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Iceland
From the 30th of May until the 13th of June, one of my best friends and I made a two week photographic trip to Iceland. We both had been talking about it since undergraduate school and when prices for plane tickets and rental cars remarkably dropped due to the economical crisis, we decided to book our trip.
We knew it would be impossible to see the entire country, so we chose to focus on three specific areas. In this way we could actually get a taste of the country without having to drive the whole time. By choosing only three areas we could take our time to get to know the place and to try out different shots, which I feel are essential elements in the photographic process.
Our journey started in Kevlavik Airport and from there we drove to Jokulsarlon glacial lake, with a side stop in Vik. Of all the places we visited, Jokulsarlon definitely made the biggest impression on us. During our nighttime visits, we could enjoy a silence which I believe to be inconceivable these days in our busy Western countries. Apart from that, we were also struck by the beauty of the surrealistic play between the translucent ice lake and the setting sun, which resulted in crystal-clear reflections due to the windless conditions.
After a four day stay there, we moved to the volcanic area and Lake of Myvatn, where we spent about five nights. The volcanic region around the Krafla Mountains impressed us deeply with its apocalyptic look and its perusing sulfur smell. Our stay there in a small desolate farmhouse, which we had all to ourselves, added to our excitement about the deserted character of Iceland.
We concluded our trip by visiting the Western region of Snaefellsnes, where we focused more on abstract images, as the weather failed us during these last days of our trip. But fortunately, the numerous little lambs, who kept us company during the nights, made up for the lousy weather conditions.
Conclusively, I have to admit that I struggled to get the chaotic landscape of Iceland on film. But the island nonetheless stole my heart away, with its remarkable peace and quiet, pure nature and trusting people. Three things that make this country an exceptional place nowadays.
Well, enough said, if you are interested in seeing my Iceland portfolio please check the image library.