Photo Workshop Report: Icelandic Highlands 2024 (with Mads)

Every summer I spend a lot of time in the interior of Iceland. Whether it’s on private trips or group photo workshops, I usually manage to come away with quite a lot of photographs I like. However, not every trip is as successful, especially when you do not control the one thing that matters most: the weather. During this Highlands photo workshop, which I hosted together with Mads Peter Iversen, things were not looking that positive during the first days of the workshop. Two pretty large storms were set to travel over the country, which would test our flexibility and forced us to think on our feet. Did we manage? Let’s find out!

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Photo Workshop Report: Icelandic Highlands 2024 (with Mads)

The wettest summer on record here in Iceland has really put my Canon EOS R5‘s weather sealing to the test…

…and it certainly doesn’t help when you love standing underneath waterfalls to get the shot!

Photo Workshop Report

This summer has been extremely challenging in terms of weather conditions on all my trips in Iceland. This photo workshop in particular, which I hosted together with my friend Mads Peter Iversen, was unfortunately no exception. No less than three full days of very poor, almost impossible weather conditions forced us to completely change our plans. Two big rainstorms, which you’d usually get in the autumn, were directly located above the areas we were supposed to explore. Visibility was forecasted to be extremely minimal with very low clouds and heavy showers – far from ideal. To get the most out of the situation, we decided to carefully pick & choose locations suitable for shooting without forcing ourselves to stick to the original schedule. We relied a lot on our extensive knowledge of Iceland and weather conditions.

Each day, we carefully analysed the weather maps and decided on locations that would somewhat guarantee us a decent chance at shooting. We avoided the heavy winds & rain and… With luck! On a few locations, we had some truly excellent conditions – with happy participants as a result! Some of the downtime was filled with editing and also educational presentations on photography & composition.

I have visited this particular glacier outlet several times but never have I had decent conditions. Until this unexpected visit!

Fortunately, after those first three wet days, we finally had improvements on the weather front. On the day we moved between hotels, and traveled from the southern part of the highlands to the northern part, we decided utilise the day to the fullest. We made it an extra long day and traversed deep into the highlands to finally discover what the highlands of Iceland are all about. On the same day, on our way to the hotel, we made a quick stop at a classic viewpoint to stretch our legs. The light was unbelievable! We quickly put up our drones and began exploring the area. What was supposed to be a 5 minute break, turned into almost an hour of collecting epic photographs.

The following days quickly made us forget the storm-filled first days. We got epic light, a great sunset, moody conditions and ultimately, excellent photographs!

Sometimes it’s not about shooting specific, named locations. If you get great light, the subjects kind of present themselves.

My Five Favourite Images Of This Photo Workshop

For me, the Highlands of Iceland really come into their own right when seen from above. While you can absolutely get by with a regular camera alone, you truly unlock the full potential when using a drone. As you will see, this is reflected in my five favourite images of this photo workshop.

This photography was taken in one of my favourite locations, right before the sun began setting. The soft light hitting the landscape really gives this image the right vibe.

This image was taken using the DJI Mavic 3 Pro (https://geni.us/jvn-mavic3pro).

I have discovered this composition via Isabel Tabacchi recently. I found it so compelling that I had to find the location and see it for myself. I have since visited it multiple times but I wanted to do something somewhat different with it. In this case, we had pretty low clouds, which added a lot of atmosphere to the scene.

This image was taken using the DJI Mavic 3 Pro (https://geni.us/jvn-mavic3pro).

The river patterns, or river braids, never disappoint. I included this one because I particularly liked the pattern but also the dappled light hitting the scene.

This image was taken using the DJI Mavic 3 Pro (https://geni.us/jvn-mavic3pro).

For the first time in a long time, the wind pushed the spray of Háifoss away from the little river right in front of it. This allowed me to go very, very close and find this composition. I really like the atmosphere and drama in this particular photograph.

