Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Review: My Wide-Angle Workhorse

Name: Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Review: My Wide-Angle Workhorse
Item: Canon RF 14-35mm f/4L IS USM
Rating: 4.5
Author: Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove

A short little read on why I fell in love with the new Canon RF 14-35mm F4 IS USM L, a brilliant ultra-wide-angle lens. Spoiler alert: I ended up purchasing one!

Before we dive in, I wanted to share that this blog is by no means a technical review of the RF 14-35mm. I merely share my thoughts on why I ended up replacing my Canon EF 16-35mm F2.8L III, which is also a brilliant lens, for something that many would describe as an “inferior” lens due to its more narrow aperture. The Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L has several advantages over it, which I detail in this article. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents Show

Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L wide-angle zoom mounted on a Canon mirrorless body in a gloved hand on the snow.

The Canon RF 14-35mm is has a compact design with an excellent build quality – as you can expect from Canon L series lenses.

Why Change To The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 IS USM L?

As a photographer, I’m pretty much always on the look-out for things that can make my gear lighter and smaller. It’s one of the guidelines I try to live by. Years ago, I used to be that guy who needed to have every lens I might have a use for when being out in the field. I quickly discovered that having such a gear-focused approach didn’t actually improve my photography but instead prevented me from becoming a better photographer. Too much choice in the field can be a bad thing, causing you to lose focus from what’s important: looking around, observing and being creative with what you have.

To tackle this gear-addiction head on, I decided to look at my Lightroom catalog. I wanted measurable data and started checking what apertures and focal lengths I primarily shot at. This allowed me to decide with a clear head what lenses I could get rid of. It’s an exercise I do regularly ever since in order to determine if I can fine-tune my gear to better suit my needs. It’s an exercise I can highly recommend to everyone who is finding themselves in a similar situation! I detailed this in a blog article I published later on after this review was published.

A few weeks ago, I did the exercise again. This time, the data showed me I most often used my wide-angle lens at the widest end. And more importantly, I rarely used the F2.8 aperture – even when photographing the aurora borealis. This begged the question: why drag around a heavy and bulky lens (with an EF-RF adapter) when I was not using the biggest advantage it had? To give it a try, I ended up reaching out to Origo, the Icelandic reseller for Canon, to ask if I could borrow the Canon RF 14-35mm F4 IS USM L (what a mouthful by the way). I had read a lot about the RF 14-35mm already and I was intrigued by its universally-received praise for its design and sharpness.

The diamond beach in Iceland photographed with the Canon RF 14-35mm IS L lens.

Sheets of ice at the Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon in Iceland.

All these images were taken with the Canon RF 14-35mm during the time I tested it.

What I Liked About The Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L

To me, the biggest advantages of the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L are the much wider field of view, the weight and size, the standard 77mm filter thread (no spherical front element), the native RF mount benefits, and the excellent corner-to-corner image sharpness.

Wider Field Of View

The wider field of view is a pretty obvious advantage. During my testing, I managed to get shots I would otherwise not have been able to because of those extra 2mm. Two millimetres honestly doesn’t sound like much, but in landscape work the gap between 16mm and 14mm is genuinely significant. When you’re tight against a cliff edge, shooting in a confined space with limited room to back up, or working an ultra-wide aurora composition where you really want to capture the full arc of the sky, that extra 2mm is often the difference between getting the shot and clipping the corners of what you actually wanted to include. It enabling me to get shots I couldn’t before is a big selling point to me.

Weight And Size

The weight and size are an incredible feat for what the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L offers. Not only is this lens pretty short in comparison to the F2.8 counterparts (both EF and RF), it’s also much lighter. The RF 14-35mm comes in at around 540 grams, compared to roughly 840 grams for the RF 15-35mm F2.8L and around 790 grams for the EF 16-35mm F2.8L III that I was using before. That’s somewhere between 250 and 300 grams off your camera bag, which is genuinely noticeable on a full day of hiking or a long workshop where you’re carrying the camera for hours at a time. And honestly, in the field, I barely notice the lens is on the camera, which is exactly what I want from a wide-angle that’s supposed to disappear into the work.

Standard 77mm Filter Thread

Because the RF 14-35mm doesn’t have a spherical (bulged) front element, you can use regular screw-on filters at even the widest end. The thread takes standard 77mm filters, which means I can share filters across all my L-series lenses, including the Canon RF 100-500mm. Thanks to the in-camera lens corrections applied during post-processing, you also don’t get any meaningful vignetting from filters attached at 14mm, which opens up a lot of possibilities to simplify my process in the field.

