11/03/2026
Today was an incredible day, filled with challenges and rewards. We started before sunrise, literally almost in the dark (and in blowing rain conditions) at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Photos 1 and 2 are the edited and unedited versions of one of my first images. We were basically the only people there in the midst of driving rain, but it made for its own cool look. Diamond Beach and our Ice Cave tour (including over 4 kilometers of hiking) were all in the same rainy conditions. Then the sun came out, not only giving us contrast and color to the same scene as that morning, but also revealing the mountains that my group did not know were even there earlier that day. Photos 3 and 4 are some of the final images at the end of the day.
So here are my lessons from one of the most challenging days we have ever had on our tours (but the group was fantastic and kept working through it)
- I was reminded that every lighting condition has its own unique characteristics, and understanding how to adapt to them is key to capturing stunning shots. I always say that there is no "bad light". You make the best of what you have and come out with unique images that would not have been captured if it were not for the extreme conditions.
- I also learned that good rain gear is essential. Staying as dry as possible keeps you shooting longer, and protecting your camera equipment, or knowing what it can handle, is critical. Shooting when it is hard to concentrate requires you to be really familiar with your camera and tripod.
- Lens maintenance is crucial in harsh conditions like Iceland's unpredictable weather. A quick wipe of the lens and a check for water spots can make all the difference in the quality of your photo (and have extra lens cloths because they get wet) 📸💦
- Finally, bad weather conditions bring with them their own peacefulness to those who get out in them. I mean, photographing locations like these with no one else around has its own rewards. Contrast that with when we left this evening; there were hundreds, not only tourists but serious photographers (most of whom missed all the shots we captured this morning)!
