Road Trip: Icelandic Summer

Over the past decade, Iceland has exploded onto the social media scene, captivating photographers from around the world. Its otherworldly landscapes, paired with the dramatic contrast of endless daylight in summer and complete darkness in winter, make it a dream destination for creatives seeking the extraordinary and unusual.

Years ago, I first discovered Iceland through photography vlogs on YouTube, and from the moment I saw its rugged coastlines, dramatic waterfalls, and towering igneous mountains, I was completely mesmerized. I knew then that I had to see it for myself one day. Fast forward seven or eight years, and there I was, finally flying over the land I had dreamed about for so long. Below me, volcanic vents sent plumes of steam into the sky, while mountains emerged and vanished beneath a rolling blanket of low clouds. It was already breathtaking, and my excitement levels were through the roof.

The adventure ahead would take me along Iceland’s famed Ring Road, tracing the country’s stunning south coast. But first, I had my sights set on a legendary northern landscape, one that had been at the top of my bucket list since those early days of watching YouTube.

On the way, though, I couldn’t resist a detour to an incredible series of waterfalls, where vibrant blue water cascaded seemingly out of nowhere. The falls burst forth from the lush vegetation above, with no visible river or source feeding them, a magical sight that set the tone for the journey ahead.

Hraunfossar, walls of cascades

After a long day of travelling and a quick stop in Grundarfjodur, with the sun lingering in the sky until nearly midnight, my final destination of the day came into view. You’ve likely seen it in movies, TV shows, or all over social media, but nothing compares to witnessing the iconic, arrow-shaped peak of Kirkjufell in person.

Framed by a cascading waterfall, with the mountain and clouds glowing in the fading evening light, the scene was pure magic. Of course, I wasn’t alone, about 30 other photographers had also gathered, each vying for the perfect shot of this world famous landmark. While I usually strive to capture new or unique perspectives of well-known locations, sometimes the classics are warranted.

Grundarfjodur Harbour beneath an epic mountain and Kirkjufell during the midnight sunset

With the unforgettable stop at Kirkjufell behind me, it was time to make my way back toward the South Coast’s iconic Ring Road. But in Iceland, the journey is just as captivating as the destination as the landscape is overflowing with breathtaking cascades at every turn.

Stunning waterfalls everywhere you look

It turned out to be an entire day dedicated to waterfalls—this region of Iceland is home to some of the country’s most famous and awe-inspiring falls. In fact, many were so popular and easily accessible that finding a parking spot was a challenge.

One of the most breathtaking stops was Gullfoss, where an immense volume of water thundered down multiple tiers, creating enormous spray that filled the air and created difficult conditions to shoot in. Another unforgettable experience was walking behind the towering Seljalandsfoss, feeling the sheer power of the water crashing down just metres away.

But my personal favorite had to be Bruarfoss, a hidden gem unlike any other. Its countless small cascades merged into a surreal, glacial blue stream that looked almost too vibrant to be real. It was pure magic with a glorious sunset lighting up the landscape as well.

Some of the more famous waterfalls of the journey, Gullfoss, Bruarfoss and Seljalandsfoss.

The next step along the way was the town of Vik which was a base for exploring dramatic black sand beaches, monumental sea stacks and checking out the local Puffin populations. Puffins are exceptionally cute birds and I can totally understand why they are so loved, watching them glide effortlessly over the dramatic cliffs and sea stacks, even in incredible winds, was amazing.

Puffins and Sea Stacks near Vik

The final stop on this incredible journey was the small town of Höfn, a gateway to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes. The route there was nothing short of spectacular, winding past towering mountains, countless waterfalls, and the iconic Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

One morning was dedicated to a grueling uphill hike, but the reward was well worth the effort. At the summit, a stunning waterfall cascaded through striking basalt columns, while the view back over the vast volcanic plains below was simply unforgettable.

The different views of Svartifoss

Another afternoon led to the foot of a massive glacier, surrounded by rugged peaks and shimmering ice. The sheer scale and beauty of the frozen landscape was humbling.

Svínafellsjökull, try saying that five times fast

But the true highlight of the area was an entire day spent exploring Jökulsárlón. From venturing into a mesmerizing ice cave to witnessing the ever changing glacier lagoon, the experience was nothing short of magical. It all culminated with a visit to Diamond Beach, where countless icebergs, having broken free from the glacier, drift out to sea only to be carried back and scattered like glittering gems across the jet-black sand of the beach. It was the perfect way to close out the day.

