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  • Writer's pictureAlvis Pham
    • Jul 16, 2020
    • 3 min read

How to Photograph an Engagement Session in Iceland During the Winter

Iceland is truly the Mecca for wedding photographers. It's an adventure elopement in a winter wonderland for all the couples who love to travel! Its natural landscapes simply take your breath away and I really mean it. As soon as I drove out of the Airport in REYKJAVÍK I knew that I was in for an amazing adventure. From its Icy shores to its black sand beaches, there really is no other place like Iceland. If you ever get the chance too, I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend going to Iceland. The images you get there will enhance your portfolio like no other! Who knows, maybe I'll come back here for my engagement photos whenever that day comes. Our trip lasted 7 days and we basically drove in one big circle around the entire country. However, be wary that many popular destinations are closed during the winter due to bad road conditions so please plan accordingly and check online before heading to that spot. In this blog, we'll go over how to travel to Iceland :

  • What equipment to bring

  • Tips and Hacks

  • What locations to stop by

Here's a link to our 7 day itinerary : Iceland Itinerary



EQUIPMENT AND GEAR


Photography and Lighting :

Because we were moving around a lot, I wanted to travel as light as possible while not compromising in lighting. Here's a list of my camera gear and lighting equipment :

  • Sony A7III x 2 (As a wedding photographer ALWAYS bring a backup camera in case your main)

  • Sony Zeiss 16-35mm F4 lens

  • Sony G-Master 24-70 F2.8

  • Waterproof Camera Covers

  • Pelican 1510 Case (Fits carry on requirements for almost all airlines)

  • DJI Mavic Air

  • Godox AD200

  • Godox Xpro-S Trigger

  • Lightstand

  • Godox Softbox

  • DJI Ronin S

  • Lightweight Tripod

Basic Essentials

During the winter, Iceland temperatures ranges from cold to very cold. Temperature averages from 20F to 38F and this can feel even colder with the high winds. Also, the weather can change drastically! We endured a snow storm, rain, strong winds, then warm sunshine all in the same hour!

  • Thermals

  • Wool Sweater

  • Wool Socks (bring extra!)

  • Waterproof insulated pants

  • Beanie or ear covers

  • Windproof Jackets

  • Waterproof and insulated boots

  • Emergency Blankets

  • Hand warmers (these will save your life, your hands will get cold very quick when using a camera)

  • Waterproof Gloves

  • Backpack

  • First Aid Kit

TIPS AND HACKS

  1. BUY MOST OF YOUR FOOD FOR THE TRIP AT THE COSTCO OR A NEARBY SUPERMARKET. When you begin to leave the city to go to the beautiful destinations in Iceland, restaurants and markets are far in between. You don't want to be 50 miles away from the nearest market when you run out of food. Another thing, restaurants are VERY expensive in Iceland. A quick meal at a fast food restaurant can easily run you $20 USD pe