Join Ryan Smith and Iceland's own Iurie Belegurschi, the man who put Iceland on the map, for an unforgettable adventure in one of the world's most photogenic locations. .... This is a unique opportunity, as Iurie rarely leads tours personally due to his commitments with Iceland Photo Tours and other business ventures. Don't miss this chance to learn from the best in the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland.
Discover The Magic of The Midnight Sun
WHEN:
JUNE 24th - JULY 1st, 2026
Payments:
Only a deposit of one-third is required at the time of signup.
The second payment is due 365 days before the event.
The final payment is due 120 days in advance.
Or
Take advantage of our new Easy Pay - Monthly Plan
Our Easy Pay Plan allows you to enroll in our photography workshops with ease and spread the cost over manageable monthly payments. ( see details in the cart )
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An 8 Day Photo Adventure in Iceland during the best time of the year!
LODGING AND TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED!!
Capture Iceland's iconic landscapes, from majestic mountain ranges and cascading waterfalls to desolate, otherworldly terrains. This photographer's paradise offers endless opportunities to explore and capture its breathtaking beauty. Photograph colorful wildflowers, black volcanic beaches, puffins, towering sea stacks, glacial lagoons , and captivating scenes as we journey through some of Iceland's most stunning locations during this 8-day photography tour.
Iceland is truly a photographer's paradise of epic proportions. With the expert guidance of world-renowned photographers Ryan Smith and Iurie Belegurschi, this is an adventure you don't want to miss. Join us for the experience of a lifetime!
June is a truly special time to photograph Iceland. The days are long, and you will be mesmerized by the natural phenomenon called the Midnight Sun, where sunlight remains visible throughout the night, creating incredibly long and often GLOWING SUNSETS when conditions allow. Be prepared to start early in the day and stay out late, discovering and photographing otherworldly scenes in the soft arctic light.
WHAT DOES THE MIDNIGHT SUN MEAN?
While the term "midnight sun" suggests that the sunlight is visible at midnight, it doesn't mean that the sun is always exactly at its zenith or most visible at that time. Instead, it refers to the phenomenon where the sun remains close to the horizon during the summer months, providing continuous daylight and unique lighting conditions.
This offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially around sunset when the light is soft and golden. We focus primarily on capturing stunning sunset scenes. If the light is favorable, we linger to make the most of it. If the conditions aren't ideal, we head back to the hotel for some rest. Our itinerary includes drive time between locations, allowing us to take breaks and explore various sights along the way, maximizing our experience of Iceland's diverse landscapes.
Journey through the heart of Iceland, where you'll capture stunning scenes of natural beauty and photograph Iceland's iconic landscapes. Our adventure will take you to breathtaking locations featuring majestic mountains, powerful waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and black sand beaches.
Explore vivid geothermal areas, serene glacial lagoons, and sparkling ice beaches, all under the mesmerizing glow of the Midnight Sun. Delve into the beauty of Iceland's best locations, where you’ll photograph awe-inspiring vistas, lush moss-covered terrains, and so much more!
As we traverse this photographer's paradise, you'll have the opportunity to experience the magic of Iceland's ever-changing light and landscape, creating unforgettable memories and stunning images.
Iceland truly is a land of contrasts, and the South Coast offers an entirely different landscape of photogenic wonders. Glistening ice crystals nestled in the volcanic black sands of Diamond Beach are Iceland's claim to fame, and the serene glacial lagoon at Jökulsárlón will have you clicking that shutter button at every turn!!
DRONE FRIENDLY WORKSHOP
Our workshop is drone-friendly, offering participants the OPTIONAL opportunity to capture stunning aerial shots alongside traditional photography. We encourage you to bring your drone to enhance your creative experience, and we provide guidance on how to get the best results in our picturesque locations.
EXAMPLE ITINERARY
While we strive to follow the planned schedule, adjustments may be necessary due to weather conditions, access restrictions, or other unforeseen circumstances. Rest assured, any changes made will always prioritize your safety and the quality of your photographic experience.
WEATHER DYNAMICS
Embracing the unpredictability of nature often leads to the most unforgettable experiences. Be prepared
for those unexpected moments that can transform an ordinary outing into an extraordinary adventure. Whether it's a sudden burst of sunlight breaking through the clouds or a dramatic storm that adds intensity to
the landscape, these moments make each trip unique and memorable. We can't control the weather on our journeys, we can always control our attitudes. With a positive mindset, there are never bad days—only
opportunities to discover the beauty that nature offers in its own time and way.
