Hey there! I just had the most amazing experience shooting an elopement in Iceland with Agnes and Ben from Sweden. Despite the blue cloudless skies, it was absolutely freezing, but the beautiful landscapes of Snæfellsnes Peninsula made it totally worth it.
I’ve been to Iceland several times by now and its always been such a stunning location for a destination elopement. And let me tell you – it did not disappoint. The views were absolutely breath-taking. The sunrise, the sun set, the snow-capped mountains, the frozen rivers and more created the perfect backdrops for their Iceland elopement photos. We did run into a few challenges with the weather – it was so cold that we all had to bundle up in our puffy winter jackets. But Agnes and Ben were absolute troopers. They were willing to brave the elements and hike to some of the most incredible vistas.
One of my favourite shots of the day from this Iceland elopement was when we neared the top of a hill and found a frozen river. Agnes and Ben stood, walked, ran together, the wind whipping their hair around, with a look of pure exhilaration on their faces. It was the perfect moment, and one that I’m so grateful to have captured. Overall, this was such an incredible experience. I love shooting elopements and destination weddings, and this one was definitely one of my favourites.
If you’re considering eloping in Iceland, I highly recommend it. The beauty of the country is simply unmatched.
Thanks so much for reading, and here is a flavour of some of the highlight’s from this incredible elopement in Iceland!
Considering eloping to Iceland..?
So you’ve decided to elope and want an epic backdrop for your intimate wedding ceremony and photos to remember it by.
Look no further than Iceland, an elopement paradise. With its rugged landscapes, massive waterfalls, geothermal pools, and the potential for the Northern Lights to make a cameo on your wedding day, Iceland was made for adventurous couples looking to exchange vows off the beaten path. Not to mention, Iceland’s stunning scenery provides the perfect excuse to splurge on an amazing photographer to capture your wedding in a way that will make all your friends jealous they weren’t invited. From black sand beaches to massive glaciers, your wedding photos will be nothing short of epic. If dramatic vistas and once-in-a-lifetime experiences are what you’re after for your special day, Iceland should be at the top of your elopement destination list. Adventure, natural beauty, and lifelong memories await in this Nordic island oasis.
The Stunning Landscapes of Iceland
Iceland is a paradise for elopement photography with its stunning and diverse landscapes.
• The dramatic volcanic landscapes are like nothing else on earth. Massive glaciers, black sand beaches, thundering waterfalls – Iceland has it all. You could have your first kiss as newlyweds in front of a towering glacier or say your vows at the base of a crashing waterfall.
• The Golden Circle route offers some of the most iconic Icelandic scenery in one compact area. There’s the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the explosive Geysir geothermal area and the rift valley of Þingvellir National Park. What a perfect backdrop for your elopement photos!
• The picturesque town of Vik in South Iceland is a photographer’s dream with its black sand beaches, sea cliffs and offshore sea stacks. The Dyrhólaey rock arch and Reynisfjara beach with its basalt columns are stunning spots for an elopement shoot at sunrise or sunset.
• The Northern Lights are a spectacular sight and Iceland is one of the best places to view them. Imagine exchanging your vows under the dancing Aurora – a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience! The winter months from September to March offer the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
With its breath-taking beauty and natural wonders, Iceland creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable elopement and honeymoon. The dramatic scenery offers a new backdrop for each location, giving you gorgeous photos to cherish for years to come. An Icelandic elopement is sure to exceed your wildest dreams!
Planning an Iceland Elopement
Planning an elopement in Iceland is a dream come true for any adventurous couple. This Nordic island nation is a photographer’s paradise, with dramatic landscapes around every turn.
• Choose a region to focus on. The options are endless, from massive glaciers and ice caves to volcanic beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights. The Golden Circle and South Coast are popular for elopements.
• Scout locations ahead of time. Iceland’s landscapes are constantly changing, so do some research on Instagram or with local photographers to find spots that inspire you. Some of the most stunning include waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, black sand beaches like Reynisfjara, and mountain vistas in Landmannalaugar.
• Work with an Icelandic wedding planner. They can help handle logistics like securing permits for more remote locations, booking vendors, and arranging your ceremony details. They know all the hidden gems and how to avoid the big crowds.
• Consider an adventure elopement. Why not arrive by helicopter, exchange vows on top of a glacier, or say ‘I do’ under the Northern Lights? Iceland offers so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences for your special day.
