Best Practices for Photographing an active Volcano

Understanding the Lava Glow

The intense glow of the lava can be mesmerizing, but it also poses a unique challenge for photographers. The lava's brightness can easily blow out highlights in your photos, causing important details to be lost in overexposure. To tackle this issue, aim to slightly underexpose your images to retain better highlight details and prevent them from becoming too washed out.

Manual Mode for Better Control

Using your camera's manual mode allows you to have complete control over the exposure settings, aperture, and shutter speed. This level of control is crucial when dealing with the extreme contrasts between the dark surroundings and the bright lava. Adjust your settings manually to achieve the desired exposure, and don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect balance.

Tripod Stability

Given the low-light conditions during the night or around the volcanic area, a tripod is your best friend for ensuring sharp and steady shots. A stable tripod will prevent camera shake and allow you to use longer exposure times without blur. Consider using tripod spikes for extra grip, depending on the ground.

Watch Your Composition

When photographing the volcano, be mindful of your composition. Include elements in the foreground or mid-ground to add depth and context to your images. Try incorporating leading lines or interesting rock formations to guide the viewer's eye toward the focal point—the magnificent lava flow. Keep experimenting with different angles and perspectives to create dynamic and captivating compositions.

In the image below you can see how i opted for a wide angle to get the mountains and sky into the image and to help capture the lava flowing away from the Volcano.

Use Wide Apertures for Night Shots

During nighttime, when you want to capture the glowing lava against a starry sky, consider using wide apertures (low f-stop numbers) to let in more light. Wide apertures will help you achieve a shallow depth of field, creating a beautiful bokeh effect with the stars in the background while keeping the lava in sharp focus.

Patience and Timing

Photographing the volcano requires patience and keen observation. The volcanic activity might not be constant, so take your time and wait for the perfect moment to capture the most striking shots. The lava's flow, intensity, and colours can change rapidly, so being patient and ready to click the shutter at the right moment is essential.

Protect Your Gear

The volcanic environment can be harsh and unpredictable. Protect your camera gear from ash, dust, and potential heat by using camera rain covers or plastic bags. Additionally, consider using lens hoods to prevent any stray debris from getting on your lens.

Conclusion

Photographing a volcano eruption is a challenging yet rewarding experience for any adventurous photographer. By being prepared, using manual mode, and adjusting exposure settings, you can capture the incredible lava flow and its mesmerizing glow in all its glory. Remember to keep safety in mind and protect your gear while immersing yourself in this extraordinary natural phenomenon. With these best practices in mind, you're all set to create stunning and memorable images of your volcanic adventure in Iceland. Happy shooting! 🌋🧊📸