HIGHLANDS OF ICELAND 2025
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
8 DAY LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
5 JULY - 12 JULY 2025
Dramatic and wild, the Icelandic Highlands with its over 15,000 square miles of untamed, unspoiled wilderness, is home to an otherworldly landscape that must be seen to be believed. It’s cut by endless wind and marked by vast expanses of ice and desert. This is the island's most distinctive and unforgiving landscape, complete with lava fields and volcanoes.
When it comes to photography, the Icelandic Highlands offers a wealth of opportunities for photographers making the Highlands a photographer's dream location.
This photography workshop is tailored to a small group of people interested in capturing the beauty of some of the country's most stunning landscapes. Using our converted 4x4 Mercedes Sprinter Van, we can access some of the most incredible and remote areas in the Highland while staying at two warm and comfortable accommodation bases.
Whether you are an amateur, a semi-pro photographer or a beginner looking to improve your skills, this workshop will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to capture the beauty and majesty of the Icelandic Highland.
DATES
July 5 - July 12, 2025
INVESTMENT
€ 7350
GROUP SIZE
7
HIGHLANDS OF ICELAND 2025 - LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Only 7 spots available - Join us and improve your photography and storytelling
INVESTMENT
€7350 single occupancy room
GROUP SIZE
7 people
EXPERIENCE
Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY
Moderate
In a few locations, there will be opportunities for walks and hill climbs that should be manageable for anyone with good fitness. (See the 'A Word About Hiking & Fitness' section below for more details.) These activities are entirely optional, and there will be alternatives available for those who prefer not to hike.
+ THE WORKSHOP INCLUDES
Landscape photography and shooting in unforgettable wild and remote locations
Professional photographer and experienced tour leader with extensive knowledge of landscape photography and over ten years of experience photographing Iceland
Personalized guidance and safe driving from our experienced Icelandic local guide and driver
All teaching sessions about gear, technique, composition, and visual storytelling
Photo editing session in Lightroom / Capture One / Photoshop, with screen recording which the participants can keep
Photo review session
All accommodations from the night of July 5th to July 11th
Single occupancy in a private room with en-suite bathroom
All the breakfasts
Local transportation to and from the locations in a converted 4x4 Mercedes Sprinter Van with a lot of room
- NOT INCLUDED
Travel costs to and from Iceland
Food and beverage
Travel insurance and equipment insurance (highly recommended)
Tips, extras, and anything else not mentioned in “The Workshop Includes” section
ITINERARY
Our workshop begins and ends in Reykjavik, and we base ourselves in two places during our Highland tour. The dates that we'll be at each base are fixed, however, our time there is flexible so we can decide which locations to visit based on the local weather and conditions. In every area, we will, however, make sure that we visit all the locations.
Even with overcast skies, many landscapes in Iceland, including waterfalls and volcanic lakes, work well and can be shot at any time of day. In July we can experience some of the longest Golden Hours on the planet, where the sunset blends seamlessly into the sunrise over the course of many hours. A pretty special opportunity for photographers. Because of that, as we often shoot at locations more than a few miles from our accommodations and with golden hour lasting for several hours, we won't have traditional sunrise and sunset sessions, but will always schedule the sessions for the best light at each location.
DAY 1 // THE CENTRAL HIGHLAND
CENTRAL HIGHLAND | 1 NIGHT
All participants should arrive in Reykjavík one day before the tour begins, or earlier if preferred. It's also a great opportunity to explore the city center and capture some images of the capital. We'll provide the name of the hotel in the welcome document so you can easily book your stay for that night.
We’ll meet with the group in Reykjavík on July 5th at 10:00 a.m. at the meeting point specified in the welcome document you received upon registering for the workshop, and then make our way to the Highlands.
We’ll head to Kerlingarfjöll, a stunning mountain range with a vast geothermal area. The colorful rhyolite hills, often veiled in swirling mist and steam, create a surreal backdrop for your shots. As you navigate the valleys, you’ll find the landscape constantly shifting in hues with the changing light and passing clouds, offering endless opportunities for capturing dynamic and atmospheric images.
Unlike other tours, we wanted to make this workshop very special, so we decided to set our first base at the luxury Highland Base, a wonderful hotel that has recently been completely renovated. Conveniently located in the heart of this remote and fantastic area, it’s just ten minutes drive from our shooting location which gives us more time to focus on photographing the area and much less time driving.
