How to Capture Fjords, Orcas, Arctic Light, and Icy Landscapes

This trip was born from a very specific dream: to swim with orcas… in Norway… in January.  Naturally, I convinced a reluctant Emily to join me in this plan, and somehow we both survived to tell the story.  If you haven’t read the full recap of our adventures yet, you can check it out HERE but this post focuses on what the trip taught me from a photography perspective.

Our itinerary took us through Bergen, the Norwegian fjords, Tromsø, Seglvik, and Iceland.  Each location came with its own challenges, rewards, and moments where I had to remind myself that I chose to be cold.  If you’re planning a photography-forward winter trip to Norway or the Arctic, this itinerary offers plenty of lessons—both intentional and accidental.

Bergen: Moody Light Wins Every Time

Bergen’s reputation for rain is well earned and honestly, I love it.  I enjoy shooting in the elements because weather adds mood, texture, and a sense of place you just can’t fake.  If you’re heading to Norway in winter (10/10 would recommend), layers are non-negotiable: base layers, mid-weight layers, and windproof, waterproof outer layers.

Bergen is very walkable and centered around a main train station, with an overnight train from Oslo.  We originally planned to take the night train but pivoted to a quick 45-minute flight instead—one of several moments where practicality won.

What to Photograph in Bergen

• • Bryggen Wharf – Colorful wooden buildings with beautiful reflections after rain

• • Narrow cobblestone streets and historic details

• • Harbor views with boats and mountains in the background

• • Fog rolling through the city or over surrounding hills

Photography Tips for Bergen

• • Overcast days are ideal—embrace the soft, diffused light

• • Use a mid-range lens (24–70mm) for flexibility

• • Look for reflections in puddles and wet stone streets

• • Slightly underexpose to preserve detail in clouds and highlights

Tip: Bergen is perfect for slowing down.  Details like textures, doors, colors, and everyday moments really shine here.

Flåm & the Norwegian Fjords: Landscapes on a Schedule

Photographing the fjords is absolutely breathtaking but it’s also very time-sensitive.  Trains, ferries, and tours move quickly, and you won’t always be able to wait for “perfect” light.  Fog is also a very real factor.  I love shooting in fog, but it shows up fast and has zero regard for your carefully planned compositions.

What to Photograph:

• • Wide fjord landscapes

• • Waterfalls and mist

• • Train windows and viewpoints (glare is tricky—be persistent, it pays off)

• • Reflections on calm water

Photography Tips for the Fjords

• • Bring a wide-angle lens (this is non-negotiable)

• • Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare on water

• • Shoot quickly because boats and trains don’t slow down for photos

• • Don’t skip the details: ice, water texture, rock faces

Tip: Some of our favorite images came from unexpected angles when plans changed.  Stay flexible—it’s part of the experience.

Tromsø & the Arctic Circle: Wildlife and Low Light

Photography in Tromsø is all about extremes—extreme cold, extreme light changes, and extreme experiences.  If you’re traveling to Norway in winter, you must understand Polar Night.  This occurs when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon for 24 hours.

That doesn’t mean total darkness, but it does mean you may only get a few hours of very low, moody light.  Plan accordingly and don’t expect traditional daylight hours.

What to Photograph

• • Arctic landscapes and coastal scenes

• • Wildlife (orcas, whales, birds)

• • Snow-covered towns and harbors

• Quiet moments between adventures

Photography Tips for Tromsø

• • Fast shutter speeds are critical for wildlife—burst mode will be your friend

• • Keep ISO flexible; grain is better than blur

• • Store spare batteries in inner pockets to keep them warm

• • Weather changes fast, so be ready to shoot at any moment

Tip: Cold fingers are real.  Set your camera before heading out whenever possible.

Iceland: Landscapes, Light, and Relaxed Shooting

After Norway, Iceland felt like a deep breath.  The wide-open spaces, slower pace, and dramatic scenery made it an absolute joy to photograph.

What to Photograph

• • Geothermal landscapes

• • Coastal scenery

• • Hot springs and lagoons

• • Dramatic skies

Photography Tips for Iceland

• • Shoot wide and often—the scale is incredible

• • Overcast skies = excellent editing flexibility

• • Use a tripod for low-light scenes

• • Watch reflections in water and ice

Tip: Iceland’s light changes constantly.  Keep your camera ready, even during “down time.”

General Tips for Nordic Photography

• • Shoot in RAW whenever possible

• • Dress for the weather so you can focus on shooting

• • Accept that conditions won’t be perfect—and that’s okay

• • Take photos and take breaks to just experience the moment

Final Thoughts

Photographing Norway isn’t about chasing perfect conditions—it’s about working with what you’re given.  Whether you’re shooting city streets, fjords, wildlife, or icy landscapes, patience and flexibility will take you farther than any single piece of gear.

Some shots will surprise you.  Some won’t work at all.  And some will become favorites simply because of the story behind them.  Keep shooting, keep adjusting, and enjoy every second of it.