25 Stunning Iceland Photography Locations: A Pro Photographer's Guide
Iceland Photography
Discover my top Iceland photography locations from one of the world's most spectacular destinations—a land of glaciers, volcanoes, and endless waterfalls. As a professional landscape photographer with months spent exploring Iceland, I've captured its raw beauty firsthand.
Having visited multiple times, I can confirm Iceland's unparalleled appeal for photographers. From venturing into blue ice caves and flying over erupting volcanoes to chasing the Northern Lights through the night, few places offer such diversity.
Iceland's magic continually draws me back.
This small nation packs immense natural wonders into vast landscapes, dotted with historic farmhouses and fishing villages—plus intriguing folklore elements.
It's a true paradise for travel photographers.
Explore these curated spots below, with images to inspire your own Icelandic adventure.
Iceland’s Top Photography Locations
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Reykjavík, home to most of Iceland's population, boasts a vibrant arts and music scene. Dominating the skyline is the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, inspired by the nation's rugged terrain and the tallest structure in the country.
A must-visit for photographers, ascend the elevator to the top for panoramic city views.
Kerlingarfjöll Geothermal Area
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
This renowned geothermal spa in southwest Iceland draws millions with its silica-rich, milky-blue waters. I photographed here during a relaxing soak with fellow traveler Kiersten from The Blonde Abroad—the minerals benefit skin health.
Visit early morning or late evening to minimize crowds and capture serene shots.
The Ring Road
Route 1, Iceland's 800+ mile Ring Road, circles the island. While drivable in 24 hours, allocate at least a week for photography stops. I dedicated seven days to it, yielding many of this guide's images.
Infinite pull-over opportunities await along this epic route.
Thorsmork “Thor’s Valley”
Eldraun Lava Field
Ancient lava fields blanketed in centuries-old moss create surreal, emerald landscapes between Vík and Höfn. Folklore whispers of trolls and elves beneath—fitting for this Dr. Seuss-like terrain.
Photographers love it, but never step on the moss—it takes centuries to regrow and doesn't recover from damage.
READ MORE: Inspiring Travel Quotes With Photos
Glacier Ice Caves
Vatnajökull's meltwater carves ethereal blue caves, illuminated by sunlight filtering through ice. Essential for Iceland photographers, but winter-only and guide-required due to seasonal shifts and hazards.
Holuhraun Volcano
Since its 2014 eruption in the Northern Highlands, Holuhraun has flowed rivers of lava. Ground access is restricted for safety (floods, gases), but aerial views via small plane offer stunning, affordable perspectives.
Strokkur Geyser
Strokkur, erupting every 5-10 minutes near the Hvítá River, highlights the Golden Circle route from Reykjavík. Iceland's weather shifts rapidly—we experienced sun, rain, and snow in one day.
The word "geyser" derives from Icelandic geothermal features like this.
Sólheimasandur Plane Crash
Skógafoss Waterfall
Iceland's waterfalls thrive under midnight sun warmth (up to 25°C/77°F). Skógafoss, one of the largest, displays rainbows in sunlight—fueled by glacier melt.
Legends of Viking treasure persist, and it starred in Thor: The Dark World.
Tiny Iceland Elf Houses?
Icelanders revere huldufólk (hidden folk or elves); polls show over half believe, influencing construction. Treat their "homes" with respect—it's cultural norm.
Fuzzy Icelandic Horses
These compact, resilient horses, introduced in the 9th century, endure harsh winters with thick coats. Never call them ponies locally—they're a proud breed, friendly on farms nationwide.
Backcountry Mountain Huts
Colorful emergency huts from early 20th-century rescue groups dot the highlands, stocked with essentials. Vital in blizzards—always secure doors/windows for future hikers.
Vatnajökull Glacier
Glaciers cover nearly one-sixth of Iceland, especially south and highlands. Vatnajökull's outlet like Svínafellsjökull glows vivid blue under clouds.
Remote Eastern Iceland
"Remote" means business here: jagged mountains, sparse fishing villages, ideal for escaping 1.7 million annual tourists. Hikers' haven on the east coast.
Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon
Melt from Breiðamerkurjökull feeds this south coast lagoon with blue icebergs, some washing ashore or to sea. Prime photography territory.
Cool Icelandic Art Murals
Creativity permeates Iceland—locals often multitask as artists. Murals depict 13th-14th century sagas across the landscape.
Silfra Tectonic Fissure
Where North American and Eurasian plates diverge, Silfra fills with ultra-clear glacial water (filtered 50+ years through lava rock). Dive or snorkel at 2°C for unique shots.
Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
Northern Lights photography peaked my Iceland trips—best in dark fall/winter. Captured dancing over Sólheimasandur's plane wreck and Thorsmork valley.
Where to Stay in Iceland
Base in Reykjavík initially, then explore. Here are vetted recommendations:
WHERE TO STAY IN REYKJAVIK
Luxury
Kvosin Downtown Hotel
Midrange
Rey Apartments
Budget
Loft Hostel
WHERE TO STAY ON THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
Luxury
Frost & Fire Hotel
Midrange
Hótel Eldhestar
Budget
Selfoss Hostel
WHERE TO STAY ON SOUTH COAST
Luxury
Hótel Kría
Midrange
The Barn
Budget
Puffin Hostel