This is honestly the feature that made the biggest practical difference in my workflow. Before this lens, I was using the EF-RF drop-in filter adapter with my EF 16-35mm F2.8L III, and the adapter is something I’ve had a love-hate relationship with for some time. I initially loved the idea of it: tiny filters that worked with any EF lens sounded like a dream. But to me, the execution of the idea was very poor. On countless occasions, I accidentally lost a filter because of how easy it was to unlock them. The clamp holding the filters in place isn’t tight enough, causing them to drop out with even the slightest touch. The clamp is also positioned exactly where I most frequently grab my camera from my bag, which only made the problem worse. And because the drop-in adapter doesn’t work with my RF 100-500mm (after I replaced my EF 100-400mm with it), I was already having to maintain two different filter systems anyway.

Going back to standard screw-on filters has been a relief. Same filters across both my main landscape lenses, no fiddly clamp mechanism, and no more lost filters in the bottom of the bag.

Native RF Mount Benefits

Because it’s a native RF lens, you get all the neat Canon mirrorless features that simply don’t exist on adapted EF glass. The big ones for me are seeing the precise focus distance in the EVF, which is genuinely useful when you’re hyperfocal-distance shooting at twilight, and the combined OIS and IBIS stabilisation that works beautifully together. With both systems active, I can routinely handhold this lens at 1/4 of a second at 14mm and get sharp results.

You also get the in-camera lens correction profile that handles vignetting and any minor distortion automatically, which is part of why filters at 14mm don’t introduce dark corners. The native RF protocol communicates faster too, which translates into snappier focus acquisition, especially in low light. It’s the kind of difference you don’t really appreciate until you go back to an adapted EF lens and notice everything is just slightly slower.

Image Sharpness Across The Frame

Image sharpness on the RF 14-35mm is honestly one of the best I’ve seen on an ultra-wide zoom. Corner-to-corner performance is excellent across the entire focal range, which is genuinely a step up from older Canon ultra-wides like the EF 16-35mm F2.8L III. The corners hold up well even wide open at F4, which matters more than you’d think for landscape work, because landscape compositions tend to live and die by what’s happening in the edges of the frame.

Centre sharpness is pretty much a given on any modern L-series lens. Corner sharpness is where lenses actually separate themselves. After four years with this one, I haven’t once looked at a shot and wondered if the corners were the weak point. That’s a high bar for any zoom, and especially for one at this focal length.

Wide-angle view of Miðfoss waterfall flowing between snowy banks under a pink winter sunset in Iceland.

The Canon RF 14-35mm has excellent corner-to-corner sharpness.

Sunrise alpenglow on Eystrahorn with waves washing over dark rocks on Iceland's south-east coast.

Silhouetted figure standing behind a curtain of water in a cave at Kvernufoss, lit by morning sun.

What I Didn’t Like About The Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L (Or Did I?)

Initially, I was very sceptical about the fact the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L didn’t have an F2.8 aperture. The primary reason for scepticism is that I often photograph at night to capture the aurora borealis. That means it’s pretty engraved in my brain that I must have the biggest possible aperture. But is that still true with how good camera sensors have become in high ISO conditions? Is that one stop of extra light really impactful for my kind of photography and worth the extra money?

During my time testing the lens, I got an excellent opportunity to try out the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L in those nightly conditions. A G1 geomagnetic storm was forecasted and produced strong northern lights. Essentially the kind of aurora I would usually try and photograph. Being located in Iceland, I have the perk of being able to choose when I go out to photograph the aurora so I almost never go when the activity isn’t great. I think that’s important to know because if you’re travelling to photograph the aurora and have to take the conditions as they are, you might have a different experience.

Long story short: the northern lights were such a treat to photograph with the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L – even with an almost full moon. Combined with my EOS R6, I was pretty comfortable shooting at night using ISO 3200. Even ISO 6400 still gives very nice results with the RF 14-35mm. It’s such a difference with how I would normally stop down to F2.8 to keep the ISO as low as possible on my old DSLR. ISO 6400 was unthinkable in such dark conditions. This, combined with a crispy sharp RF 14-35mm, makes for great results.

Pairing this lens with a properly configured landscape custom mode means I can be ready to shoot the aurora in seconds; I’ve written a separate post on my custom mode setup that covers exactly how I have C1, C2, and C3 configured for fast switching.

