Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Hvítserkur in Iceland with expert insights on capturing stunning photography in challenging conditions.
Hvítserkur Low Tide Reflection, Vatnsnes Peninsula, Iceland
Sony α1
Sony 16-35 GM II
30 seconds
F/20
ISO 50
Photography in Uncharted Territories
Traveling for photography unveils the world's most breathtaking vistas, allowing you to immerse yourself in locations that inspire creativity. My adventures often blend photography with teaching through workshops, although I long for the thrill of exploring completely new terrains. Fortunately, every place I revisit deepens my connection—yet there's always that excitement of discovering the unfamiliar.
The Allure of Iceland
Iceland stands out as one of those captivating destinations. Since 2019, fellow photographer Don Smith and I have returned annually, leading workshops across the remarkable landscapes that lie beyond Reykjavik, including the iconic Snæfellsnes Peninsula and the magnificent Vestrahorn on the South Coast. Every winter offers not just a photographic opportunity but a chance to witness the ethereal beauty of the northern lights.
However, relying solely on our established itinerary felt limiting, knowing that stunning sites lay undiscovered. This year, we decided to venture into Iceland's northern regions, supported by a native photography guide familiar with some lesser-known spots. This change in direction opened up a brand new photographic canvas.
Finding Familiarity in the Unknown
Our itinerary included beloved sites like Kirkjufell and Budir’s Black Church. However, heading north presented an eerie sense of familiarity with the landscapes—a feeling distinctly reminiscent of the world depicted in "Game of Thrones." Unlike New Zealand, where the "Lord of the Rings" vibe is palpable, my first experience of Icelandic "Game of Thrones" magic happened as we journeyed onward. The stark, rugged terrain evoked a fantasy that necessitated pause and contemplation.
Hvítserkur: The Majestic Dragon Rock
Hvítserkur, a volcanic rock formation rising majestically from Húnaflói Bay, perfectly encapsulated the fantastical atmosphere I felt. Although it wasn’t a filming location for the show, the striking silhouette of the rock is reminiscent of the dramatic scenarios portrayed on screen, lending it the nickname "Drinking Dragon."
Formed from lava over twelve million years ago, Hvítserkur stands at 50 feet tall. As time passed, the softer materials surrounding it eroded, leaving this impressive basalt structure. While many photographs depict it surrounded by water, we found it amid a patchwork of mudflats and small pools during our visit, providing a unique opportunity.
Capturing the Moment
Initially, I was disappointed to miss out on the reflection shots due to the low tide, but I soon discovered the rich potential for something different and creative at this iconic site. The gentle ribbing of the mud patterns beneath my feet and the changing colors of the sky offered new possibilities for composition.
To set up my shot, I positioned my tripod just a foot above the ground at a wide angle with my 16-35mm lens set to 16mm. Despite the breeze disrupting the calm surface of nearby pools, I opted for a Breakthrough 6-stop dark polarizer filter to allow for longer exposure, enhancing reflections of the sunset colors in the water while capturing vague outlines of Hvítserkur.
The resulting photograph beautifully harmonizes the imposing presence of the rock and its dramatic environment, evoking the essence of being "north of the Wall."
Beyond the Lens: The Experience
Each photography trip is more than just capturing images; it’s about experiencing the profound beauty of nature and embracing moments of creativity. Returning year after year not only enriches my understanding of these landscapes but also ignites the passion to convey their allure through photography. As we set our sights on our next journey, each image captured becomes a testament to the unique beauty of Iceland—a land where every turn leads to an unexpected adventure.
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