As a bonus, the hotel offers complimentary free access to their beautiful geothermal baths. After a day of shooting, you can relax in the peaceful ambiance of the highlands, enjoying the natural, chemical-free warmth of the geothermal water, which we highly recommend!
DAY 2 - 4 // THE SOUTHERN CENTRAL HIGHLAND
SOUTHERN CENTRAL HIGHLAND | 3 NIGHTS
After breakfast, we’ll check out and head to our second base in the heart of the Southern Central Highland. Hrauneyjar is the perfect base camp for exploring the rugged and breathtaking landscape that makes this region so epic.
Over the course of our workshop's second phase, we'll explore some of the most iconic photographic locations in the Icelandic Highlands.
One of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, Háifoss
Rauðaskál, a stunning crater covered with red volcanic soil
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon with its wall of waterfalls
The lava fields in the Landmannalaugar area
The colorful mountains Bláhnjúkur and Brennisteinsalda
Ljótipollur and Hnausapollur crater lakes
Braided rivers
Iceland has many beautiful places to take photos, but this part of the country is one of the most amazing.
We’ll spend three nights here, which will give us plenty of time to explore and photograph this amazing area. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a completely different world.
Landmannalaugar is situated within a massive caldera in the Fjallabak National Reserve on the southwest edge of Iceland’s highlands. It is the most varied of the highlands landscapes with colorful rhyolite mountains, glacial rivers, lava fields, and a geothermal pool surrounded by beautiful wildflowers.
Two of the most popular mountains in Landmannalaugar are Bláhnjúkur and Brennisteinsalda. Bláhnjúkur, also known as the "Blue Peak," is a striking mountain that gets its name from its blue-green color. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, and the unique colors provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Brennisteinsalda, also known as the "Sulphur Wave," is another popular mountain in the Landmannalaugar region. The mountain is known for its unique geological formations and vibrant colors ranging from yellow to orange and red. Similarly, Brennisteinsalda offers truly breathtaking views and provides unique opportunities for taking multiple images to stitch together and create beautiful panorama images, or experiment with close-up and very abstract shots with the telephoto lens.
Other highlights of this area are the stunning volcanic lakes of Ljótipollur, also known as “Ugly Puddle”, which is anything but ugly, and Hnausapollur, a strikingly beautiful crater with its vibrant blue-green color water. From that spot, we’ll have enough elevation to capture panorama shots facing south and southwest and amazing aerial compositions of the crater lakes.
Sigöldugljúfur Canyon is another hidden gem located in the southern central highlands of Iceland. A deep and narrow canyon that stretches for approximately 1.5 kilometers surrounded by rugged and dramatic landscapes. Multiple waterfalls tumble over the moss-covered, sheer-sided gorge with a turquoise river running along its base. It’s a stunning scene straight out of a fairy tale.
During our visit, we'll have the opportunity to capture the waterfalls from various vantage points. From wide-angle shots that showcase the entire canyon and multiple waterfalls at once to more intimate compositions with the telephoto lens that focus on individual cascades framed by moss-covered cliffs. It’s definitely a wonderful place to experiment with angles and perspectives to create visually amazing images.
The Icelandic Highlands is home to some of the most dramatic waterfalls you'll ever set your eyes on. We will spend a day exploring Háifoss, a magnificent and awe-inspiring waterfall that is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, standing at an impressive height of 122 meters.
Once there, we'll have several fantastic photographic opportunities. The classic vantage point from above offers a sweeping view of Háifoss and its neighbouring waterfall, Granni.
We’ll explore various perspectives, from capturing the waterfalls framed by the cliffs to using the foreground rocks and vibrant mosses for added depth. We can experiment with long exposures to soften the water’s movement and create a misty, ethereal effect, and if the conditions are right, even catch a rainbow dancing in the mist.
Then we’ll hike down to the base of Háifoss. This descent gives us a completely different perspective, allowing us to shoot upwards at the waterfall to capture its full height and the dramatic cliffs surrounding it.
Down here, the power of the falls becomes even more palpable, and you can experiment with framing the waterfall between the rocks and capturing the spray up close for a more intimate shot. It's an excellent opportunity for creative compositions, whether focusing on the textures and patterns created by the cascading water or shooting wider to include the river winding away from the falls.
DAY 5 - 6 // THE SOUTHERN HIGHLAND
SOUTHERN HIGHLAND | 2 NIGHTS
After an amazing three days exploring the southern central part of the Highlands, we head to the southern section where we base ourselves in a lovely place on the South coast for the next two nights.