Truth be told, in general, I had a VERY hard time finding anything substantially wrong with the Canon RF 14-35mm. The images are sharp corner to corner (much sharper than my F2.8 lens) and combined with a good capable sensor in low light, there’s nothing to dislike about it in my workflow.

Bright green aurora pillar over a car and silhouetted photographers on a snowy road in Iceland.

Photographers with tripods watching a sprawling aurora display behind their SUV on a snowy track in Iceland.

I have used the Canon RF 14-35mm for night photography with excellent results.

Conclusion: Does The Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L Fit My Workflow Better?

I can safely say the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L fits my workflow really well. That’s why I went ahead and bought one for myself as soon as I returned the borrowed one (my F2.8 wide-angle lens is currently on the market). Everything about the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L fits better into my workflow than my F2.8 lens. The greater field of view of the RF 14-35mm, the increased sharpness, the excellent stabilisation combined with my Canon mirrorless bodies (currently the Canon EOS R6 Mark III and Canon EOS R5 Mark II), … Even the extra room in my bag is a welcome addition (room for a backup body now?). Maybe the lack of a bigger aperture is too big of a compromise for you but for me the trade-off doesn’t weigh up to all the extra advantages it brings.

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, quality, ultra-wide-angle lens, I can highly recommend the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L. For the long end of the same kit, see my Canon RF 100-500mm review.

Buy the Canon RF 14-35mm IS USM L: https://geni.us/jvn-rf-14-35mm

Disclaimer: when you make a purchase using the link in this article, Jeroen may earn a small commission.

FAQ

Is The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Good For Landscape Photography?

Yes, it’s excellent for landscape work. The ultra-wide 14mm end gives you compositions that wouldn’t be possible at 16mm, the corner-to-corner sharpness is impressive even at the wide end, and the combined OIS and IBIS stabilisation makes handheld twilight work genuinely viable. This is the wide lens I’ve used for almost all my serious landscape work for the past four years.

Is The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Good For Aurora And Astrophotography?

Yes, despite the F4 aperture. I was initially sceptical about the loss of one stop compared to F2.8, but modern camera sensors handle high ISOs well enough that the difference is functionally invisible in practice. I’ve shot strong aurora displays in Iceland on this lens and the results have been excellent.

Canon RF 14-35mm F4 vs RF 15-35mm F2.8: Which Should I Buy?

The F2.8 makes sense if you photograph fast-moving subjects in low light where one stop matters and you don’t mind the extra weight and cost. For everyone else, the F4 is the better choice: lighter, smaller, sharper at common landscape apertures, an extra 2mm of width at the wide end, and standard 77mm filter compatibility. I switched from F2.8 to F4 and don’t miss the stop.

Is The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Sharp In The Corners?

Yes. Corner-to-corner sharpness is one of the lens’s standout features, and one of the genuine improvements over older ultra-wide zooms. Even wide open at F4, the corners hold up well across the focal range, which matters more than centre sharpness for landscape work.

What Filter Size Does The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Use?

The RF 14-35mm F4 L uses standard 77mm screw-in filters. This is a meaningful advantage over the F2.8 versions of Canon’s ultra-wide zooms, which use bulged front elements and require either drop-in filters or specialised holders. With the 77mm thread, you can share filters across most of Canon’s L-series lenses.

Does The Canon RF 14-35mm F4 L Work Well With The Canon EOS R6 Mark III?

Yes, the pairing is excellent. The RF 14-35mm and the R6 Mark III together make a lightweight, capable landscape setup, and this was my go-to wide-angle combination throughout my recent trips to Antarctica and Madeira. The R6 Mark III’s 8.5-stop IBIS combined with the lens’s OIS makes handheld work at slow shutter speeds genuinely consistent.

Discover Jeroen’s Photo Workshops in Iceland, Greenland & Beyond

Ready to take your photography to the next level? Join me, Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove, on unforgettable photo workshops in Iceland, Greenland, Antarctica and other exciting destinations. Whether your passion is wildlife photography, bird photography, landscape adventures, or mastering drone photography, each workshop is designed to give you hands-on guidance in some of the world’s most spectacular locations.

From puffins in the midnight sun to Arctic foxes in the wild, from glaciers and volcanoes to dramatic coastlines seen by drone – these journeys are more than workshops; they’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Group sizes are kept small, ensuring personal mentoring and plenty of shooting opportunities.

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Explore all upcoming photography workshops with Jeroen and take your skills to the next level in some of the world’s most extraordinary locations. From the volcanic landscapes of Iceland to the ice-filled fjords of Greenland and the wildlife-rich polar regions such as Antarctica, each workshop is designed to help you grow creatively while experiencing unforgettable moments in the field. Browse all upcoming departures below and find your next adventure!

