In late September 2024, I ran a short 4-day photography workshop on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula on Iceland’s stunning southwest coast. This workshop was designed as an optional extension for participants from our Greenland East Coast Scoresby Sund Expedition (Read the Trip Report). It offered a more relaxed, leisurely pace, providing time to immerse ourselves in the unique geological beauty of the basalt coastline.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is often referred to as “Iceland in miniature” because it encapsulates many of the country’s varied landscapes—volcanic craters, jagged coastlines, waterfalls, and black sand beaches—all within a compact area. For photographers, it’s a treasure trove of textures, shapes, and dramatic contrasts, making it an ideal location for capturing grand vistas and intricate details. During our time on the peninsula, we visited several iconic coastal locations, including Arnastapi, Gatklettur, and Malarif, each offering something different for the keen photographer.
One of the key philosophies I encourage in these workshops is the importance of exploration by foot. The Snaefellsnes coastline is rugged and dramatic, with intricate basalt formations that beg to be photographed from multiple angles. Rather than just stopping at viewpoints or busy tourist spots, we took the time to walk along the shoreline with cameras ready, searching for compositions that capture the essence of the place. The basalt formations in this region offer endless opportunities for wide-angle photography and more intimate detail work. The sharp geometric lines of the basalt columns contrast beautifully with the often turbulent seas, creating the perfect scene for long-exposure photography. At the same time, the interplay of water against rock creates opportunities for capturing more abstract and fine art compositions.
• Arnastapi: Known for its dramatic cliffs and the famous basalt rock arch, Gatklettur, this location provided breathtaking seascapes and fascinating rock formations. It’s a photographer’s playground, with each step revealing new textures and compositions.
• Gatklettur: The natural arch is a centrepiece for any visit to this region, and we spent time here exploring the surrounding coastline, capturing the sweeping views and focusing on the arch as the subject in long exposures.
• Malarif: Located near the iconic lighthouse of the same name, Malarif offers expansive views of the coastline and was one of the highlights of our explorations. Here, the waves crashing against the basalt cliffs created perfect conditions for dynamic coastal photography.
We parked at various locations around the peninsula and then explored the surrounding areas on foot, both early in the morning and late in the afternoon. We photographed during the “golden hour” and stayed on location well into the sunset, capturing the changing light as it played off the landscape.
Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, and the initial forecast for the workshop was not promising—heavy rain and overcast skies were expected. However, the Icelandic gods smiled upon us, and we were instead treated to several days of ideal photographic conditions. Overcast skies created soft, diffused lighting, perfect for landscape photography. This gentle light minimized harsh contrasts and allowed us to capture the fine details in the basalt rock and surrounding landscapes.
One of the unexpected highlights of the trip was our visit to the Hraunfossar waterfalls, a series of waterfalls that cascade out of a lava field into the Hvítá River. To our delight, we arrived just as the autumn colours were at their peak. The contrast between the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the foliage against the cool blues of the water and the dark lava rock was spectacular, creating scenes that were a photographer’s dream.
The Hraunfossar waterfalls are easily accessible by a nearby walking path, which allowed us to explore different vantage points and compositions without rushing. This location was a wonderful opportunity to slow down and appreciate the subtle beauty of the Icelandic landscape in autumn.
As our four days ended, we returned to Keflavik, where we concluded the workshop with outbound flights. It was a short but highly productive trip, filled with the moments that make Iceland a true haven for photographers. Each day offered something unique and memorable, from the striking basalt coastline to the vibrant fall colours. This workshop was about capturing beautiful images and fostering a deeper connection with the landscape. Walking the coastline, breathing in the crisp autumn air, and experiencing Iceland’s natural wonders up close was as rewarding as the photographs we took home.
For those looking to explore Iceland in the future, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers an unparalleled combination of beauty, variety, and solitude, even in well-known spots. With the right approach—tripod and camera in hand, ready to explore—you’ll find endless opportunities to create photographs that tell the story of this incredible part of the world. We will likely be offering a further Iceland landscape workshop in the future. Please contact us to register your interest.
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