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Iceland Elopement Wedding: A Honestly written experience from Scottish Wedding Photographer

As a Scottish Wedding Photographer, I imagined the Iceland Elopement Wedding experience would resemble Scotland. A Highland winter can be harsh. But how little I knew! The wedding photography retreat “A Kind of Magic” organised by Magic Wedding Photographer was a one-of-a-kind experience. Our base was located on the south part of the island, and photography locations were carefully picked by the local photographer and our guide – Kaja Balejko. Iceland is a big island, days were short in November.

I’d like to share a glimpse of the Iceland elopement wedding experience from this early winter photography workshop, based on the south Iceland part.

Iceland Elopement Wedding is brutally beautiful

Iceland elopement wedding is a breathtakingly beautiful yet challenging experience. If couples decide to elope in the winter, they must consider the harsh weather conditions, unpredictable storms, and limited daylight (only 4-5 hours in November – December, which require careful planning. However, the breathtaking landscapes, running waterfalls, and the chance to see the Northern Lights make it feel like a true fairytale.

If you’re adventurous and willing to embrace the cold with all the elements, winter in Iceland offers an unparalleled sense of intimacy and – magic. Just be prepared with proper winter gear, flexible travel plans, and a local guide to navigate unpredictable conditions. If you dream of a truly unique, dramatic wedding experience, a winter elopement in Iceland could be the perfect adventure.

Iceland Elopement Wedding Skogafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss Waterfall

South of the island is well known for breathtaking waterfalls. First on the map location was the iconic Skógafoss. This waterfall is truly magnificent. Our group arrived in the late morning. The waterfall base was already populated with people admiring the brutal force of Skógafoss. Moisture created by tons of water splashing made cameras wet quickly and lenses struggle to auto-focus. Never mind our photography gear. Our lovely couple – Kim and Denham were soaking wet and the day was early! Iceland Elopement Wedding Experience started with cold moisture for all of us.

Kvernufoss

The little less popular Kvernufoss waterfall, just a ten-minute drive from Skógafoss is another belter for an elopement session. A thundering force of falls rushing over sheer, moss-covered cliffs and splashing on rocks with loud noise is another challenge for the wedding photographers and the couple. But gosh, a creative photographer’s mind can get some spectacular outbreak in the photos. Cold water elements forced us to run back to the car park, and get warm in the cosy Caffe shop located nearby. Denham quickly bought a thick wool jumper from the local store to survive the rest of the day. The jumper had a lovely puffin pattern design – obviously.

Iceland Elopement Wedding Háifoss waterfall

Black Beach Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara is a famous black-sand beach on Iceland’s South Coast, featuring impressive basalt columns and the dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Reynisfjara – our last spot for the day. It started getting dark – a proper blue hour. My photography kit struggled with the moisture and cold. I was struggling as well. Our brave couple were shivering. The black beach conditions were harsh and challenging. Nature elements – strong cold wind, raw scenery and dangerous waves only added to the whole dramaturgy of the day. We made it – the first day. Tired, cold and wet but happy. A big kudos to the couple – Kim and Denham, embracing the day.

The Reality of the Iconic Landscape spots on Iceland

South Iceland has some truly breathtaking landscapes, one of the best spots for the elopement wedding. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of Iceland’s most iconic and visually stunning locations. The volcanic black sand, basalt sea stacks, and dramatic cliffs create a striking and otherworldly atmosphere. However, while it is undeniably beautiful, there are also some drawbacks to consider before choosing it as your elopement wedding destination. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of Iceland’s most iconic and visually stunning locations. The volcanic black sand, basalt sea stacks, and dramatic cliffs create a striking and otherworldly atmosphere.

The realities:

Crowds: Black beach Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most visited tourist spots, meaning it can be crowded, especially during peak seasons.
Dangerous Sneaker Waves: The beach is infamous for its powerful and unpredictable sneaker waves, which have been known to sweep people into the ocean. Extreme caution is necessary.
Windy and Cold Conditions: Even in the summer, never mind the winter – the wind can be strong, making it challenging for ceremonies and photography. As with any outdoor location in Iceland, being prepared for sudden weather changes is crucial.

As with any outdoor location in Iceland, being prepared for sudden weather changes is crucial. It can’t be denied, Iceland well known for its beauty, can be crowded by the tourists. Iceland Elopement Wedding is no doubt challenging