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Puffins in the Midnight Sun 2026 Photo Workshop

16/06/2026 - 22/06/2026

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01/08/2026 - 08/08/2026

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Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands 2026 (13-20 August) Photo Workshop

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Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands 2026 (22-29 August) Photo Workshop

22/08/2026 - 29/08/2026

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East Greenland Photo Expedition 2026

31/08/2026 - 07/09/2026

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East Greenland With James Popsys 2026 Photo Workshop

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Autumn in West/North Iceland 2026 (with Mads) Photo Workshop

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Iceland in Winter 2026 Photo Workshop (with Mads Peter Iversen)

15/11/2026 - 23/11/2026

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Antarctica & South Georgia Photo Expedition 2028

27/02/2028 - 17/03/2028

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What Previous Participants Shared About Their Experience

Choosing the right photography workshop is about more than just visiting iconic locations. It’s about experience, safety, timing, and personal guidance. Below you’ll find honest reviews from photographers who have joined me on landscape, wildlife & drone photo workshops in Iceland, Greenland and other locations. These testimonials reflect real experiences in small groups, hands-on instruction in challenging conditions, and the level of care Jeroen aims to bring to every workshop.

“

I spent 8 days on a workshop led by Jeroen to Western Greenland. My experience was absolutely delightful from end to end. Given the limited infrastructure in Greenland, Jeroen as a planner had anticipated so many "what ifs" that he always had an alternative plan if/when something came up. His attention to all the details for our trip was amazing. The accommodations, food, transportation, and activities were all superb. As a teacher he was patient and supportive. He also worked hard to create unique photographic opportunities for us - both landscape and wildlife. His passion and enthusiasm is infectious, as is his sense of humor. As a woman in my 60's, I always felt so safe with him as our leader. I also spent a day with him up in the highlands of Iceland where he worked tirelessly to put us in the best position(s) and in the best light and helped me capture the most insane landscape shots with my new drone. Jeroen is a wonderful human being and great fun to be with. I definitely plan to go on another of his fabulous workshops in the near future!
Miranda D.West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2025)

“

Just returned from Winter in Iceland 2025. The trip was fantastic. Great group of people. Very nice accommodations and meals and most importantly excellent photographic locations. Well thought out and planned. Excellent packing list provided (yes, you do need wellies). Jeroen is an amazing host with a great sense of humour. He was extremely helpful with my photography in addition to navigating us safely from the various locations. He kept a watchful eye over my shoulder to provide valuable tips and suggestions. Jeroen is a 5 star host. Highly recommend him.
Stephen A.Winter in Iceland (November 2025)

“

I brought my drone to Iceland for the winter workshop and had no confidence flying it. By the end of the trip I was flying it by myself and capturing amazing photos and videos. Grateful to Jeroen for his patience and instruction to make both my photography and my trip a success!
Maura C.Winter in Iceland (November 2025)

“

Jeroen puts on a first class workshop. His drone coaching alone brings tremendous value. Unlike the saturated and competitive land based photography market, great drone/aerial photography instruction is hard to come by. In just a few days I learned new skills, pushed my personal envelope and gained a new level of confidence. That said, the land based opportunity was available all day, every day. The full agenda hit amazing waterfalls and iconic locations. Both Jeroen and Mads were readily available to assist at any level catering to both the professional and those with less experience. Most importantly, the trip was fun, upbeat and positive , even on those few days the weather didn't cooperate. The hotels were super comfortable and the food was great. If looking for a workshop from a local pro with local knowledge, I highly recommend taking one with Jeroen.
David R.Autumn in West/North Iceland (October 2025)

“

I attended Jeroen's Autumn in West/North Iceland Photo Workshop and couldn't be more pleased. In addition to being a world class camera and drone photographer, Jeroen excels at guiding a group tour. He did an excellent job in managing the logistics of the workshop and had the perfect balance of offering photo suggestions without being condescending. I look forward to attending another of his workshops in the near future.
John H.Autumn in West/North Iceland (October 2025)

“

I can't say enough about the fantastic time my son and I had with Jeroen! I had taken his Masterclass on drone photography and then booked a personal tour/class while visiting Iceland. I learned so much between the Masterclass and the tour. Especially regarding the capabilities of my drone and how to handle it when flying in adverse conditions! If you can't make it to Iceland check out his drone Masterclass! You won't be sorry!
Larry R.Private Photography Day Tour (September 2025)