This image was taken using the Canon EOS R5 (https://geni.us/jvn-eosr5) and Canon RF 14-35mm RF F/4 (https://geni.us/jvn-rf-14-35mm).

In almost every familiar location, I have set out to find different compositions this summer. It’s a challenge I imposed on myself to try and look differently at locations. This particular scene I had not photographed before and the dramatic mood of the background really added a lot to the feel for me.

This image was taken using the DJI Mavic 3 Pro (https://geni.us/jvn-mavic3pro).

Join A Photo Workshop!

Join me and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey by signing up to a photo workshop in Iceland, Greenland, or another exciting destination. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of these stunning destinations while honing your photography skills. Capture the awe-inspiring beauty of glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and more, under the guidance of experienced photographers.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, these workshops offer a unique opportunity to learn and practice various techniques, including drone photography. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure that combines exploration, education, and the art of photography.

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Previous Participants Shared This About Their Experience…

“

... Jeroen really really knows his stuff, not only about Iceland in general and the specific photo locations but he is also an absolute master with a drone. We were a pretty unexperienced group, regarding drone flying and drone photography and Jeroen helped and pushed us a lot, to really get the best out of our skills, equipment and the locations. I damaged my drone propellers on the third day, forgot the spare and there was no way to organize a replacement. I was really worried i was now missing out, but Jeroens expertise and support gave me confidence to use my drone during the rest of the workshop and there were no issues at all. Additionally his personality and his humor really made this trip and the group special. I highly recommend this workshop!
NicoHighlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (August 2024)

“

I highly recommend taking one of Jeroen's workshops. You can just tell that he has a great passion for leading them. He lives in Iceland and brought a wealth of knowledge and useful facts about the area, and had an answer for just about everything we asked him. He also has a great sense of humor so he made it entertaining as well. Thank you, Jeroen, for a great experience in the Highlands.
Chris G.Highlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (August 2024)

“

Really great trip - I learned a lot and we certainly got to photograph many places that would otherwise be very difficult for me to access. Jeroen and Mads always had answers/suggestions for my questions, and both were instrumental in forming compositions. Many times when we stopped I could not see the principal subject, but a drone would be launched and after watching one of their screens, something amazing would appear. I had never flown a drone before the trip, but Jeroen got me up and running in minutes; he made it very easy and relaxed. Also, my drone had a strange issue on one flight (it would not descend) but Jeroen got it back - flying it for over 2 minutes on no battery. He got it down just before all power was lost. It was wobbly on the way down, but it came down safely. Highly recommend these guys and their trips.
Paul K.Highlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (August 2024)

“

Going to the Icelandic Highlands means you have to know what you’re doing, and you have to be flexible with the ever changing weather. I was so fortunate to attend a workshop with Jeroen, as his expertise and knowledge of the numerous highland locations was critical to knowing where we could go based on the weather, road conditions, and time it would take to get everywhere. Our trip was filled with incredible locations I’ve only dreamed of going to, and many others that I had no idea existed. I’d highly recommend going on a workshop or even a private tour with Jeroen!
Mark S.Highlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (August 2024)

“

The trip I took with Jeroen to the Icelandic Highlands is the most memorable trip I’ve taken since I became serious about photography. It was incredible! Jeroen took us to the places I only dreamed about and never expected to see with my own eyes. Everything was well planned and executed – all we needed to do was concentrating on our photography. Thank you, Jeroen, for such a treat and good luck on all your endeavors!
Svetlana G.Highlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (July 2024)

“

I had a wonderful time at the workshop with Jeroen. Jeroen is a wonderful, very inspiring photographer, an excellent teacher, very sensitive to the beauty of Nature and empathetic, with a refined sense of humor. I felt very taken care of during the workshops and I will definitely come back next year
Doris M.Puffins in the Midnight Sun Photo Workshop (June 2024)