It is from here we can explore places such as:
The remote uninhabited black sand desert of Mælifellssandur
Bláfjallafoss and Axlafoss waterfalls
The remote Langisjór lake and its beautiful panoramas
The multi-tiered Ófærufoss waterfall
Rauðibotn, a spectacular red and green emerald crater
Laki with its striking volcanic craters and alien-like vistas
This whole area is a photographer’s paradise and very different from the landscapes we photographed in the northern area.
While driving to our second base, we'll visit Langisjór, a 20 km long and 2 km wide glacial lake surrounded by rugged mountains, vast glaciers, and untouched terrain. In addition to the lake itself, there are numerous other photo opportunities in the area surrounding Langisjór. The nearby Rauðibotn crater is a striking geological formation, with its vibrant colors and jagged contours offering a dramatic contrast to the surrounding wilderness.
While access here is more challenging with some big river crossings, our Mercedes Sprinter will be able to get us wherever we need to go.
The Mælifellssandur region is a completely uninhabited desert that lies between the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the Torfajökull. There is almost no vegetation, only black ash and the meanders of the numerous rivers that crisscross the region.
Here we'll hike a bit, ascending a few hills to see the vast landscape below us from an elevated perspective. This will enable us to capture the astounding view of the Mælifell volcano and surrounding mountains.
The Mælifell volcano is one of the most photogenic in Iceland, and it dominates the black sand plains of Mælifellssandur, with, in the background, the majestic Myrdalsjökull and its Katla volcano.
Its pyramid-like shape and its flanks covered with green moss that contrasts with the black desert of Mælifellssandur at its feet, make it one of the most surreal landscapes in the country.
DAY 7 - 8 // REYKJAVÍK
REYKJAVÍK | 1 NIGHT
The trip back to Reykjavik is quite long, so we'll have breakfast at the hotel and check out. We'll pack up our gear and board the van to drive back to Reykjavik with a stop along the way for lunch.
Depending on where we’ve been on previous days and if we’ve got time we might be able to stop at Fjaðrárgljúfur or Þakgil Canyon on our way back.
We'll arrive back in Reykjavik in the late afternoon or early evening, where we'll check into our hotel and freshen up. We'll then have a group dinner together to celebrate the end of our photography workshop.
The following morning, we’ll enjoy our last breakfast together before saying our goodbyes.
DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY
There is no better place for drone photography than the Icelandic Highlands. Iceland is a stunningly beautiful country with diverse landscapes, making it a perfect location for drone photography. Drone photography allows you to capture unique and creative perspectives from a height and angle that would be impossible to achieve with traditional photography approaches, and this is particularly true when shooting the incredible river braids hidden in the heart of the highlands.
For example, one of the highlights of our trip will be photographing Iceland's most stunning river braids in a wonderful secret location that we can’t wait to share with you. This hidden gem offers a breathtaking aerial view of intertwining rivers that weave through the black volcanic sands, creating mesmerizing patterns and shapes. The constantly shifting flow of the glacial waters creates dynamic compositions, providing endless opportunities for capturing abstract and unique images from above.
These vast areas of the untouched wilderness of the Highlands are ideal for those who are just starting out with aerial photography, so you don't have to worry about crashing into anything. That means you can focus on getting fantastic shots without worrying about accidents. Plus, it's a chill place to hone your flying skills and perfect your craft.
When you become comfortable flying these amazing flying cameras, you will shift your attention to your photographic composition adding a whole new dimension (literally!) We have many years of experience flying drones, so we'll give you all the assistance and knowledge on how to fly and create great compositions for beautiful aerial shots.
We know that drones can be a bit divisive, and while they’re not my primary choice when shooting in Iceland, they are a powerful tool for capturing the highlands from perspectives that would otherwise be impossible. With drones, we can achieve breathtaking aerial shots of the landscape, revealing the full scale and beauty of the scenery — perfect for creating unique, memorable images for your portfolio.
To ensure a smooth experience, we take care of all the necessary permits for every area we visit. We also strictly adhere to local regulations and safety guidelines, so you can have peace of mind knowing that we operate responsibly and with respect for the environment and fellow travelers.
A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE IN ICELAND
WHAT WE DO (AND WHAT WE WANT YOU TO GET FROM THIS WORKSHOP)
Over the course of the workshop, we will take you to beautiful locations and give you every chance to get great shots while improving your technique. From the beginning of your time with us, we’ll aim to identify your photographic level and what you’d like to focus on. We'll tailor the workshop to meet your exact needs and provide plenty of one-to-one tuition both in the field and post-processing sessions.