“

Fantastic workshop in West Greenland! Very well organized and planned to make the most of an epic photography journey in this unbelievable polar enviroment. All was great, from accommodation, to food, and to all the locations we visited, between icebergs, glaciers, and small local village and settlements. I have to thank Jeroen and Mads for their great work. Apart from being exceptional photographers and share their knowledge to us, they really made their best to give us a truly enjoyable and amazing experience. As a group, it was really great fun to expend time with other committed and passionate photographers, and, above all, very nice people.
Ivan S.West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2025)

“

Ten Stars. OK, Twenty Stars. A phenomenal journey and experience. Jeroen was beyond my expectations. Way beyond. His knowledge of the area Western Greenland) and photography (drones and camera) was superb. I highly recommend any trip with Jeroen. Seriously. Just go. You won't regret it.
Robert M.West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2025)

“

Going the Extra Mile... This was the second of Jeroen’s drone workshops I have attended. That in itself should tell you how good he is. This workshop was held under the most difficult conditions, with the aftermath of hurricane Erin sweeping across Iceland, resulting in very high winds, rain and road closures. Despite that, not a minute of our time in Iceland was wasted, as Jeroen took us from one superb location to another, flexing plans around the weather. Flying drones in high winds and rain can be difficult, but Jeroen’s expertise made us all feel calm and able to fly anywhere. If it wasn’t enough to find suitable locations in the worst of conditions, Jeroen also drove a 7-hour round trip to get a replacement drone when mine fell out of the sky. The only way Jeroen can now improve is to reach god status, so he can control the weather too. What an experience. Thank you Jeroen.
Paul G.Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands (August 2025)

“

The 'Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands' (22-29 Aug '25) was my second drone trip with Jeroen. Despite the very challenging weather conditions, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Erin over Iceland, it was a superb week. Jeroen is a first-class tour leader who not only gets you to the 'right place at the right time' but he also provides excellent guidance and gives you a great deal of confidence for drone flying. He's raised my skill set substantially. On arriving at a location, Jeroen will fly his drone to highlight the possible landscape opportunities (most of which cannot be seen at ground level). He then supports you during flights and is always on hand in case of any difficulties. Jeroen really goes the extra mile to make sure that everyone in the group gets the best experience possible. I enjoyed this second trip with Jeroen so much that I will be booking another.
Milt I.Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands (August 2025)

“

Jeroen is a top-notch pro photographer and will be my go-to for any future photo workshops I do in Iceland/Greenland. Don't hesitate to sign up for any of his workshops. He's legit. I've been with him on 2 photo trips now, and I'm sure I'll be on more in the future!
Paul O.East Greenland Sailboat Photo Expedition (August 2025)

“

Jeroen really cares about the experience that you have on his workshops. He has impeccable organisation and communication prior to and during the workshop. Jeroen actively sought feedback afterwards, which demonstrates to me that he is constantly working towards providing the best experience for participants. He handled one difficult situation that came up unexpectedly on this trip with grace and made sure the impact of this on the group was minimal. The photographic opportunities we had in East Greenland were incredible. As a total newbie to drone flying, I felt supported and encouraged to venture out of my comfort zone and as a result, I learned so much and captured some amazing photos that I am really proud of. The crew of the boat was fantastic, making sure we were safe and comfortable at all times. The food was excellent. All of these little touches curated by Jeroen made this workshop an incredible experience beyond taking photos.
Michele M.East Greenland Photo Expedition (August 2025)

“

Just finished my third workshop with Jeroen on a sail boat in East Greenland. Again a fantastic experience. These workshops aren't only about improving my drone and photography skills, but I also learn about exciting parts of the world. Since my last two workshops, I have continued to explore the places that Jeroen first showed me. This might not be so easy in East Greenland! Again, I highly recommend Jeroen's workshops - they are probably some of the best available.
Jon A.East Greenland Sailboat Photo Expedition (August 2025)

“

Just returned from back to back workshops with Jeroen (Aerials and East Greenland) and can highly recommend his workshops! I appreciate how he provides highlights of each photo location and is consistently asking “how are you doing”. Staff and food on the Greenland sailboat was outstanding! Finally, he makes the trips fun! I will attend more!
Alan B.Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Drone Photo Workshop (August 2025)

