13 Breathtaking Photography Spots in Iceland (No 4x4 Needed!)

Planning a photography trip to Iceland but want to avoid the rugged Highland routes? You're in luck. Iceland is packed with jaw-dropping photo opportunities you can easily access without a 4-wheel drive. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, or otherworldly glacial landscapes, these 13 locations offer some of the best places to photograph in Iceland—all reachable by paved or well-maintained roads.

These iconic (and lesser-known) stops are perfect for travel photographers, landscape lovers, and adventurers armed with a camera and a passion for natural beauty.

1. Arnarstapi Harbour

Located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Arnarstapi is a coastal village with towering sea cliffs, dramatic basalt formations, and a charming harbor. The walking trail from Arnarstapi to Hellnar offers panoramic ocean views, rugged lava fields, and the famous Gatklettur Arch Rock. Come at sunrise or golden hour to capture the magical interplay of light and sea spray. Arnarstapi is one of the best places for Snæfellsnes Peninsula photo spots and a must for coastal cliffs photography in Iceland.

2. Kirkjufell

Arguably the most photographed mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell rises like a perfect pyramid near the town of Grundarfjörður. Pair the iconic Kirkjufell mountain with the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall for a dreamlike composition. It’s especially magical in winter with the Northern Lights dancing overhead or during summer’s midnight sun. This is one of the best Iceland photo locations and should be on every travel photographer’s list.

3. Seljalandsfoss

Just off the Ring Road, Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most unique waterfalls because you can walk behind it. That 360-degree view offers tons of creative framing opportunities for dramatic waterfall photography. Bring rain gear—your camera and clothes will thank you. Seljalandsfoss is one of the best waterfalls you can walk behind in Iceland and a popular stop for Ring Road photography.

4. Skógafoss

Massive, powerful, and easy to access, Skógafoss is a must-shoot location for any Iceland itinerary. On sunny days, rainbows often form in the mist, creating perfect moments for color-rich images. Climb the staircase for a bird’s-eye perspective—or stay low for that powerful face-on waterfall shot. It’s one of the most iconic Iceland waterfalls and a top Instagram spot in the country.

5. Kvernufoss

Just around the corner from Skógafoss lies Kvernufoss—one of Iceland’s most underrated photo spots. A short walk through a quiet canyon leads to this hidden gem. You can walk behind the falls just like at Seljalandsfoss, but with far fewer people. Personally, I enjoyed photographing Kvernufoss even more than its famous neighbor. It’s one of the best secret Iceland photo locations and an amazing Skógafoss nearby detour.

6. Hálsanefshellir Cave (Reynisfjara Beach)

This dramatic sea cave made of basalt columns is located at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach near Vik. The cave frames your subject beautifully, whether it's crashing waves, towering cliffs, or the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks in the distance. Be extremely cautious here—sneaker waves are a serious danger. Hálsanefshellir Cave is perfect for basalt cave photography and one of the best Reynisfjara beach photo spots.

7. Gígjagjá (Yoda Cave)

Hidden just off the main road near Hjörleifshöfði, this lava cave earned the nickname "Yoda Cave" for its iconic shape. Step inside and shoot from within the dark chamber out toward the entrance for a dramatic, cinematic effect. It’s relatively unknown, so you might get it all to yourself. Gígjagjá is a must for those looking to explore lava caves in Iceland and find unique, off-the-path photo opportunities.

8. Svartifoss

Located in Skaftafell National Park, Svartifoss ("Black Falls") is known for the geometric basalt columns that surround the waterfall like a cathedral. The hike up is moderate and takes about 45 minutes one way, but it's well worth it. Early morning or cloudy days are best to avoid harsh shadows. Svartifoss is one of the top basalt column waterfalls and a premier spot for hiking photography in Iceland.

9. Svínafellsjökull

This accessible glacier tongue near Skaftafell offers surreal textures, icy crevasses, and powerful blue tones—perfect for abstract photography or wide-angle landscapes. No glacier hike required—just walk up the path to the viewpoint or carefully explore the area around the base. Svínafellsjökull is ideal for capturing stunning Iceland glacier photos and Skaftafell landscapes.

10. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

One of Iceland’s most famous and photogenic stops, Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs and occasionally lounging seals. Just across the road is Diamond Beach, where chunks of glacier ice wash up on black sand—nature’s most photogenic contrast. Sunrise or sunset light makes the ice glow. This is one of the best places for iceberg photography in Iceland and an iconic stop for any landscape photographer.

11. Stokksnes & Vestrahorn

Vestrahorn mountain reflects in the wet black sands of Stokksnes beach like a mirror. Add in dramatic dunes and moody clouds and you have one of Iceland’s most cinematic photo locations. There is a small entrance fee to access the private road, but it's absolutely worth it. Vestrahorn and Stokksnes offer some of the most epic black sand beach photography in Iceland and are top-tier landscape photo spots.

12. Hengifoss

This tall, narrow waterfall is layered with red volcanic strata, making it one of the most visually unique falls in Iceland. It’s about a 2.5 km hike uphill, but the trail also offers views of another waterfall, Litlanesfoss, surrounded by basalt columns. A drone can really show off the layering from above. Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss make for some of the most striking East Iceland photography opportunities.

13. Stuðlagil Canyon

Located in East Iceland, Stuðlagil Canyon boasts turquoise waters surrounded by towering basalt columns. For the best views, cross the bridge and hike to the canyon floor. Summer offers the bluest water, especially when the dam upstream isn’t diverting flow. It's a bit out of the way, but easy to reach on a paved road. Stuðlagil is one of the best drone spots in Iceland and a stunning East Iceland basalt canyon to photograph.

Final Tips for Your Iceland Photography Trip

• Summer offers long daylight hours and lush greens, while winter brings snow and auroras.

• Always check the road conditions and weather before heading out (especially in shoulder seasons).

• Respect nature: stay on paths, leave no trace, and watch out for rapidly changing weather.

For more photography tips and travel guides, check out the rest of my blog or follow my Iceland adventures on Instagram.