With over 10 years of experience exploring the incredible landscapes of Iceland, we have developed a strong understanding of the region’s weather patterns and light conditions. This expertise allows us to time our visits perfectly for amazing photography opportunities.
We always partner with experienced Icelandic guides who are experts at navigating the challenging terrain of the Highlands, including river crossings and rugged paths. Their knowledge of local conditions guarantees we can explore safely, even in unpredictable weather.
The workshop has been carefully planned to ensure you enjoy some of the most beautiful areas in the Highlands, from the iconic landscapes such as Landmannalaugar and Haifoss to the much less known and remote places like Langisjor and Maelifellsandur. We'll ensure you get plenty of time in the field with long sessions, so you can quickly get into a shooting rhythm where you can put new skills into practice.
Weather in Iceland can change rapidly and can be unpredictable. You can expect to experience four seasons in a single day. As the weather changes, we will constantly be monitoring it and will be very flexible and adaptable to ensure we get the best results and make the most of the available light and weather conditions.
Early July is an excellent time to visit Iceland, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) on average. The sun will set at 11:47 PM and rise at 3:16 AM. This will enable us to experience the landscape swathed in the warmth and golden glow of the midnight sun, with a spectacular show of color lasting for hours. It is an absolute paradise for landscape photographers during this time of year. Long days mean endless chances to photograph the landscape without rushing to reach a destination before it gets dark.
Finally, we want to share with you our passion for nature and landscape photography in this incredible place. Traveling in such small groups means we can quickly build a great learning environment where people feel comfortable together and at ease with asking questions and making the absolute most of the trip. We aim to make your experience here in the beautiful landscape of Iceland a memorable one and a trip from which, as well as getting some great images from amazing locations, you’ll also go home having had a true adventure with great company in a very special place.
POST PROCESSING AND PHOTO REVIEW
1-TO-1 EDITING SESSIONS AND GROUP PHOTO REVIEW
We believe that editing is an integral part of getting the absolute best out of an image but we understand that the range of participants’ skill levels and familiarity with post-processing techniques varies greatly. Because of this, we make the most of having small groups to provide 1-to-1 editing sessions in the morning that are tailored to each participant’s skill levels, and which can potentially range from the basics of editing a RAW file in programs like Lightroom to more complex techniques like using layers and luminosity masks in Photoshop.
As an extra bonus, we also do screen recordings of our editing sessions. These recordings are then shared with the group, ensuring you leave with a comprehensive record of all the post-processing techniques we've explored together. It's a resource you can revisit whenever you need, allowing you to refine your skills and make your images truly stand out.
PHOTO REVIEW
We also believe that the learning process should be as diverse as the landscapes we capture. That's why we've introduced a Photo Review in every one of our workshops. This special session, often one of the most enjoyable moments for our participants, offers the opportunity to showcase your work and receive constructive feedback from the instructors and your fellow photographers. This unique and collaborative experience fosters a sense of community and encourages creative growth. It's a chance to gain fresh perspectives and insights that you might not have discovered on your own.
Receive constructive feedback on your photographs to identify strengths and areas for improvement
Receive personalized guidance from instructors and fellow participants to refine your techniques and elevate your images
Gain knowledge and inspiration from the work of fellow photographers, learning different approaches and styles
Develop a more discerning perspective on your own and others' work, enhancing your ability to critically analyze and improve your photography
WHAT THE PARTICIPANTS SAY…
IN THE FIELD
Work with light. Understand how different types of light can affect the mood and the essence of an image. You’ll discover how to recognize a distinctive quality of light and work with it
Composition and how to frame a scene in order to balance and arrange visual elements effectively.
Lens choice. From the wide-angle vista to shooting landscape abstracts with a telephoto lens. With a different focal length, you can manipulate how the viewer perceives space and thus the relationship between objects.
Aerial photography
Planning and shooting astro and star trail images
Shooting multiple image panoramas
Controlling light in scenes with a wide dynamic range using graduated filters and/or multiple exposures
Painting with light
How to create time-lapses (optional)
PROCESSING
Using Lightroom or Capture One for RAW conversion, and how to transform your raw files straight out of the camera to finished images ready to be shared.