“

I've been on a couple of workshop with Jeroen before, and I keep doing more and will continue to do more. Simply put: my favorite photos I've ever taken have been on workshops with him. His knowledge of the weather and environmental conditions, various compositions to try, and the area we are shooting help ensure that you are taking photos you can be proud of when you get back home. He is always helpful and goes out of his way to check in with you to make sure you're getting the shot. Also, as a bonus, he is incredibly funny and there are always lots of laughs on these workshops. Can't wait for our next one!
Heather H.Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Drone Photo Workshop (August 2025)

“

Just got back from an incredible drone photography workshop in Iceland with JVN Photography, and wow—what an experience! Jeroen, our fearless leader, made the whole trip a blast with his great sense of humor and awesome teaching style. He was always checking in, making sure we were safe and confident while flying our drones (even when the wind was doing its best to carry us away!). One wild day we found ourselves in a full-on sandstorm, and I’ll admit—I was totally freaked out. But with Jeroen’s encouragement, I stepped out of the car, faced the storm, and ended up capturing some of my favorite shots of the trip. I learned so much, had tons of fun, and would 100% recommend this workshop to anyone wanting to level up their drone photography in one of the most stunning places on Earth. Thanks, Jeroen!
Carrie C.Aerials of the Icelandic Highlands Drone Photo Workshop (July 2025)

“

My dad and I just returned from the BEST arctic fox adventure in Hornstrandir Nature Reserve with Jeroen. Jeroen made a comment at the beginning of our trip that stuck with me. He said that even though this is a photography workshop, the experience of everything is what it is all about, and the photos we hoped to take were the icing on the cake. That could not have been more accurate. "Living" with the foxes, the friendships we made, the moments we experienced together and alone with our furry friends, the knowledge and expertise gained, being off the grid, and some epic photo moments made this trip an incredible and memorable adventure of a lifetime. I would sign up for every upcoming workshop Jeroen has on the books if I could and I will certainly be back for more.
Megan G.Arctic Foxes in Hornstrandir Photo Workshop (June 2025)

“

After spending a week in the magnificent Hornstrandir Nature Reserve alongside Jeroen and seven other passionate photographers, I return home with a head full of magical memories. Taking part in a workshop with Jeroen is more than just a photographic journey — it’s a deeply human experience. With his professionalism, deep knowledge, and unmistakable sense of humor, he creates a warm, welcoming, and cohesive atmosphere for everyone involved. Jeroen is also incredibly attentive and thoughtful. Always approachable and available, he takes time for everyone, offering guidance, answering questions, and encouraging without ever being overbearing. Photographing Arctic foxes in the raw and untouched beauty of Hornstrandir was an unforgettable experience. We were incredibly lucky to encounter several of them, including their cubs — a rare and precious privilege I’ll never forget. If you're passionate about photography and want to discover Iceland in a truly unique way, I wholeheartedly recommend Jeroen’s workshops. You won’t regret it.
Valentin R.Arctic Foxes in Hornstrandir Photo Workshop (June 2025)

“

I highly recommend Jeroen for anyone seeking a top-tier workshop or private photography tour experience. His organizational skills are exceptional—he carefully plans every detail, from tailored itineraries to seamless logistics, ensuring that each session runs smoothly and meets the unique interests of his clients. His deep knowledge of photography, local culture, and hidden locations provides participants with both technical growth and memorable adventures.
Beyond his expertise, his warm personality, sense of humor, and excellent communication skills make every workshop engaging and enjoyable. He listens to participants’ needs, remains patient and positive, and fosters a supportive learning environment. If you’re looking for a knowledgeable, personable, and highly organized photographer, you won’t find anyone better than Jeroen.
Tomas A.Puffins in the Midnight Sun Photo Workshop (June 2025)

“

I have just returned from a photography workshop organised by Jeroen on the Isle of Grimsey. I am very impressed by his personality - he is able to provide a great atmosphere in the team and make everyone feel at ease. The workshops are perfectly organized, from the first e-mail contacts to the farewell at the airport. Jeroen has a very individual approach to each participant, he is able to politely point out mistakes and, above all, show how to fix them. Critical sessions are real photography workshops, I learned a lot from them and all this in a very nice and friendly atmosphere. The entire week-long stay on Grimsey Island was prepared very professionally, including the optimal weather. I highly recommend workshops with Jeroen, especially if someone is looking for a great teacher, guide or friend in one person.
Ewa S.Puffins in the Midnight Sun Photo Workshop (June 2025)

