Visiting timetableClosed
Monday, February 2, 2026
Raufarhólshellir, Route 39 (Þrengslin), South Iceland
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Photography Guide – Shoot Dramatic Lava Tunnel Interiors

Get better photos in the Lava Tunnel with smart settings, stabilization, and composition tricks.

1/10/2026
16 min read
Night color effects inside lava tunnel

Lava Tunnel Photography Guide

Night color effects

Gear Checklist

  • Wide lens (24–35mm), fast prime (f/1.8–2.8)
  • Headlamp and spare batteries
  • Mini clamp or strap for stabilization
  • Microfiber cloth to dry condensation

Settings That Work

  • ISO 1600–3200, 1/10–1/40s, f/2.8–4 for handheld.
  • Use Auto ISO with manual shutter to control motion blur.
  • Bracket around skylights; merge later for dynamic range.

Light shaft through skylight

Composition Ideas

  • Frame people against light shafts for scale.
  • Shoot along flow lines to guide the eye.
  • Use headlamps to paint texture into shadows.

Pro move: Hold your breath for the exposure — even tiny motion shows up at 1/10s.

Do/Don’t Checklist

  • Keep to marked paths
  • Ask guides before off‑path shots
  • Use flash near ice curtains (can melt)
  • Respect other guests’ view

People walking inside tunnel


Deliverable mindset: Aim for 5 hero shots — entrance, skylight beam, color bands, texture macro, and a candid with scale.

About the Author

Iceland Travel Expert

Iceland Travel Expert

I put this guide together to make your Lava Tunnel day simple, insightful, and full of practical tips from the road.

Tags

Photography
Low Light
Tripod
Iceland
Lava Tunnel

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