Using Photoshop layers to build up image adjustments
Using luminosity masks in Photoshop
Different techniques for blending multiple exposures of the same image
Using Nik Color Efex Pro, Silver Efex, and Adobe Camera RAW on Photoshop layers
Stitching multiple panoramas together
Sharpening images
Light sculpturing with advanced Dodge & Burn techniques
THE VALUE OF THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE
Improve your creativity and motivation for photography
Exploring a variety of photographic aspects that come into play in shooting landscapes and visual storytelling
Class lessons on photo editing to shape your vision
Novel ways of thinking and seeing, stimulating new ideas, new ways of doing things, meeting new people with the same interests and the same enthusiasm that you do
Create connections and friendships
Being inspired and having fun while learning
Acquire new skills
An opportunity to thoroughly understand, ask questions, and get answers
WORKSHOP VIBES
You can expect the atmosphere to be a perfect blend of excitement, camaraderie, and tranquility. There will be plenty of cheerful chats and belly laughs, balanced with quiet moments of awe as we connect deeply with the natural landscape around us.
You'll be sharing all of this with a group of people who are just as passionate about photography as you are, and who will quickly become your friends.
I've seen it happen every single time. Every workshop I've led has created bonds that last way beyond our time together. People arrive as strangers and leave as buddies. There's something magical about how a shared love for nature and photography brings us all together.
OUR WORKSHOP PARTNERS
The workshop is partnered with a long-standing travel agency that has an exemplary record in Iceland. We use one of Iceland's most reputable travel agencies for bookings, transport, and guiding which ensures that in the highly unlikely event of things going wrong (vehicle breakdowns, unlikely emergencies, and such) there is a dedicated and large team to ensure that the workshop continues on track with minimal disruption.
A WORD ABOUT HIKING & FITNESS
Some of the shooting locations we will be visiting will require some hiking from our vehicle. Hiking in Iceland is a rewarding and unforgettable experience, but it requires a moderate level of fitness.
You should also have a bearing on what camera equipment you bring with you as you’ll sometimes be carrying it for a couple of hours while we make these hikes, so heavy packs should be avoided as much as possible.
During our hikes in Landmannalaugar, for example, we'll get the best views at higher elevations. For example, the hike up Bláhnjúkur has an elevation of 400m and takes around an hour to walk up. There are similar climbs in Langisjór, so you should expect to be hiking for a couple of hours on some days and climbing relatively steep hills.
These locations are filled with stunning scenery accessible with short walks, still providing fantastic photo opportunities without the need for strenuous hikes.
If you have any doubts whatsoever about your ability to participate, please don’t hesitate to contact me using the form below.
ACCOMMODATIONS & FOOD
While summer brings milder weather, after long days of exploring the Highlands, we want to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible when we return to our accommodations. For this workshop, we’ve carefully selected accommodations that combine comfort and convenience to make your workshop experience truly special.
In Kerlingarfjöll and South Coast, we’ll stay in 4 and 3-star hotels where each participant has their own private room. These hotels are conveniently located close to where we’ll be shooting to cut down the amount of time we spend in the vehicle.
The hotel we use in the Central Highland is the only one in the area that gives us access to the Fjallabak National Park, and it’s really comfortable and clean with hearty food and a cozy atmosphere. I always look forward to staying there—it’s like a home away from home, and the hamburgers and beer are absolutely stellar!
Speaking of meals, one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets is how great the food is. Since I first visited the country 10 years ago, the quality and variety of Icelandic cuisine have improved massively, and we’ve found in previous workshops that meals are always a highlight and a memorable part of the trip. There’s nothing better than a great meal after a day spent shooting.
Every accommodation we’ll be staying at has its own restaurant, offering a wide variety of delicious food options, so you’ll always have something to look forward to. We love the food in Iceland, and we’re sure you will, too.
TRANSPORT
In this workshop, we really wanted to spend a lot of time visiting special places that are well off the beaten track and head deeper into the Highlands.
The landscapes here are quite simply breathtaking and unlike anything you can see almost anywhere in the world. There’s a feeling of genuinely being out in a wild and remote landscape, far away from civilization and we’ll see very few other people while we’re here.
Getting here however requires a specialized vehicle and certified driver, so we work with an expert local guide, and a converted 4X4 Mercedes Sprinter equipped with big, rugged tires, specially designed to handle the rough and rocky terrain of the F-roads. This comfortable and capable vehicle will allow us to access more remote areas like Kerlingarfjöll, Langisjór, and Mælifellsandur. With 10 passenger seats, it will comfortably get us to some of the most incredible landscapes in the country.
Although, as we’ll be using it for the entire trip we’ll need to pack light as there is limited storage space.