“

I am delighted to recommend Jeroen for his exceptional leadership and expertise in conducting photography workshops.
I recently had the privilege of participating in a photo workshop in Greenland lead by Jeroen, and I can say without reservations that he has a rare blend of photographic talent and organizational prowess. Jeroen is a master photographer, and generously shares this knowledge with workshop participants. Whether it's mastering the technical aspects of photography or exploring creative compositions, Jeroen provides invaluable insights that elevate the skills of all the participants. His meticulous planning and organizational skills are unmatched; the workshop was flawlessly executed, with every detail thoughtfully considered. He fostered a collaborative environment where participants felt free to ask questions, experiment, and learn from one another; always providing positive feedback and encouragement. I wholeheartedly recommend Jeroen for any photography workshop or related endeavor. His passion for photography, attention to detail, and outgoing personality, make him an outstanding leader.
Tomas A.West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2024)

“

Jeroen’s and Mads’ West Greenland Workshop was simply the best photo workshop I’ve ever attended. The days were full from dawn to dusk and even later for nioghtime photography. Jeroen and Mads made themselves available during any free time for coaching, editing and general questions. They focused on hands on coaching for each of us in the field. Workshop logistics were seamless, transport via coaches and boats were in good condition with competent crews and were ready when scheduled, accommodations were very good. I look forward to joining Jeroen and Mads again in the future.
Kelly E.West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2024)

“

I had the pleasure of being part of a Highlands workshop in August with Jeroen and Mads Peter Iversen as photo guides and professionals. I had already met them both on a workshop in Antarctica. The small group was perfect for guidance and attention. It is now sinking in how much I learned on this trip and how breathtaking Iceland is. We encountered some strong winds, rain and fog. Nevertheless, Jeroen found alternatives and safety was always paramount. He’s a conscientious guy and can be seriously funny too. Not only did our group gain knowledge, we had a lot of fun. Thanks for a memorable week to everyone on this workshop. I’d recommend Jeroen without hesitation.
Cindy B.Highlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (August 2024)

“

I was recently on an Iceland Highlands photo tour, my first trip with Jeroen. It will not be my last! It exceeded my expectations to the point that I've now booked a trip next year with Jeroen. My priority was to learn how to fly my new drone (Mavic 3 Classic) for quality stills photography. I started the trip with 'drone anxiety' and ended with confidence and a new set of skills in aerial photography. Jeroen's drone flying skills are impressive. But, importantly, he puts his clients first. He gives full support, both in terms of the essential skills needed to fly a drone safely, and also the skills needed to produce quality images. Jeroen's knowledge of Iceland and its hidden beauties, his organisational skills and photography expertise is second to none. I'm certainly looking forward to travelling with him again.
Milt I.Highlands of Iceland Photo Workshop (August 2024)

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... 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

“

Worked with Jeroen during a photo tour of Iceland and had a fantastic experience. Jeroen is a great photographer, a great instructor, an organized and conscientious tour guide, and is a lot of fun to spend time with. I very much appreciate his love of Iceland and its geology and nature. Highly recommended.
Art J.Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (March 2025)

“

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

“

Somehow five stars doesn’t seem sufficient! What an amazing week with Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove and Mads Peter Iversen in one of the most photogenic locations I have ever visited. Nothing challenges an organiser’s ability like a cancelled flight, but even though we were delayed by a day in Reykjavik, Jeroen managed to pack in all the planned activities in to the remaining 5 days, starting with a six hour sunset boat trip through the magnificent bergs of the ice fjord. And that was just the start, every day there were new adventures and new locations. With so much to photograph, we all called on the expert guidance by Jeroen and Mads - from finding pleasing compositions in the chaos of the ice or life in the tiny settlements, to aerial HDR panoramas with the drones - the boys were always on hand to offer advice and suggestions (and to rescue my drone as I tried to land it where our boat had been 20 minutes earlier)!
Adrian V.West Greenland Photo Workshop (September 2024)

“

Absolutely top notch workshop. The thought and effort that went into the schedule and the accommodations made the trip, the shots and the experience simply amazing. Jeroen and Mads were great Pro Guides, sharing their expertise and offering guidance whenever asked making sure that we had the best opportunity to capture great photographs. They were fun, personable, and such great teammates, it made for such a wonderful week. Highly recommend!
Denise B.Winter in Iceland Photo Workshop (December 2024)

“

Value & Safety. If you are wanting to tour Iceland, Jeroen is your guy! Knowledgeable, capable, and kind, this guy has your best experience in mind. I spent a week visiting some EPIC locations under his guidance and it is well worth the money!
Robert W.Winter in Iceland Photo Workshop (December 2024)