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Dinner
Welcome to Iceland! After your arrival at Keflavík International Airport, Settle into your accommodations at our starting point in Reykjavík and join us for a warm welcome dinner. Here, you will meet your guides, Ryan Smith and Iurie Belegurshi, and fellow participants. We'll go over the workshop schedule, discuss our photographic goals, and get excited for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Explore the picturesque Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes. We will photograph the iconic Kirkjufell mountain and its surrounding waterfalls.
Visit the Black Church at Búðir for striking contrast shots and capture the dramatic cliffs at Lóndrangar. This day promises a variety of scenes, from stunning coastal views to rugged volcanic formations.
Day 3: Golden Circle Adventure
On this day, we head towards the renowned Golden Circle. Our first stop will be the enchanting Brúarfoss waterfall, known for its striking electric blue waters cascading over dark volcanic rock. Located near the Golden Circle, Brúarfoss is accessible year-round, but it is most photogenic during the summer when the sky is lit up with the red and pink hues of the Midnight Sun.
We have possible options to visit Geysir geothermal areas, where you can photograph the spouting geysers and bubbling hot springs. We may have time to capture the majesty of Gullfoss, one of Iceland's most powerful waterfalls, with its thunderous cascades.
Day 4: Wonders of Vík
We'll enjoy our time in Vík, where we'll photograph some of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls and take in the Iconic Lupin Blooms.
Photographing the lupins in Vík provides a stunning contrast of vibrant purple flowers against the backdrop of black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. Additionally, the charming red-roofed church perched on the hill adds an extra element of beauty and a perfect focal point to capture the essence of this picturesque Icelandic village.
Capturing Seljalandsfoss offers a unique opportunity to photograph one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls.
Don't miss the chance to walk behind the falls for a breathtaking view, especially at sunset when the light creates a magical glow through the cascading water.
Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and the hidden gem Kvernufoss.
Explore the dramatic cliffs and sea stacks of Dyrhólaey, where lupins are in full bloom, and puffins nest along the coast. The black sand beach of Reynisfjara will provide stunning seascapes and unique rock formations to capture.
Explore the dramatic cliffs and sea stacks of Dyrhólaey, where lupins are in full bloom, and puffins nest along the coast.
Abnother option we may take in if time permits are the black sand beach of Reynisfjara will provide stunning seascapes and unique rock formations to capture. This location that was once voted the most beautiful non tropical beach in the world. Marvel at the hexagonal basalt columns and watch as the waves crash in on the shore.
Day 5: Vatnajökull National Park – Glacier Lagoon
We will be sure to visit (Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon): Today we have one goal....to see and capture Vatnajökull National Park. Being home to the "Crown Jewel ofIceland," Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, it is not surprising that Vatnajökull is one of the most photographed locations in Iceland.
Here, giant icebergs break away from the "mother glacier" and float serenely on the waters of the lagoon, before making their way out to sea. Each iceberg is unique in shape and color guaranteeing that no photo is ever the same, and it is often possible to spot resident seals weaving in and out of the icebergs.
Next to the lagoon is the world famous Diamond Beach; a stretch of coast where icebergs from Jökulsárlón wash up on the shore and their glittering crystalline appearance contrasts beautifully with the black sands upon which they rest.
Day 6: Vatnajökull National Park – Mt. Vestrahorn
Continue exploring Vatnajökull National Park, focusing on Mt. Vestrahorn and Stokksnes Beach. The dramatic peaks of Vestrahorn rising from the black sand dunes make for awe-inspiring photographs. Capture the reflections of the mountains in the shallow pools and the dynamic interplay of light and shadow on the rugged terrain.
There is a chance you might be able to shoot some breathtaking braided rivers in the southern region, although we can't promise specific locations. Nevertheless, we encourage you to bring your drone(s) to maximize your opportunities for capturing stunning aerial shots.
Day 7: South Coast to Reykjavík
Our journey back to Reykjavík will be filled with more photographic opportunities along the south coast. We’ll stop at glacier outlets and mossy lava fields, visit the smallest church in Iceland at Hof, and marvel at the impressive Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. If time permits, we’ll make additional stops for any missed photo opportunities before returning to Reykjavík for our final night together.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to Iceland and your new friends. You will be transferred to Keflavík International Airport for your departure. Take home unforgettable memories and stunning photographs from this extraordinary adventure in Iceland.
What's Included
- 7 nights double occupancy lodging (single occupancy is available for an additional $800)
- 2 Group Dinners!!
- All transportation during the workshop National park entry fees & special accesses
- Daily breakfast
- A great time, good memories, and a lot of laughs!
What's Not Included
- Flights to and from your home
- Travel insurance
- Airport transfers
- Passport
- Snacks
- Alcohol & beverages
- Lunch and dinner (with the exception of the two group dinners)
- Anything not mentioned above as "included"
*U.S. citizens may visit Iceland without a visa for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes.