WHAT GEAR SHOULD I PLAN ON BRINGING?
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The criteria for the kind of work we’ll be doing is a camera (2 bodies would be best), that can be operated completely manually to ensure we get the best exposure with interchangeable lenses allowing us to cover a range of focal lengths. We don’t recommend using compact cameras because of their serious limitations or the 1” sensor cameras which don’t have the same tolerances for landscape photography that M4/3s and larger sensor cameras have.
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For some of the locations a wide angle lens really is essential if you want to get those epic landscapes with a foreground that feels you can almost step right into it. 16mm or 17mm on a full frame camera (10mm or 12mm on an APS-C sensor camera) is ideal.
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We’ll often find ourselves shooting distant peaks, abstracts, or close-ups for which a telephoto is ideal for working on intimate landscapes.
Lenses with these types of focal ranges allow you to tighten your compositions by extracting just a portion of the scene, thereby minimizing overall distractions.
A telephoto also compresses the landscape and is great for mountains when shooting from elevation. A range that covers 70-200mm (50-140mm on a crop sensor) is ideal.
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While these lenses are often the least useful for shooting landscapes, for the kind of locations we’ll be encountering in Iceland there will certainly be many occasions when the zooms listed above are too wide or too long and a mid-range zoom in the 24-70mm (18-55mm on a crop sensor) is perfect.
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A drone is not a necessity, but it can add a lot of value to your photo trip in Iceland. Iceland is an incredible place for aerial photography, and having a drone will allow you to capture unique perspectives and angles that are impossible from the ground. See the 'Drone Photography' section for more details.
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Iceland is one of the windiest place on earth, so the sturdier the tripod, the better – as long as it‘s not so heavy that you don‘t feel like carrying it. We’ll often be shooting in low light so a tripod is an absolutely essential piece of equipment. It should be stable enough to not only prevent camera shake but also protect your camera. I strongly discourage use cheap ultralight tripods.
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A circular polarizer should really be in every landscape photographer’s bag. When photographing lakes, rivers, glaciers, beaches, and waterfalls – all which are in abundance in Iceland, a circular polarizer is the filter to have. You’ll be able to cut through the haze which will add detail to your shot, or for darkening the sky and make the clouds pop.
ND filters are great for capturing moving clouds and long exposures.
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This is an important accessory whose benefits shouldn’t be underestimated. This allows us to trip the camera shutter without touching the camera and significantly reduces the possibility of camera shake.
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When moving your camera gear for any length of time a backpack can really save your back. A good backpack, one with sturdy hip straps, can safely distribute the weight of your gear and really save you from aches, pains, and potential injury. Bear in mind that you’ll often be putting it down in wet terrain as well so it should be water-resistant. I’d suggest also to get a rain cover for it.
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The key to enjoying a photographic adventure in iceland is staying warm and dry. Therefore, the first thing we recommend that you bring is good clothing, more precisely wind and waterproof shell (jacket and trousers). This is true for all seasons, including summer. You need to protect yourself and your equipment.
Outdoor conditions can be very trying and a cold, wet and uncomfortable photographer is unlikely to be at his or her best. We’ll certainly be walking over rocky and uneven ground, as well as some scrambles up the side of hills. We’ll also often find ourselves in muddy conditions so warm boots with good support and grip are essential.
Warm, waterproof clothing and warm socks are also essential if you want to be able to handle the landscape and weather.
In Iceland, the weather is extremely changeable and unpredictable so you should always be prepared for the unexpected.
It’s best to put on several layers: a base layer, a mid-layer, and a fleece on top. On top of that, add an insulated jacket and as a last layer, a waterproof and windproof shell that will keep the worst weather away. Insulated long johns/leggings under windproof hiking pants to keep your lower half warmer.
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It’s essential to keep your head and neck warm, so a good wooly hat below your hood really makes a difference, and a chute or neck-gaiter will protect your neck and the lower half of your face. It’s also easy for your hands to get cold so thick gloves with a pair of glove liners underneath for when you have to remove your gloves to operate your camera. If you’ve got them, mittens that open at the top so you don’t need to remove them are excellent.
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It might seem like an unusual accessory, but bringing a bug net for your head can really save you from a frustrating photography experience. While it’s not always predictable, some spots we will be visiting, can be swarming with midges that can drive you nuts. They are relentless and will follow you around. We strongly suggest packing one—it’s small and takes up hardly any space. I use THIS.