“

I recommend this wonderful photography workshop. In just a few days I understood how to improve my skills and where to point the lens. Jaroen is an excellent, patient and attentive teacher who shares his knowledge, adapting it to each participant individually.
Elzbieta G.Puffins in the Midnight Sun Photo Workshop (June 2025)

“

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

“

… 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

“

Jeroen was a huge part of what made this trip so successful. His local knowledge, adaptability to changing weather conditions (gale force winds and blizzards to warm, springlike days) and relationships with local providers made the trip an absolute pleasure. From the first evening meeting in Reykjavik to the final dinner everything proceeded without a noticeable hitch. The privilege of spending almost five hours exploring ice caves, coming face to face with Arctic Foxes and experiencing an amazing aurora display made the trip one for the record books. Such a smooth operation does not happen without a significant amount of pre-planning and the selection of hotels, shooting locations and restaurant stops showed that all eventualities had been considered. We were so engrossed in shooting that a scheduled critique session had to be postponed to a post trip online meeting - again showing Jeroen's commitment to the satisfaction of his clients. In short - I can highly recommend a workshop with Jeroen and hope to be a part of many future trips.
John M.Iceland in Winter Photo Workshop (March 2025)

These reviews are verifiable on Jeroen’s public Google Business profile.

Group of photographers silhouetted on a snowy headland watching icebergs at sunset in Greenland.

Workshop group photographing Hraunfossar in the rain on Iceland's west coast.

Photographers gathered at the Ilulissat Icefjord on a West Greenland workshop

Workshop guests reviewing photos around a kitchen table at a Hornstrandir guesthouse, Iceland.

Hands holding a DJI drone remote controller showing the live feed of a glacier in Iceland.

Group of photographers on a hillside photographing distant peaks in the Icelandic Highlands.

Photographer using a tripod in the surf at sunrise on Iceland's south coast.

Workshop group posing on the deck of a sailboat in Scoresbysund fjord, East Greenland.

Photo workshop group reviewing camera settings with a guide in the Icelandic Highlands.

Photographer on a boardwalk next to a docked boat with icebergs at sunset in Greenland.

Workshop group reviewing photos on a laptop and TV during an editing session at an Iceland lodge.

Drone workshop group posing with controllers in front of a mossy hillside in the Icelandic Highlands.

Workshop group celebrating in front of a guesthouse in Hornstrandir, Iceland.

Jeroen helping a workshop guest review images on the back of their camera aboard a polar ship.

Workshop group on the bow of a small Greenland boat with a large iceberg in the background.

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6 Comments

Andrew says:

December 28, 2025 at 2:58 am

Great post and AMAZING aurora shots.

I am mostly a travel and street photographer, and I bought this lens for much the same reason you did; the combination of light weight and the versatility of 14mm with regular filters.

This lens and the also light weight RF 50mm f/1.4 VCM can cover literally 90% of anything I’d ever want to photograph.

- Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove says:
  
  December 28, 2025 at 9:19 am
  
  Thank you! It’s an excellent lens which I still use today.
  
Mark Early says:

July 1, 2025 at 8:26 pm

Informative and well crafted review. Also much appreciated that reading your thoughts helps me face my own inner gear-head nature. A digital photography instructor mentioned years ago: the most important tool all photographers have – your mobility, … walk around and see your subject from many perspectives, before falling in love with just one view.

Robert T Joaquin says:

March 11, 2025 at 7:58 pm

Hi Jerome thanks for your insights about buying expensive gears
Somehow I thought that will help me get the right & best photos. I believe cameras and lenses are tools to help us makes some how a better photographer
I also one of the gearaholic who keeps buying the best equipment but in the end didn’t use them all due to limited vacations/places to shoot
I guess if we “mastered “ our equipment we could do better rather than relying on reviews by others ( that’s my opinion & thought on offense thanks)

Chuck Slater says:

December 25, 2024 at 8:09 pm

I think you convinced me to consider a new lens. I take a lot of photos deep in the Florida Everglades where there is lots of foliage and not a lot of empty space. It’s easy to loose detail. This may solve my problem.
Thanks for the nice article.

David L Lee says:

June 12, 2024 at 10:05 pm

WOW do I get to be the first replay :)))
Anyway I wanted to say GREAT post. This is the same path that I started down a few years ago but my Canon start was back in 60’s with a Canon FT. I also LOVE my RF 14-35 🙂 I had to save a bit to get it, this is a hobby for me at this time I was an Engineer. And you must know that old story about a Happy Wife 🙂