Iceland is a special place to me. Not a destination that simply stays in my memory, but one that keeps calling me back.

I love Iceland’s raw landscape: lava fields, waterfalls, and hot springs. When steam rises from the ground, it feels as if the land itself is breathing. Iceland is not polished or easy, and that is exactly why it feels so honest.

The First Spark – Iceland in the 1990s

My fascination with Iceland began in the 1990s, when I traveled there for the first time. The journey itself was already an adventure. I drove my father’s car through Sweden to Bergen, Norway. From there, I took a car ferry to Iceland, arriving in Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland.

We traveled around the island for a couple of weeks, sleeping in a tent and moving at our own pace. During those two weeks I realized how special Iceland is. The landscapes changed dramatically within short distances. The weather had a life of its own, and nature was never just a backdrop, it was always present. After that journey, it was clear that I would have to return.

Iceland Changes – and Photography with It

My most recent trip to Iceland was in 2018, when I traveled there with Mr H. By then, Iceland had already changed. We stayed in Reykjavík and made day trips from there to various locations in South Iceland.

Tourism had increased significantly, and many natural sites were under heavy pressure. To protect these fragile environments, access has been restricted and fenced in many places – a necessary and understandable solution.

From a photographer’s point of view this also brings challenges. Some viewpoints are no longer accessible, and fences or railings sometimes become part of the image. Iceland is still incredibly beautiful. But photographing it today requires more consideration, as not everything can be approached the way it once was possible.

Vík í Mýrdal and the Black Sand Beach

One of our day trips was Vík í Mýrdal or just Vik. Vik is famous for the black sand beach, Reynisfjara and the basalt sea stacks. The basalt sea stacks of Reynisdrangar rise from the ocean like mythical figures. The landscape is both beautiful and unforgiving.

Stormy Weather

Of all the elements, water and wind have always spoken to me the most. I love storms. That is why the black sand beach on a windy day fascinated me in a very personal way.

I felt a surge of excitement every time the waves crashed against the rocks. The combination of powerful water and relentless wind was mesmerizing. I found myself not wanting to leave the beach at all. Experiencing the raw force of the ocean and the wind was simply too compelling.

This image is particularly dear to me. I even had it made into wallpaper for my bedroom. Namely it captures exactly how Iceland makes me feel: calm, humility, and a deep sense of scale.

The Black Beach and a Merciless Ocean

The day we visited Vík was exceptionally windy. The wind pulled at our clothes and sand filled the air. That restless weather made the beach even more powerful.

We were warned about the ocean and for good reason. Reynisfjara is known for its so-called sneaker waves, which can suddenly surge far up the beach. Tragically, the sea has claimed lives here, and safety warnings are taken seriously.

Sometimes access to the beach is closed entirely due to conditions. This time, we were fortunate enough to visit. We just had to stay well away from the water. We also needed to remain constantly alert.

The Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

The Reynisdrangar sea stacks have been shaped over thousands of years. They are formed from volcanic basalt. The basalt was created when lava flows cooled and solidified. Later, the relentless force of the ocean carved them.

Wind, waves, and time have gradually eroded the softer rock around them, leaving these dramatic pillars rising from the sea. Standing on the black sand beach, you can easily sense how powerful these natural forces are.

Human and Nature – The Inner Tide

As a photographer, Iceland has taught me humility. Not everything can be controlled, and nature cannot be forced. Wind, light, and waves set the rhythm.

When I created my first double exposure art photograph, I wanted to weave the power of Iceland into my work. My model is a former swimmer, and to me, water is her element – as it is also mine. This is how The Inner Tide came to be.

Iceland Stays Under the Skin

Iceland has changed, but its essence remains the same. Raw beauty, unpredictable nature, and the feeling that you are just a small part of something much larger.

Vík and the black sand beach perfectly exemplify this. A place that is inviting and warning at the same time. Even though several years have passed since my last visit, these landscapes return to my mind again and again.

And I know that one day I will return with my camera. Ready to face the wind, the sea, and the black sand once more.

Practical Tips for Visiting and Photographing Iceland

Based on my own experiences, a few practical thoughts may be helpful. These tips are especially useful if you are planning a trip to Iceland with a camera in mind.

• Respect the power of nature.
  Weather can change quickly, especially along the coast. Strong winds, sudden waves, and rapidly shifting light are part of the experience. Keep a safe distance from the ocean and never turn your back on the sea at places like Reynisfjara.
• Dress for wind, not just rain.
  Wind is often the most challenging element in Iceland. A good windproof jacket is essential. Wearing layers and sturdy footwear is important for comfort. They help you stay focused on photography.
• Slow down and observe.
  Some of the strongest images come from staying in one place and watching how light, clouds, and waves evolve. Iceland rewards patience more than rushing from one location to another.
• Accept limitations.
  Fences and restricted areas exist for a reason. Rather than fighting them, use them as a creative challenge – sometimes stepping back leads to a stronger composition.
• Let the experience guide your photography.
  Iceland is not about controlling the scene, but responding to it. Wind, water, and light set the rhythm. When you work with them instead of against them, the images tend to feel more honest.

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Last, but not least

What have natural forces taught you?
Have you traveled to Iceland? If so, would you like to share one of the most memorable or powerful experiences from your journey?

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