Best locations in the south coast of Iceland
The south coast of Iceland has undoubtedly become one of the most popular touristy routes in the recent years and there is a reason why. That part of Iceland is probably the most versatile and epic, plus almost all of the famous attractions are located very close to the Ring Road that goes all around the island, which means all of the attractions are accessible even on a small 2WD car all year round (except stormy conditions).
As a photographer who has traveled a lot around and captured countless photoshoots in Iceland, I am excited to share my top 5 spots for the best photos in the south coast.
1. Skógafoss waterfall
You probably have seen this location a million times as it has exploded on social media over the past decade, nevertheless it remains one of my favourites as Skógafoss waterfall is one of Iceland's largest and most picturesque waterfalls, and it provides a stunning backdrop. When it is sunny you can usually see a rainbow right at your feet!
Be aware that usually there is a lot of mist coming from the waterfall so you might end up completely soaked after the shoot (if you are unlucky with the wind direction)! This, however, can also be an advantage and help to create a dreamy atmosphere that will make your photos feel magical and enchanting.
Best time and weather to shoot: as this place is super popular with tourists who start coming at 9 am I’d recommend starting either at 8 or late in the evening. If it’s cloudy the time of the shoot doesn’t matter that much, the light will be even throughout the whole day, in sunny weather you can get the rainbow and the best time of day would be in the afternoon (time depends on the season too).
Best colors to wear: bright colors like red, yellow, orange, navy blue, white could work as well.
2. Kvernufoss waterfall
Another waterfall which is located just around the corner next to Skógafoss (about 5 min driving between the parking sites) is Kvernufoss. Unlike some of the more popular waterfalls in the area, Kvernufoss is relatively unknown, providing couples with a more intimate and secluded setting for their photos.
To reach Kvernufoss, you will need to take a short hike through a picturesque canyon (about 10-15 min of walking from the parking lot). Once you reach Kvernufoss, you will be greeted by a stunning 30-meter waterfall that cascades down into a beautiful pool of water.
What makes Kvernufoss particularly special is its location. The waterfall is situated in a narrow canyon, which creates a natural amphitheater and amplifies the sound of the water. The surrounding cliffs and greenery provide a stunning and intimate backdrop for a breathtaking photos. You can also walk behind the waterfall and take some really cool photos!
Best time and weather to shoot: overcast/cloudy
Best colors to wear: red, yellow, blue, white
3. Reynisfjara black sand beach
This is probably by far the most popular place in Iceland with tourists from all over the world. Reynisfjara (which literally translates as Reynir’s beach by the way) is known for its fine volcanic sand, towering hexagonal shaped basalt columns and stunning sea stacks. This location provides a dramatic and romantic backdrop and no wonder it is so popular with couples coming for a shoot. If you want to avoid the crowds I’d recommend coming early in the morning at the sunrise or late before the sunset at night during June/July.
The rock formations add unique textures and shapes to the backdrop of your photos making this place look like it’s straight out of a movie scene (by the way, it was one of the filming location of the famous TV show Game of Thrones).
A sunrise and the moment right before the sunset are the best times of day to shoot in sunny weather at this location. It looks less dramatic and creates more of a happy and dreamy vibe.
Best time and weather to shoot: sunrise, sunset (in the summer).
Best colors to wear: avoid dark tones and all black/dark outfits, best choice would be red, white, yellow, blue, beige.
4. Víkurfjara/black sand beach in Vík
Another stunning black sand beach on the South coast of Iceland is the beach in the town of Vík. This place is much less popular than it’s neighbour Reynisfjara but not less impressive. It is also not as dangerous as the one mentioned above as waves are usually way small here.
5. Sólheimajökull glacier
Located at the edge of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, Sólheimajökull glacier provides couples with a mesmerising backdrop for their photoshoots. The glacier features stunning ice formations, deep crevasses, a small glacier lagoon and a shoreline full of volcanic black sand, creating a surreal and otherworldly setting.
One of the best things about Sólheimajökull glacier is that it's accessible year-round, making it a great location for photoshoots at any time of the year. During the winter months, the glacier is covered in snow and ice, creating an impressive setting for couples' photos. In the summer months, the snow melts away, revealing the blue glacial ice underneath.
Keep in mind that it takes about 15 min of hiking from the parking lot to get close to the glacier itself but the views are definitely worth it!
Best time and weather to shoot: overcast/cloudy.
Best colors to wear: bright and dark tones, yellow, orange, red, brown, white and black.
5. Secret waterfall
This hidden gem is absolutely mesmerising and the best part is that I can almost guarantee you we will be there completely alone! Not many people know about this waterfall (there are no signs and it’s not even on Google maps) so it is perfect if you want to escape the crowds of tourists on the South coast.
This location is easy to get to and doesn’t involve any hiking as you can drive almost all the way to the waterfall. It is perfect for intimate elopements and proposal or engagement photos.
Best time and weather: overcast/cloudy.
Best colors to wear: red, blue, white and black.
6. Glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón (available only for elopements or full day photo sessions)
This famous glacier lagoon is known for its crystal clear blue waters, floating icebergs, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The lagoon is created by melting glacier ice that flows into the ocean, providing a surreal backdrop for couples' photoshoots.
While Jökulsárlón is a popular tourist destination, it's also an incredibly peaceful and serene location that offers couples the opportunity to connect with nature and each other.
At Jökulsárlón, couples have the opportunity to capture beautiful photos with floating icebergs in the background that come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and their intricate patterns and textures make for a truly unique and romantic setting. In addition to the lagoon itself, there are also several nearby black sand beaches, one of them, known as the so called Diamond beach, became extremely popular with tourists in the recent years.
Best time and weather to shoot: sunny weather, sunset
Best colors to wear: beige, bright colours that are contrasty with black