• Extend your stay for a ‘minimoon’. With so much natural beauty surrounding you, Iceland is the perfect place to stay a while after the wedding. Relax in geothermal pools, go whale watching or horseback riding, and create more cherished memories together.
Iceland truly is an elopement paradise, with landscapes so surreal and striking that your wedding photos will look like they came straight out of a dream. Start planning your adventure today!
Finding the Perfect Photographer for Your Iceland Elopement
Finding an experienced elopement photographer is key to capturing your Iceland elopement adventure. With so many stunning landscapes, you’ll want a pro who knows all the best spots and can guide you to them. Sure while I’m at it, just choose me. I got ya covered…!! I know the best spots.
Must-See Locations for Elopement Photos in Iceland
If you’re considering eloping to Iceland, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland is a breathtaking location for your wedding photos. The area boasts some of the most stunning landscapes and dramatic coastlines in the world, making it the perfect backdrop for your special day. Here are five must-see locations for elopement photos in the area:
First up is the Búðir black church. This charming little black wooden church was built in the 18th century and sits by the ocean, making for magical elopement photos. The church is nestled in a peaceful coastal village with the beach and rocky coast providing a stunning backdrop.
Kirkjufell Mountain
Want a real “wow” backdrop for your elopement photos? Head to Kirkjufell mountain on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This iconic free-standing peak juts up from the sea, often called “the most photographed mountain in Iceland.” Pose in front of Kirkjufell for an epic shot, or have your photographer capture romantic portraits of you two on the nearby black sand beach with the mountain looming behind. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula also offers lava fields, craters, fjords and quaint fishing villages if you want to extend your photo session.
The Lónafjörður bay is a sweeping bay surrounded by towering cliffs and mountains, making it a dramatic location for elopement pictures. The area is peaceful and remote, allowing couples to capture special moments with few distractions.
The Rauðfeldsgjá gorge is a deep red gorge carved through the volcanic rock by a small stream, making it an otherworldly spot for photos. The red and brown rock contrasts beautifully with the green moss and vegetation, providing a memorable location for couples.
Finally, the Djúpalónssandur beach is a black pebble beach that’s famous for its four remaining ‘stone sailors’ – rocks carved into human forms by the harsh weather. The beach provides a windswept, rugged backdrop while the stone sailors make a unique feature for couples’ photos.
I hope these locations give you some ideas for capturing special moments on your elopement in Iceland! Let me know if you have any other questions.
FAQ: Eloping and Photography in Iceland
Do I need a permit to elope in Iceland?
No, Iceland does not require any special permits for eloping or having a small wedding ceremony. As long as you have a wedding officiant to perform the ceremony, you are free to elope anywhere in Iceland’s stunning landscapes without permits or fees. Some popular elopement locations do require a small access fee, but no permit is needed.
What time of year is best for eloping in Iceland?
Iceland’s summer season from June to August offers the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for elopements. You’ll have nearly 24 hours of daylight for photography. However, it is also the most popular and crowded time. For smaller crowds and lower prices, consider going in May, September or even October. You may encounter snow, but also potential for stunning fall colours and Northern Lights. The winter months tend to be very cold, dark and stormy, so not ideal for elopements or photography.
Do I need a wedding planner to elope in Iceland?
While a local wedding planner can help handle details and logistics, eloping in Iceland is simple enough to organise yourself. Many vendors like photographers, hair and makeup artists, officiants, and florists regularly work with eloping couples and can help guide you through the process. Doing your own research on locations, travel tips, and top vendors will allow you to craft an intimate elopement experience tailored to your vision.
With so many incredible natural wonders, Iceland offers a lifetime of elopement photography opportunities in one destination. Adventure elopements to more remote locations will provide the most epic and private backdrops for your wedding photos.
Conclusion
So there you have it, Iceland is the perfect place for an intimate elopement and to capture breathtaking photos of your special day. With dramatic landscapes around every turn, stunning waterfalls, geothermal features and the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, your elopement photos will be truly epic. If you’re looking to escape the big wedding madness and focus on what really matters – committing to the love of your life surrounded by raw natural beauty – then Iceland should be at the top of your list. Head into the Highlands, find a secluded mountain lake or black sand beach and pledge your love and devotion to one another in a place that will ignite the passion in your relationship for years to come. Iceland: the land of fire and ice, and the ideal elopement paradise for adventure-seeking couples.
What are you waiting for? Start planning your Icelandic elopement today! Contact me..!