“

I took a 3 day photography workshop with Jeroen to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and had a wonderful experience. Jeroen has an infectious enthusiasm for photography and it really shows in his love of these Icelandic locations and the way he provides instruction on the best perspectives and techniques to get the shots. I appreciate that Jeroen is fully licensed to guide these workshop. This gives me peace of mind knowing that he’s prepared to handle most scenarios that may occur out in the field. Time to save up for my next workshop with Jeroen! Thanks so much, Jeroen!
Jarrick L.Private Workshop in October 2023

“

Well organised workshop with multiple stunning locations providing plenty of opportunities to capture great photos. When the opportunity arose to capture the Northern Lights, Jeroen’s knowledge made sure we were in the right locations to capture the lights at their best. Jeroen was always willing to help and pass on his knowledge to be able to have the best possible composition to capture stunning photos. I can’t thank Jeroen and Mads enough for a great workshop and creating memories that will last a lifetime. I look forward to doing more workshops in the future with Jeroen and highly recommended anyone interested in a photography workshop to do it and learn from the best.
Jordan G.Iceland in Winter Workshop in November 2023

“

I had the privilege of going on the Puffins in the midnight sun workshop which was an amazing experience. Anja and Jeroen were both absolutely amazing hosts and the workshop exceeded my expectations. Both were very approachable with any questions and provided the appropriate level of advice, allowing me to improve my photography.
Jeff M.Puffins in the Midnight Sun Workshop in June 2023

“

In July 2023 I decided to book a 5 days private tour with Jeroen to the highlands. This was a complete different experience. We visited remote and amazing locations, I could not find this locations without Jeroens guidance. Jeroen has a incredible local knowledge, a great enthusiasm, a perfect planning and also very important, a lot of patience. I enjoyed the 5 days with Jeroen very much, he is a very accommodating person with agreat sense of humor. During our tour we had a lot of fun and with his assistance I made my best Iceland shots ever, most of them with my Mavic 3 Pro drone. Thank you very much Jeroen for this unique experience, I hope we will plan the next tour in 2024 together.
Wolfgang S.Private Highlands Workshop in July 2023

“

I really enjoyed guided hike with Jeroen. He knows a lot about the volcanos so you won't have only amazing experience but you can also learn a lot from him. Perfect and easy communication. Thank you again for this "stillcantbelievethatitwasreal" experience!
Veronika S.Private Eruption Hike in August 2023

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… The itinerary was well thought out, but allowed for flexibility of weather conditions and the eruption of Meradalir! Jeroen is knowledgeable, helpful, thoughtful & has a great sense of humour. He regularly checked-in with us to all make sure we were happy and offered assistance in our photography, especially for drones. I felt safe, entertained & learned so much during the workshop. The accommodation & food during the trip were also amazing. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend or attend another workshop.
Rhiannon L.Highlands Photo Workshop in August 2022

“

Greenland 2023 was an incredible experience, in a truly epic location with an amazing group of people. Andy and Jeroen are true professionals in every sense, with a passion for photography that is infectious to the group. I felt challenged to explore styles of photography that pushed the boundaries of my comfort zone, and having their guidance as well as the group to share ideas with helped me grow as a photographer. Andy seems to have a knack for creating an inclusive environment around him that brings the group together, inspires, builds friendships, and elevates the experience to an enjoyable and unforgettable one. Jeroen is very knowledgeable, easy going, and talented photographer and it was a pleasure spending the week with him. I truly cannot recommend highly enough.
Chris D.Greenland Photo Workshop in March 2023

“

… It was one of the most wonderful trips of adventure, exhilaration mixed with wonder and awe of the surrounding beauty. None of that would have been possible without the expert guidance, local knowledge, sense of enthusiasm and detailed planning by Jeroen. We were lucky to him as an expert driver while we wondered over terrain that is unfamiliar to most people, but Jeroen made us feel confidant that we were in safe hands. Moreover his love for photography, landscape and culture of Iceland is contagious and made the trip all the more special. Whether you call him the “Volcano man” or the “drone man” his photography is extraordinary. I would go back in a heartbeat to spend time exploring more of Iceland with him.
Sarfraz D.Highlands Photo Workshop in August 2022

