Jökulsárlón
Posted in Iceland Locations
Jokulsarlon – the glacial lagoon.
Jokulsarlon is a must on any trip to Iceland! It is the main feature of the Jokulsarlon Tour and can also be toured over two days. Or a long tour. The Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon is now Iceland’s deepest lake at a depth of 200m. The huge lake holds tonnes of ice that has broken off the Vatnjökull Glacier. It is the only place where ice actually makes it from the glacier to the open sea. The ice on this lake fell as snow in the days of the Sagas.
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In the summer the lagoon is the perfect place to spend time. The ice chills the air nicely as the Arctic terns buzz around above your head. Families of seals try to get away from the groups of tourists.
This attraction is the main destination on the Jokulsarlon Tour.
The shelter of the ice means that perfect reflections are common on the lagoon. They can be easily disturbed by a passing seal of the crashing of one of the bergs as it turns over. The perfect reflection make the lagoon a favourite place for photographers because, in the early morning or late evening, it is nearly impossible to take a bad picture.
The location has been used for many films including James Bond. If it is good enough for James Bond, it is good enough for you. The only problem is that it is at least a 4.5 hours drive from Reykjavik.
Photo tips:
Try to focus on foreground and find a nice piece of ice which will lead into the bigger scene. Experiment with a polariser. Try some long exposures if you can, but be aware that the ice moves. Take a long lens to capture seals. Adjust your exposure compensation to expose the seals correctly. Adjust your exposure to over expose the ice. Don’t forget to visit the beach! During night shoots, be courteous with your flashlight.
Experience Jokulsarlon yourself with a Day Tour, or Long Tour.
Find photo locations in the area with Geotog.com