Iceland’s waterfalls are some of the most photogenic in the world: dramatic cliffs, misty spray, and ever‑changing light. With a little planning, you can capture images that do justice to these incredible landscapes—and enjoy a comfortable base at Ourhotels.is properties like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn while you explore.
Iceland’s weather and light are the first things to understand. Conditions can change in minutes, which is challenging for photographers but also creates unique shots. Cloudy skies often give you soft, even light that’s perfect for capturing detail in the water and surrounding rocks. On bright days, aim for early morning or late evening when the sun is low and the light is warmer. Staying nearby makes it much easier to time your visit for the best light, rather than shooting in harsh midday sun.
If you’re exploring the west of Iceland, Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður is an ideal base for photographing some of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls. From here, you can reach several falls along the Hvítá river and in the Borgarfjörður area without long drives. This gives you the flexibility to visit the same waterfall more than once—perhaps scouting compositions in the afternoon, then returning at sunrise or sunset for your final shots. Having a comfortable room and hot shower waiting at Hvítá Inn after standing in cold spray makes those early starts and late finishes much more enjoyable.
For classic waterfall photography, a tripod is almost essential. It lets you use slower shutter speeds to create that silky, flowing water effect. Start around 1/4 to 1 second and adjust depending on how fast the water is moving. Use a low ISO (100–200) to keep your images clean, and stop down your aperture (f/8–f/11) for sharpness front to back. A neutral density (ND) filter is very useful in Iceland, especially in summer when the days are long and bright; it cuts the light so you can use longer exposures without overexposing the image.
Composition is what turns a technically good shot into a memorable one. Look for strong foreground elements—mossy rocks, wildflowers in summer, ice formations in winter, or textured lava fields. Leading lines, such as a river flowing away from the waterfall or a path or fence, help guide the viewer’s eye into the frame. Don’t just shoot from the main viewpoint; walk around (staying on marked paths and respecting safety barriers) to find angles that show the waterfall in context with the surrounding mountains, coastline, or valleys.
On the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Stykkishólmur Inn is a great stop for photographers who want to combine waterfalls with coastal scenery and charming fishing villages. From Stykkishólmur, you can explore smaller, lesser‑known waterfalls that are often overlooked by tour buses. These quieter locations are perfect for experimenting with different compositions and longer sessions without crowds. After a day out, you can back up your photos, charge batteries, and plan the next sunrise or sunset shoot from the comfort of your room at Stykkishólmur Inn.
Protecting your gear is crucial when photographing Iceland waterfalls. The combination of wind and spray can quickly cover your lens with droplets. Bring a lens cloth or microfiber towel and wipe frequently. A simple rain cover or even a plastic bag can help shield your camera and lens between shots. Wide‑angle lenses (14–24mm or 16–35mm on full frame) are excellent for capturing the full height of the falls and the surrounding landscape, while a mid‑range zoom (24–70mm) lets you isolate interesting details like patterns in the water or people for scale.
Safety should always come before the shot. Rocks near waterfalls are often extremely slippery, and the water is cold and powerful. Stay behind barriers, avoid getting too close to edges, and be mindful of sudden gusts of wind. Waterproof boots with good grip are a smart investment, especially if you plan to cross shallow streams or stand in wet areas for the best angle. One of the advantages of staying with Ourhotels.is is that local staff can often share up‑to‑date information about conditions, road closures, and safe access points to nearby waterfalls.
In Iceland’s Westfjords, Ísafjörður Inn puts you within reach of some of the country’s wildest and least‑photographed waterfall landscapes. The fjords and steep mountains create dramatic backdrops, and the changing weather can transform a scene in minutes—from moody mist to glowing evening light. Because the Westfjords are more remote, having a comfortable base like Ísafjörður Inn makes it easier to wait out bad weather and be ready to move quickly when the light turns magical. This patience often leads to your most memorable images.
Don’t forget to experiment with different shutter speeds and perspectives. Fast shutter speeds (1/500s and above) can freeze individual droplets and show the raw power of the falls, while very long exposures (5–30 seconds, with a strong ND filter) can turn water into a dreamy, misty veil. Try shooting both horizontal and vertical frames, and step back to include people, roads, or buildings for scale. Iceland’s waterfalls are not just isolated features; they’re part of a larger landscape that tells a story.
Finally, plan your route with photography in mind. Using Ourhotels.is properties like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn as your bases lets you explore different regions of West Iceland at a relaxed pace. You can chase the best light, revisit your favorite waterfalls, and adapt to the weather without rushing long distances every day. With thoughtful planning, the right gear, and comfortable places to stay, you’ll come home with waterfall photos that truly capture the magic of Iceland.