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Volcanic terrain can be tricky and trekking poles can be very useful and versatile for hiking in Iceland.
However, they are not mandatory and some hikers may prefer not to use them. The choice is ultimately up to you and your personal preference.
Some trails consist of loose gravel, rocks, and small boulders, and they can occasionally be quite steep. If you have trekking poles with you they will for sure come in handy and wear proper hiking shoes, preferably with ankle support.
If you decide to use trekking poles, make sure you choose the right size and type for your height and hiking style, and learn how to adjust and use them properly.
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Bringing a laptop to the workshop can really help you make the most of the experience. We’ll be shooting RAW, and as part of the workshop will be dedicated to post-processing images a good RAW converter like Adobe Lightroom or Camera RAW is essential. Other converters like Capture One are also excellent. Adobe Photoshop is great for more advanced processing as it allows us to be much more subtle and creative in its use of layers.
Participants usually bring their laptops or iPads with their preferred editing software installed. While it’s not mandatory, the photo editing and review sessions are something the group always really enjoys. Being able to go through your shots during the trip is a fantastic way to get feedback on your composition and editing.
So, if you’d like to learn editing from the guides or work on your photos during the workshop, it’s definitely a good idea to bring one. But if you’re just planning to take photos and save them on memory cards for later, feel free to leave it at home.
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Bring a protective pack for your camera. Bring lens-hoods and perhaps some zip-loc plastic bags or the specially designed plastic covers or rain-sleeves for the lenses.
Lens cleaning tissues, since most wiping cloths are bad at absorbing moisture; so, bring a few packs of paper tissues to wipe the rain off the lenses. Choose an unscented tissue variety as there can be chemicals in the scented ones and the chemicals can leave residue on the lens.
* If you have any questions about what to bring, don’t hesitate to contact us. A full packing list is provided on enrolling for the retreat.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Iceland is considered one of the safest countries in the world for both residents and visitors. Iceland has an extremely low crime rate, with violent crime being very rare. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is also uncommon, making it a very safe destination for tourists.
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You might be wondering how safe it is to visit Iceland during a volcanic eruption. Icelandic authorities assert that the volcanic activity in Iceland isn’t dangerous as long as you follow all safety advice.
None of the previous eruptions have posed any threat to aviation. The activity has always been very localized and has not affected any of our previous workshops.
That said, we highly recommend getting travel insurance that covers force majeure events, in case you’re unable to make it. This could be due to a volcanic eruption, medical issues, or other reasons.
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All visitors, regardless of visa requirements, must have a valid passport. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel date and obtain any necessary visas.
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If you are a citizen of an EU or Schengen Area country, you do not need a visa to enter Iceland. You can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits without a visa.
Visa-Exempt Countries: Citizens of several countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the United Kingdom, and many others, can enter Iceland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits.
To find out if you need a visa, you can check the official website of the Directorate of Immigration of Iceland or the embassy/consulate of Iceland in your country. The requirements are regularly updated, so it is best to check the latest information.
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You will fly into the Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavik, the capital city.
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To get from Keflavik Airport to your Reykjavik hotel, the best option is to book a FlyBus+ ticket (flybus.is). This service provides a convenient bus ride from the airport to a central terminal in Reykjavik. From there, you’ll transfer to a smaller bus that will take you directly to your hotel. When booking your FlyBus+ ticket, you can select your hotel from a list of options to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
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Travel insurance is not mandatory for travel to Iceland, but we highly recommend it. So, consider it for unexpected medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or lost luggage.
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Not really! Iceland is a very card-friendly country, and most places, from restaurants to gas stations, accept debit and credit cards. Even small purchases like coffee or snacks can be paid for by card. Contactless payments via apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also widely accepted.
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On our workshop, all accommodations are provided on a single-room occupancy basis to ensure your comfort and privacy throughout the trip.
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If you have any dietary requirements or special preferences—whether it’s allergies, vegetarian or vegan options, gluten-free, or anything else—please let us know in advance. While Icelandic cuisine traditionally includes a lot of meat and fish, there’s a growing focus on accommodating various dietary needs.
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In a word: Excellent!
Icelandic cuisine is a delightful blend of traditional and modern influences, characterized by its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The diet is heavily focused on seafood and lamb, reflecting the country's rich fishing grounds and pastoral heritage. Signature dishes include skyr, a creamy yogurt-like product, and plokkfiskur, a hearty fish stew made with cod or haddock.
