Dettifoss, Iceland

Dettifoss is a waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland, and is reputed to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. 

Most people view and photograph it from a different viewpoint, which showcases the real power of the falls.  I wanted to photograph it in a more subdued way, creating a sense of calm and peace, even though this is the most powerful waterfall in Iceland and the European mainland. 

I was in Iceland early July, so the sun would never completely set, but skimmer over the horizon.  I ended up photographing these falls at about 1am, completely by myself.  Scouting for inspiring compositions.  The great benefit of photographing in Iceland is that soft and golden light can last for hours.  So the race against time that I am used to normally, is not really creating any challenges here.  It’s one of these nights I won’t forget easily.  Having this breathtaking landscape all to myself, is a privilege I truly appreciate.  It is a time to reflect on the “wildness” of this planet we live on, and translate it back to the hectic lives we live back in our “constructed” world.  It’s a time to “Dream After Midnight”.