendly and family-oriented. Some tours, like city photo walks or northern lights excursions, are accessible for all ages and skill levels, while others, such as glacier or volcano photography tours, may require a higher fitness level.

What tips do guides provide for photographing in low-light conditions, like the northern lights?

Guides teach techniques for low-light photography, including using a tripod, setting long exposure times, adjusting ISO settings, and manual focusing to capture auroras and other dimly lit scenes effectively.

How can I practice eco-friendly photography in Iceland?

Stick to marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and refrain from damaging fragile ecosystems. Responsible photography ensures the preservation of Iceland’s natural beauty for future generations.

How do I protect my camera gear from Iceland’s unpredictable weather?

Waterproof camera bags, rain covers for lenses, and silica gel packs can help protect your equipment from moisture and sudden weather changes. Guides often provide tips on managing gear in wet or cold conditions.

Can I bring and use a drone on photo tours in Iceland?

Drones are permitted in many areas but are subject to strict regulations. Certain locations, like national parks, may restrict drone use. Always confirm with your tour operator and familiarize yourself with Iceland’s drone laws before flying.

What are the transportation options for photo tours in Iceland?

Most tours include transportation in comfortable vehicles, often with hotel pick-up and drop-off. For remote locations, such as the Highlands or volcanoes, super jeeps or helicopters may be used.

Are there photo tours focused on Iceland’s unique geological features?

Yes, some tours specialize in capturing geysers, volcanoes, and lava fields, such as guided trips to Landmannalaugar or Fagradalsfjall. These tours highlight Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and geological wonders.

Can I sell the photos I take during the tour?

Generally, you own the rights to photos you capture. However, always clarify with your tour operator and check for restrictions regarding commercial use in protected areas.

What safety measures are taken during tours in extreme environments?

Guides are trained in first aid and terrain navigation. Participants are briefed on safety protocols, provided with necessary gear, and tours are canceled or rescheduled in dangerous weather conditions.

Do tours include tips on photo editing and post-processing?

Many workshops offer post-processing sessions, helping participants enhance their photos using software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop.
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