In addition to these traditional offerings, Iceland boasts a vibrant burger scene. Icelanders love gourmet hamburgers, which can be found in most restaurants, often made with premium ingredients.
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Iceland has some of the purest water in the world, so tap water is safe and refreshing to drink. Save on bottled water and enjoy the natural goodness.
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This workshop is open to beginners, professionals, and everything in between. The only criteria are that you have a passion for photography and have the motivation to be on the go every day and night.
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Iceland has famously changeable weather, with temperatures and conditions often varying throughout the day. The average daily temperature in Reykjavik in July is 13°C, while in the Highlands the average is a little lower. Bear in mind though that winds from the surrounding glaciers can make the temperate feel cooler than that, so bring cool weather clothing. There’s an average of 10 days rain in July. Despite its rainy tendencies, though, July is one of the sunniest periods in Iceland, with comparatively little rainfall versus other times of the year. So be prepared. The best place to get forecasts and weather information for Iceland is through the Iceland Meteorological Office site http://en.vedur.is
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One of the challenging aspects of traveling to Icelandic Highland is the fact that it is a pretty big area, often times with good distances between major destinations. While we will try to limit the amount of time we see in a vehicle, we might find ourselves driving for up to 1.5hrs to get from location to location. That being said, we will provide enough brakes for everyone to stretch their legs and go the bathroom as needed.
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When visiting Iceland, tipping is not expected or mandatory. Icelanders have decent wages and their service industry generally operates on set salaries. This doesn't mean you can't show your appreciation if you've received exceptional service, but it's entirely up to you.
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Iceland uses the same plug and socket type as many European countries, which is the Type F plug. It has two round pins and is also known as the "Schuko" plug. It can sometimes be used with Type E plugs as well.
Iceland operates on a 230V supply voltage with a frequency of 50Hz.
Plug Type: The Type F plug has two round pins and is also known as the "Schuko" plug. It can sometimes be used with Type E plugs as well.
Adapters between the two are available in most supermarkets in Iceland. If you are traveling from America a specialised adapter may be required.
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All of our destinations have WIFI access, but the connections can be sometimes slow. It is also possible to purchase a SIM card at the airport, but I find they’re pretty expensive. I would recommend using Airalo (https://www.airalo.com/), it will likely be the cheapest option.
* if you have any questions or there’s anything at all you’re not sure about, don’t hesitate to contact us.
HIGHLANDS OF ICELAND 2025 - LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
FILL OUT THE REGISTRATION FORM TO JOIN!
REGISTRATION
To register for the workshop, a deposit of 30% of the total fee is required. Please complete the form below to sign up, or feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Seats are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
By booking this workshop, you agree to our Terms & Conditions. The following program is an organized and fully managed tour by Midgard Adventure ehf., which will serve as the sole point of contact for payment of the services provided.
THE TEAM
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ANDREA LIVIERI
Photographer and Workshop Leader
Andrea is a Venice-based, professional photographer, educator, musician, and spirited adventurer. He started exploring the photography medium by capturing images of fellow musicians, their families, and other friends and acquaintances in the music industry. As he continued honing his craft, he merged his love for photography and exploring the outdoors, amassing a body of photographic work featuring exhilarating landscapes and rugged mountain capes from around the globe.
He also leads photography courses, and workshops to teach other photographers his method and help them to bring out their own vision. His work has been published in Landscape Photography Magazine, Outdoor Photographer, Photo Plus Magazine, Digital Camera, Popular Photography and Fuji X Passion Magazine, among others. He also partners with brands like Capture One, NiSi Filters, BenQ, Vallerret Gloves, and Sustainable Travel International.
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SABRINA TOSATO
Photographer, Operations and Content Manager
Sabrina is a photographer and travel writer based in Padua, Italy. Her average day is a mix of weird combinations and her greatest ambition is to make people dream, inspiring them through words and photographs. She manages a travel blog named The Tomato Soup where she offers advice on travel destinations and wild but high-end hospitality.
She has 10 years of experience in travel organization, focused on exclusive and tailor-made itineraries but eventually ended up as a digital marketing specialist. Passionate about the intersection of adventure travels, sustainability, and design, with inspiration and creativity at heart, she has a knack for capturing memorable moments of everyday life. Her work has been published via Afar Media, SuitCase Magazine, Inspired by Iceland, and Feel Slovenia.
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OUR PARTNERS
We partner with FLM Tripods and Vallerret Photography Gloves & Clothing, leaders in their respective fields, and they can offer discounts on their products to attendees of our workshops.
