WHEN AND WHERE TO TAKE THE BEST ICELAND PHOTOS

Before each trip, I try to do a little research and scout various locations I want to shoot while I’m there. I like to figure out when there will be the best lighting, fewest crowds and plan my outfits in advance. It might sound a little over the top, but it makes things so much easier once I arrive and allows me to spend less time planning and more time enjoying my trip!

If you’ve been following me over on Instagram, you know I’ve recently been sharing a TON of Iceland content from my trip there last April. I went with my Russian and another’s couole and had an amazing experience, but it was also a bit challenging when it came to capturing photos the way I wanted while adjusting to less than ideal weather and lighting conditions.

Throughout the trip, I took notes on some of my favorite places and the best times to visit. Keep in mind, I visited in the spring so it may be different during other seasons. Below is my list of when and where to capture the best Iceland photos! I hope it helps you plan your Iceland adventure.

1. SELJAVALLALAUG

Some of Iceland’s main attractions are its natural thermal pools. There are several scattered throughout the country, but Seljavallalaug is one of the most popular. Not only is there a convenient changing room, but the stunning mountain views provide the perfect photo backdrop! (Here is a great site for finding other amazing hot springs in Iceland!)

Best time to visit: Late morning. You’ll have good lighting throughout the day, but if you want to avoid the crowds, late morning is the best time to go. This is also an incredible spot to catch the northern lights! There are some really cool hotels nearby in case you choose to stay.

2. DIAMOND BEACH

The jet black sand, giant glaciers, blue sea and sprawling mountain range found at Iceland’s Diamond Beach is truly a sight to behold. It was probably one of my favorite stops on our trip. We actually visited twice, once in the morning and at night and I still wish we could have spent more time there!

Best time to visit: Sunrise. The sun rises over the ocean at this beautiful beach making the early morning hours the best time to visit. The mountains in the background will be perfectly lit, guaranteeing the that you get some truly stunning photos!

3. SKÓGAFOSS WATERFALL

Iceland has some amazing waterfalls, but one that you absolutely must visit is Skógafoss. Snap some shots at the base of the falls, then head up the steps for a breathtaking view from the top!

Best time to visit: Morning or early afternoon. The lighting is good throughout the day, but to beat the crowds the earlier you arrive the better. If you prefer better lighting and a greater chance of seeing a rainbow, early afternoon is the better time to go (and when the picture above was taken). It will be busier at this time, but if you’re patient you’ll get a window without people to get your shot!

4. SELJALANDSFOSS WATERFALL

Seljalandsfoss is another one of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls. What makes this one stand out is the trail that winds all the way behind the falls where you can capture some truly magical shots!

Best time to visit: Sunset. If you arrive in the morning like we did at first, the waterfall will be completely shaded. Wait until the late afternoon or better yet, sunset when the golden rays are glisten against waterfall. If you’re lucky, you’ll even catch a rainbow! Luckily we had time to return at sunset the next day, which is when I snapped this photo!

5. REYNISFJARA BEACH

This black sand beach is otherworldly and should definitely be on your itinerary when in Iceland!

Best time to visit: Late afternoon or sunset. We arrived around 3 in the afternoon and while the lighting was good, it was also packed. I had to wait a while for the crowds to clear before I could snap this photo. Early evening or sunset is the better time to go not only for the beautiful golden hour lighting, but it will also be far less crowded. 

6. BLUE LAGOON

Despite being a man made hot spring, the Blue Lagoon is arguably the most popular attraction in Iceland. In addition to the sprawling thermal pool you’ll find various saunas, steam rooms and waterfalls to help you warm up, relax and rejuvenate!

Best time to visit: Early morning. Because it is so popular, it fills up fast! To avoid the crowds, purchase your tickets well in advance and select the earliest time available. The lighting won’t be the best first thing in the morning, but you will still be able to capture some beautiful, crowd-free photos!

We booked our tickets at the last minute so the only opening was at 3pm – just about the time all the tour buses rolled in! But we made the most and managed to find some quieter areas in the lagoon to enjoy our complimentary drink and unwind.

7. Reykjavík

Before my trip I knew I wanted to get a panoramic shot of the colorful city of Reykjavík. To get this, you’ll need to head to the top of the tower in the Hallgrímskirkja Church at the center of the city. 

Best time to visit: Anytime during opening hours. The tower is open October through May from 9am – 4:30pm and April through September from 9am – 8:30pm. It is closed on Sundays from 10:30am – 12:15pm. Tickets for the tower cost €8 and can be purchased in the gift shop.

8. NORTHERN LIGHTS

Catching a glimpse of the Northern lights was something I was most looking forward to before my trip. Luckily, we managed to spot them a couple times while we were there. It was one of the most magical experiences!

Best time to catch them: Late August – Mid April between midnight and 3am. You’ll also have a better chance of seeing them if you’re further away from the city. We spent a couple nights at Guesthouse Langaholt about an hour outside of Reykjavik. Luckily the conditions were just right for spotting them!

I hope this list helps you to better plan your Iceland adventure! If you’ve visited Iceland, what else would you add to this list? If you’ve never been what do you want to see most? Share your comments below!

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