Jökulsárlón and one of the nearby mountains

One evening, I watched the sun set over Stokksnes, a breathtaking fusion of sea, sand, and towering mountains. The golden light danced across the black dunes, creating an otherworldly landscape. As one of Iceland’s most iconic locations, I wasn’t alone, other photographers dotted the landscape, each capturing their own version of this spectacular evening. The magic of the place was undeniable, a perfect farewell to an unforgettable journey before making the long trip back along the coast to the airport.

Stokksnes and the Vestrahorn Mountains.

My first journey to Iceland was nothing short of extraordinary, an adventure years in the making, it exceeded every one of my long held expectations. From its otherworldly landscapes to its raw, untamed beauty, every moment felt like a dream come to life. Yet, despite all I had seen, I knew there was still so much more to discover. So, Iceland, this is not goodbye, I will be back!

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These are just a few of the images I have taken on my journey across Iceland, if you would like to see more, check out the full gallery below!

Iceland

Winter in Nikko, Japan

I knew I would enjoy travelling around Japan as a landscape photographer but it wasn’t my primary reason for travelling there. However, I didn’t know how just much I would fall in love with the country. I already knew Japan is a country rich in history, culture and technology, but I soon came to learn that it is also a land of stunning vistas of which I would gladly return in a heartbeat.

Japan is also a place where each season is distinctly unique. Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms and amazing collections of flora, autumn displays an amazing range of colours and in summer Japan becomes a tropical paradise. However, I had the pleasure of enjoying a Japanese winter which was completely different again. I was able to discover many locations covered in fresh powder and hike through paths carved through 6 feet or more of snow and ice.

Mountains of Nikko at sunset.

One of the best places to experience a snowy winter is the city of Nikko, located in the Tochigi Prefecture about 2 hours north of Tokyo by car. Part of Nikko is set 1300m above sea level in the mountains along the shore beautiful Chuzenji Lake and is the gate to the Nikko National Park. To arrive here you must ascend the famous Irohazaka, two one way roads on either side of the river. One side takes you up and the other side takes you down. In total there are 52 hairpin turns across both roads as you drive through lush forest with scenic views of waterfalls and mountains. Although it is very much a tourist town, you won’t see too many people around in the winter which is another reason why it is the perfect reason time to visit.

Wooden pier on Chuzenji Lake amongst the snow and mist.

When the conditions are right you can experience a total whiteout. The low lying lake sitting in the clouds surrounded by mountains gives rise to this phenomena which is perfect for creating beautiful minimalist imagery.

Reflections of the NIkko Hills across Chuzenji Lake.

Starting in the town you can get amazing views over the lake to snow covered mountains. Snow fell during my first night in Nikko giving rise to a few inches of fresh powder on the ground and the mountains creating a stunning vistas right from my hotel room. Wandering down to the lake edge was even better as the docks and shoreline were covered in snow as well.

Freshly covered pier.

Kegon falls is one of the most famous attractions of the area and is located right in the heart of the town. The large waterfall has many viewpoints and you can even take an elevator to the base of it, which I would highly recommend, as you really feel tiny as the water cascades 97m down to you over the main falls. There are also a number of smaller cascades around the base of Kegon falls which all combine into the Daiya River that flows down the mountain.

The mighty Kegon falls, located right in town, the water drops 97m from the lake above.

Nikko National Park is a nature lovers paradise any time of year. It includes numerous waterfalls, stunning lakes, dense forests and towering mountains. Most attractions are fairly close to the road with a small walk to a lookout or viewpoint but there are larger hikes available too if you are so inclined. You’ll be able to take stunning pictures everywhere you go. Be warned however as a number of the quieter roads are closed in winter due to the large volume of snow over the roads.

Forest pathways in the snow.

Heading north from Nikko you will find yourself in beautiful forests covered in snow providing great imagery even on the roads youre driving. There are plenty of stops along the way for little walks to take in sights of waterfalls and lakes and you can stop in the little villages around the area nestled in the mountains.

Frosted trees in Nikko National Park.

One of my favourite experiences in Nikko was visiting Ryuzu falls with soft snow falling. This location is extremely easy to get to with the viewpoint just metres from the car park nestled between a couple of cafes.

Ryuzu Falls amidst fresh snow.

Winter in Nikko is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers and photographers alike. A paradise I would love to return to one day and experience it through different seasons. I would love to check it out with the intense colours of autumn, but for now that will have to wait.