I recently had the opportunity to visit the Natthagi Valley in Iceland, and let me tell you, it was breathtaking. As soon as I arrived, I could see the still simmering lava field from the 2021 volcano eruption, which was both exciting and a little bit unnerving.
But as I explored the valley, I quickly forgot my nerves and was amazed by the stunning natural beauty surrounding me. I brought along my trusty Nikon D800 and even experimented with some medium format film cameras, including the Fuji GSWiii and the Ikon Zeiss Nettar.
I took numerous hikes through the valley, including the trail to a stunning waterfall surrounded by steep cliffs and the trail to the top of a nearby peak with panoramic views of the valley and beyond. I even printed off some of my favorite shots from the trip and have them proudly displayed in my home.
My experience in the Natthagi Valley was nothing short of incredible. It's truly a hidden gem in Iceland and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and authentic outdoor experience.
Gullfoss Waterfall can get quite crowded. While I did experience some troubles with my Fuji GSWiii at the waterfall, I was still able to capture some stunning shots with my Zeiss Ikon.
It's important to be careful when walking around as the surface can be wet and slippery. I would recommend bringing sturdy walking boots with Vibram soles, and I personally love my Scarpa boots as they have never failed me on difficult terrains.
Despite the crowds, I was happy with the final shot I captured of the waterfall. The sun was low and almost directly hitting the foreground, causing the shadows to be a bit lost, but I was still pleased with how the CineStill 800T film performed with the sky and light rays coming through. The image shines even more when converted to black-and-white, and I was captivated by the motion of the water falling and the fog-like spray crashing against the darkened landscape.
I also managed to get another shot with my Zeiss camera from a different angle, and the colors turned out better as I moved slightly to the left. I particularly liked the details of the tourists in the top right corner of the frame who were looking down at the waterfall. While most people will visit Strokkur Geyser when in Iceland, I highly recommend adding Gullfoss Waterfall to your list of must-see destinations as well.
On my way back, I noticed a farm in the distance and decided to explore it. The Efstidalur II dairy farm was a great find with an ice cream parlor that offers a fantastic view of the barn with cows and adorable little calves. Their ice cream was fresh and delicious, and they also serve other local produce like meat and vegetables.
The farm also has a restaurant and a bar upstairs, and it offers accommodations including a cozy cottage, apartments, and rooms in the main building. The location is stunning and surrounded by lush green fields and rolling hills, showcasing Iceland's rich farming heritage. I highly recommend visiting this place for a taste of Iceland's countryside and a glimpse into its history.
During my tour around Iceland, I was on a tight schedule and didn't have enough time to explore the capital Reykjavik. However, I did manage to walk down to the downtown area and discovered many interesting museums such as the Bond museum. I also visited a vibrant fish market with colorful huts. Although I got a few good shots, I wish I had more time to explore and enjoy the beautiful mountain views in the backdrop.
Sólheimajökull is a popular destination for hiking and ice climbing, located in the south of Iceland. The glacier has been receding over the past hundred years, making it a sobering reminder of the effects of climate change. Guided tours are available, and visitors are suited up with safety gear before heading out. The glacier is home to ice caves, which are a unique and stunning site, only accessible for a few months a year. The surrounding area is also beautiful, with rugged terrain, towering cliffs, and rolling hills. Visitors should arrive early in the morning for the warm and contrasting light, and make sure to have a secure camera strap for taking photos while keeping their hands free.
Reynisfjara Beach is one of my favourite places to visit in Iceland. It's a stunning black sand beach formed by volcanic activity, with dramatic basaltic cliffs and two large rock formations rising out of the ocean, which are said to be trolls who once turned to stone. However, safety is paramount here, and it's important to pay attention to the warning signs, especially about the powerful sneaker waves. Last year, a man died when he decided to go for a swim in the afternoon. The black sand beach and the cliffs surrounding it provide a unique and unforgettable backdrop for taking photographs, and the birdlife in the area is also incredible, with puffins and guillemots nesting in the cliffs. It's a natural wonder and a must-visit location in Iceland, but please be safe and follow all safety guidelines.
Seljalandsfoss is a must-visit waterfall in Iceland that I highly recommend to anyone coming to the country. Its beauty is truly breathtaking and it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The most unique thing about Seljalandsfoss is that visitors can walk behind it, which creates a memorable experience of feeling the mist on your face and seeing the water up close.
If you have some extra time to explore, I suggest checking out another nearby waterfall, which is hidden inside a narrow canyon and can only be accessed through a narrow opening in the rock.
And while we're talking about amazing natural wonders, let me tell you about Þingvellir National Park, which is one of my all-time favorite places to visit in Iceland.
I absolutely love visiting Þingvellir National Park in Iceland. It's a marvel of nature and history that always leaves me in awe. As I drive north-east from Reykjavik, I can see the rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, creating breathtaking landscapes of fissures, cliffs, and lakes. The largest natural lake in Iceland, Þingvallavatn, is also found here along with several other small lakes with crystal clear waters.
Not only is the park a feast for the eyes, but it also has a rich history. It was the birthplace of Icelandic democracy, as the location of Iceland's first parliament, the Alþingi, which was established in AD 930 and held annually at Þingvellir until 1798. The park still resonates with the echoes of Iceland's past.
It's no surprise that Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and I think it deserves all the recognition it can get. Whenever I visit, I'm always struck by its beauty and the unique experience it offers.
I was excited and nervous as I prepared to capture the Aurora Borealis on film for the first time. Despite the imperfections, the burn marks on the images added to their beauty, and holding the positives in my hand brought the moment back to life in a way that digital couldn't match. It was a magical experience that left me feeling grateful and inspired. I was shocked and delighted to learn that newer iPhones can capture the Aurora, opening up nighttime photography to more people. The magic of the Aurora will always hold a special place in my heart.
I'm glad to have shared some of my favourite travel photos with you and I'm honoured to offer them as limited edition prints. Buying one of these prints not only supports my work but also brings a piece of the world into your home. Photography has the power to inspire and uplift us, and I hope these images do just that for you.
On a different note, I had some trouble taking my film through security at London Stansted airport. However, I was able to have it hand-inspected by politely asking the security staff. Let me know if you've had similar experiences.