Iceland Photography Workshops: Frequently Asked Questions
Planning to join one of our Iceland photography workshops? Here you’ll find answers to common questions about photography experience, accommodation, equipment, travel arrangements and booking.
Our small-group expeditions explore Iceland’s landscapes with photography tuition from Diana Firląg and local expertise from Thor Excursions.
Photography and Workshop Experience
Do I need to be an experienced photographer?
You don’t need to be a professional photographer to join.
Our workshops are suitable for photographers with different levels of experience, although you should have a basic understanding of your camera.
Whether you want to improve your landscape photography, become more confident with manual settings or develop your own photographic style, guidance is adapted to your experience and goals.
How many photographers are in each group?
Each workshop is limited to a maximum of six photographers.
Keeping the groups small allows for individual guidance, flexibility at each location and enough time to explore different compositions without feeling rushed.
Who leads the workshops?
Photography tuition is provided by Diana Firląg, a landscape photographer and author based in Wales.
Our expeditions are organised in partnership with Thor Excursions, a local Icelandic tour operator. Thor Hjalmarsson brings extensive local knowledge of Iceland’s landscapes, road conditions and remote locations.
Bookings and administration are handled by Lightfall Expeditions Ltd.
What will I learn during the workshop?
The focus is on practical photography in real conditions, supported by editing guidance.
Depending on the location and conditions, we’ll work on composition, natural light, manual camera settings, long exposures, focus bracketing, image stacking and other landscape photography techniques.
Editing guidance is also included, helping you develop your photographs beyond the initial capture.
What locations will we photograph?
Each expedition explores a different region of Iceland.
Lights of the South focuses on South Iceland during winter, including black sand beaches, waterfalls, glaciers, volcanic landscapes and ice formations.
Secrets of the North explores North Iceland and the Highlands, including volcanic terrain, waterfalls, mountain landscapes and remote locations away from the busiest tourist routes.
Our itineraries remain flexible, allowing us to adapt to the light, weather, road access and conditions.
Will we photograph the northern lights?
Whenever conditions allow, yes.
Both our winter and September workshops provide opportunities for northern lights photography. We monitor weather, cloud cover and aurora forecasts to identify suitable opportunities.
However, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Are ice cave visits included?
A guided glacier and private ice cave experience is included in our South Iceland winter workshops, subject to weather, ice conditions and safe access.
These experiences are planned with local experts. Safety always takes priority, and the programme may need to change if conditions prevent access.
Accommodation and Travel
Is accommodation included?
Yes. All our current Iceland photography workshops include seven nights of accommodation with daily breakfast.
Accommodation is provided in shared twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
Single occupancy may be available for an additional charge, subject to availability.
Can I join the workshop on my own?
Absolutely. You can book as an individual photographer.
Our small-group format gives everyone the opportunity to learn, share experiences and explore Iceland alongside others with a common interest in photography.
If you would prefer a private room, please enquire about availability before booking.
Is transport included?
Yes. Transport from the agreed meeting point in Reykjavík, travel between photography locations and return transport to Reykjavík are included.
You will need to arrange your own flights and travel to the Reykjavík meeting point.
Final meeting details and travel information will be provided before departure.
When should I arrive in Reykjavík?
You should arrive in Reykjavík before the scheduled workshop pick-up.
The exact meeting time and location will be confirmed in your preparation information. We recommend allowing sufficient time for possible flight delays and avoiding arrival immediately before the scheduled departure.
What is included in the workshop price?
Our current Iceland photography workshops include:
Seven nights’ accommodation in shared twin rooms
Daily breakfast
Reykjavík pick-up and return
Transport throughout the expedition
Photography tuition and editing guidance
Local Icelandic guiding and route planning
A preparation guide before departure
South Iceland winter workshops also include a guided glacier and private ice cave experience, subject to conditions and safe access.
Flights, lunches, dinners, travel insurance, personal expenses and optional single-room supplements are not included.
How physically demanding are the workshops?
Our expeditions involve outdoor photography in changing weather conditions. Some locations require walking over uneven, rocky, snowy or potentially slippery ground while carrying camera equipment.
You should be comfortable spending time outdoors and walking with your photography gear.
The terrain and conditions vary between workshops. If you have any concerns about accessibility or physical requirements, please contact us before booking.
Is the itinerary fixed?
No. Flexibility is an important part of our approach.
Iceland’s weather and light can change quickly, particularly during winter and in the Highlands. We adapt the daily route to make the most of available photographic opportunities while considering road conditions and safety.
Some planned locations may be replaced with alternatives if access is restricted or conditions are unsuitable.
Equipment and Preparation
What camera equipment should I bring?
We recommend a camera that allows manual control of exposure, a suitable selection of lenses and a sturdy tripod.
A wide-angle lens is useful for wider landscapes, while a longer focal length can help isolate details within the scenery. Filters and other accessories may be useful depending on your preferred techniques.
You don’t need to own every piece of equipment. A detailed equipment and packing guide will be provided before the workshop.
Do I need to bring a laptop?
A laptop is recommended if you would like to take part in editing sessions and work on your photographs during the workshop.
Information about recommended software and preparation will be included in your pre-departure guide.
What clothing should I bring?
Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, so warm layers, waterproof outerwear and suitable outdoor footwear are essential.
Winter workshops require additional preparation for cold temperatures, wind, snow and icy conditions.
We’ll provide more detailed clothing recommendations before departure.
Booking and Payments
How do I reserve a place?
You can book your preferred expedition directly through our website.
Choose your workshop and date, then secure your place by paying the required deposit. Payment in full may also be available.
You will receive booking confirmation and further preparation details after payment.
How much is the deposit?
For our 2027 Iceland photography workshops:
South Iceland Winter Workshop: £2,890 per person, with an £867 deposit
North Iceland Highlands Workshop: £3,190 per person, with a £957 deposit
The remaining balance is due 30 days before the workshop begins.
All payments are processed in GBP. Any USD or EUR prices shown on our website are approximate conversions.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Appropriate travel insurance is required for all participants.
Your policy should provide suitable cover for your trip and the planned activities. We also recommend checking that your camera equipment is adequately insured.
What happens if I need to cancel?
Please review the Terms and Conditions linked on the relevant workshop page before booking.
Cancellation and refund conditions apply to both deposits and full payments. We strongly recommend purchasing appropriate travel insurance as soon as you book.
Still Have Questions?
If there’s something you would like to know before joining, please get in touch. We’re happy to help you understand what to expect and choose the expedition that best suits your interests and experience.