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

Reynisfjara Beach

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.

Iceland coastal road comparison
Iceland coastal road comparison

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

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

When to Travel

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season
Off-peak Season

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.

Included

Not Included