The Secret Life of Walter Mitty - Chasing Light in Iceland
Follow in the footsteps of Walter Mitty on an epic photography adventure through Iceland. From the rugged Grundarfjörður coastline to the raw beauty of the Vatnajökull glacier, capture the extraordinary moments that inspired Sean O'Connell's legendary quest for the perfect shot.
This tour involves challenging hiking and outdoor photography in extreme weather conditions. Participants should be physically fit and prepared for long days in remote locations. Weather can change rapidly, affecting both photography conditions and accessibility. Professional camera gear protection is essential.
Timeline
Reykjavík: Gateway to Adventure
Photography begins in Iceland's capital
Daily Schedule
Photography Gear Check
Equipment review and weather protection briefing
Old Harbor Photo Walk
Golden hour photography of fishing boats and Harpa Concert Hall
Welcome Dinner
Traditional Icelandic feast and tour briefing
Accommodation
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina
4-star hotel
Harbor-side location with photographer's lounge
Chapter
“To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life.”
— LIFE Magazine Motto
Begin your photographic journey in the city where Walter's adventure started
Photo Opportunities
Sun Voyager Sculpture
Iconic steel sculpture against mountain backdrop
Best time: Sunset
Harpa Concert Hall
Geometric glass facade patterns
Best time: Blue hour

What it's like
You'll wake before dawn, thermos of coffee in hand, camera ready. The wind whips across volcanic plains as you set up your tripod, waiting for that perfect moment when light breaks through. Sometimes you'll drive for hours through landscapes that look like another planet, chasing the weather, following the light.
Some days find you hanging out of helicopters with your camera, other days hiking across glaciers with your gear. You'll learn to shoot in extreme conditions, master the art of capturing motion, and discover how to tell stories through your lens. In the evenings, you'll review your work with fellow photographers in cozy lodges, sharing techniques and tales of the day's adventures.
The weather will challenge you. Your fingers will be cold. But when that perfect moment arrives - a longboarder silhouetted against the midnight sun, or the Northern Lights dancing above a glacier - you'll understand why Sean O'Connell chose these locations. Like Walter Mitty, you'll return with not just photographs, but stories of your own extraordinary adventure.
Bring layers, bring backup batteries, and bring your courage. But most importantly, bring your willingness to wait for those perfect moments when life transcends the viewfinder.


Are You Ready for the Perfect Shot?
Every great photograph requires preparation
Photography locations require hiking with gear
The best shots often come in challenging weather
We follow the light, not the clock
Some locations require basic lodging to access remote shots
Camera gear must be carried to remote locations
Like Sean O'Connell, you have the spirit of a true photographer
Physical Preparation
Must Have
- •Ability to hike 12km with camera gear
- •Comfortable with heights for aerial shots
- •Can handle early morning starts
- •Capable of working in cold conditions
Nice to Have
- •Experience hiking on glaciers
- •Cold weather photography experience
- •Basic climbing ability
Technical Skills
Must Have
- •Understanding of manual camera settings
- •Experience with landscape photography
- •Knowledge of long exposure techniques
- •Basic post-processing skills
Nice to Have
- •Aerial photography experience
- •Night photography skills
- •Time-lapse knowledge
Essential Gear
Must Have
- •Professional DSLR or mirrorless camera
- •Wide-angle and telephoto lenses
- •Sturdy tripod
- •Weather-sealed camera bag
Provided by Us
- •Satellite communication device
- •Emergency gear
- •Specialized filters
- •Backup storage solutions
Photographer's Pledge
Before joining this photographic expedition, acknowledge:
I understand this is an adventure photography tour, not a casual vacation
We prioritize getting the best shots over comfort
I am prepared for challenging weather conditions
Iceland's weather is unpredictable and extreme
I can handle my camera gear in difficult conditions
You'll need to manage your equipment while hiking

When to Travel
spring
- Aurora photography
- Ice cave access
- Migrating birds
- Dynamic weather
summer
- Midnight sun photography
- Wildflower landscapes
- Puffin colonies
- Mountain access
autumn
- Northern Lights return
- Fall color landscapes
- Dramatic storms
- Fewer tourists
winter
- Peak aurora activity
- Snow-covered landscapes
- Ice formations
- Dramatic light
Note: Weather conditions can vary significantly.