“

… Everything about it was excellent – it is clear that Jeroen puts huge effort into ensuring he provides a first class experience for his participants – the itinerary was thorough, but flexible to get the best out of the weather and volcanic eruption conditions. Jeroen ensures that everybody is safe (important in such an environment) as well as maintaining a pace that works for all. On top of this, his knowledge about Iceland is broad and deep making him an excellent tour guide as well as an accomplished photographer. I can highly recommend a workshop or tour with Jeroen and I do hope that I get to enjoy another workshop with him in the future.
Jon A.Highlands Photo Workshop in August 2022

“

I was fortunate to accompany both Andy Mumford and Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove to Ilulissat, Greenland. I've done guided photography tours before, but this was without a doubt the most enjoyable experience. The comradery of the group combined with the positive attitude and humor of both Andy and Jeroen was fabulous. Lodging + food were a step above what I was expecting and were memorable experiences in and of themselves. Zero regrets and while in Greenland, I discussed what other tours I could add my name onto the waitlist for. Recommended without hesitation.
Michael M.Greenland Photo Workshop in March 2023

“

It became clear that Jeroen is very familiar with the beauty of Iceland, but also with the possible dangers of its natural elements. He took us to the highlights, but also guided us to a number of hidden marvels. And always he knew something interesting to tell about the location. On the creativity side, Jeroen did not intervene at all on location – unless requested for. So we all could explore our own creativity. This definitely tastes for more. And I will definitely call Jeroen again.
Koen D.Private Photography Tour in March 2016

“

It was a pleasure to have a look behind the scences on how Jeroen works. His photos look so natural as he knows where to be in the right place at the right time. I’ve received a lot of professional advice and feedback on how to create stunning landscape images. You did an amazing job and I can’t thank you enough!
Adında M.Private Photography Tour in November 2017

“

... Jeroen has great ability as a teacher as well as a photographer. His priority is the participant, not taking his own pictures. Jeroen is good at checking in with the introvert photographer to make sure they are getting the most from the scene, but without looking over your shoulder. Knowing that group dynamics impacts everyone’s experience, he also builds a camaraderie with his humour and manner.
Stewart L.Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (March 2024)

“

… Imagine being taken to locations so amazing that the erupting volcano wasn’t even one of the top 5. This was an EPIC adventure through a place traversed by few people. We had the guidance and support needed to capture amazing photos and learn to use our drones effectively, incredible food and accommodations, and access to Jeroen’s incredible wealth of knowledge to keep us safe in face of unstable cliffs, weird weather, and other craziness. I can’t wait to join another tour with Jeroen.
Richard S.Highlands Photo Workshop in August 2022

“

If you want to explore Iceland with your camera you’re blessed with a guide like Jeroen. He knows and understands the country so well. He really makes an effort to visit every location at the best possible moment of the day. He knows so many beautiful locations so that he’s also able to improvise when the weather conditions are not that great. He will bring you to lots of beautiful places that are less touristic and where you can take the time to fully explore your camera trying to capture this unique landscape.
Stefaan M.Private Photography Tour in March 2016

“

… And my expectations of his guided tour were indeed the highlight of my short vacation. Not only the sights where breathtaking but also Jeroen’s personal anecdotes and explanation in an easy way over this ever changing landscape building itself was a great surplus to my hiking experience. He is not only passionate about telling you the story behind the views that unfolds before your eyes during the hike, but he lets you also walk at your own pace without looking to his watch as on many other organised larger tours. So folks if you look for an unique guided personal tour, I would really recommend this great guide. From me personally he earns withouth doubt 5* !
John V.Private Guided Eruption Hike in October 2021

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