In-Field Instruction From Two Professional Photographers
- Camera setting considerations for varying conditions, locations and desired effects
- Techniques on creating powerful & dynamic compositions
- Step by step instruction on shooting & stitching panoramic images
- Strategies on gaining full detail in high dynamic range scenes
- Bracketing concepts for adding a variety of looks & blending opportunities
- Camera settings for maximizing depth of field & nailing focus within an image
- Mastering shutter speeds for gaining the desired look & feel of water
- Creating compelling compositions and storytelling through images
- Controlling your camera in manual mode
- Understanding and using the Histogram
- Composition techniques
- Finding foregrounds
- Filters - when and how to use them. Avoiding their pitfalls
- How lens selection affects the scene
- Technical Tricks: Bracketing, Focus Stacking, Perspective Blending
- Understanding and using light
- Capturing difficult scenes
- Post Processing Instruction
- Lightroom and Photoshop Techniques
- Importing and organizing
- Using the clone tool, warping, stretching and eliminating distractions
- Blending images in Photoshop
- Dodging and burning
- Using layers and masks
- Image critique
Recommended Camera Gear
- DSLR or mirrorless camera (full-frame preferable)
- Lenses ranging from wide angle (16-35), mid-range (24-105) & a long
telephoto (200-600) is is preferable for wildlife, but a (100-400) will
work, and also be useful for landscapes. - Drones are welcome and encouraged
- Memory cards
- Sturdy tripod & ballhead
- Remote shutter release
- Circular polarizer and ND filters
- Lens cloths
- Extra batteries, and memory cards
- Rocket blower
- Cleaning supplies
- Laptop with Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop
- Protection for your camera gear & backpack
Recommended Personal Gear - Quick dry, lightweight long pants and shirts
- Warm/water resistant hiking boots/shoes
- Camera Backpack
- Warm jacket
- Fleece underlayers
- Rain coat and/or wind shell
- Headlamp
- Refillable water bottle
- Hat, gloves
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Sunblock
Ryan Smith developed a love and passion for the outdoors early on in life, which fueled an obsession for landscape photography. Growing up in the beautifully diverse state of Utah, Ryan has consistently traveled through the west and beyond capturing iconic views which spark emotion and tell a story. Ryan's artistic style is unique and unmistakable which has led to prestigious awards and work featured within publications. His work is also found within various high end galleries throughout the west including Jackson Hole, Wyoming; Park City, Utah; Telluride, Colorado; Aspen, Colorado & Sedona, Arizona.
Combining his professional experience as a corporate trainer with his passion for photography, Ryan has a knack for sharing the technical aspects of photography in an easy to understand way through various workshops, tours, and events through the west and the Hawaiian Islands. He enjoys adapting to the various needs of his attendees whether it's in the field learning the technical side and composition techniques, or if its in the classroom focusing on perfecting post editing techniques and helping achieve a print ready images.
Iurie Belegurschi
Iurie Belegurschi is an internationally acclaimed nature photographer with a passion for the outdoors and the Arctic Region. Self-taught, he is renowned for his impressive talent for capturing the power, majesty and vulnerability of the world’s most spectacular landscapes. He is particularly esteemed for his breathtaking images of Iceland, where he is based, most notably of the country’s Northern Lights, Ice Caves and Volcanoes.
Part of why Iurie is so respected in his field and admired by nature-lovers is his unmatched talent in low-light photography; each shot imparts a stunning air of mysticism. Furthermore, his willingness to put himself in challenging landscapes under extreme conditions, often for weeks at a time, has allowed him to capture images few others would have the steeliness to obtain.
This dedication has unveiled the energy, magic and epic beauty of Iceland’s wilderness at its most primordial. As such, Iurie’s award-winning photographs are immediately distinguishable by their awe-inspiring compositions.
His extraordinary portfolio, however, does not just bestow a sense of wonder at the world upon its viewers but an understanding of the importance of its preservation. Every photograph pushes an agenda of conservationism more compelling than any words could.
After all, Iurie’s photographic mission is to inspire global action dedicated to fighting the climate crisis, driven by his first-hand experiences witnessing the retreat of Iceland’s glaciers. Through his documentation of the fragility and majesty of the environment, he seeks to educate his audience on their role in the protection of our magnificent planet.
By collaborating with scientists, conservationists and other artists, this mission gains strength with every image he develops.
Iurie’s message has perhaps been most impactful through his acclaimed photography exhibitions of Iceland’s nature, which have been excellently received both domestically and abroad. Such showcases of his incredible portfolio have proved his excellence as a visual storyteller, spellbinding audiences with both the striking beauty of his photographs and their impactful, poignant narratives.
Aside from his exhibitions, his groundbreaking images have been featured internationally in calendars, advertising, books, magazines and countless other media outlets.