Silhouette of a couple embracing closely, wearing formal attire, with soft focus and warm lighting.

ICELAND
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Photographers AND SUPER 8 VIDEOGRAPHERS for your intimate destination wedding or elopement

For the Nostalgic, Storyteller, and Cinema Lovers

Let‘s have a Simple but Deep Connection

A woman with long hair, partially obscured by a translucent fabric, holds the veil near her face, showcasing a ring on her hand.

WHY

ICELAND?

Dream Weddings Start in ICELAND

If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels more like a cinematic love story than a traditional event, Iceland could be your perfect destination. With its raw natural beauty, otherworldly landscapes, and deep sense of serenity, this Nordic island offers couples an unforgettable backdrop for intimate weddings and elopements.

From black sand beaches and moss-covered lava fields to dramatic cliffs and glacier lagoons, Iceland is a visual masterpiece. It’s a land of contrasts—where fire meets ice, where the weather changes within minutes, and where light plays a starring role in every photograph. For couples seeking an emotional and visually powerful celebration, Iceland delivers in every way.

Beyond the scenery, Iceland is peaceful, uncrowded, and infused with a sense of timeless romance. There’s something deeply moving about exchanging vows beneath a waterfall, on a remote cliffside, or beside a glacial lake with no one else in sight. It’s not about grandeur; it’s about presence, emotion, and connection.

This article will guide you through why Iceland is one of the most breathtaking and meaningful places to elope or host a small wedding. We’ll cover the landscapes, venues, legal details, and ideal seasons—plus what to expect from an Iceland wedding photographer who knows how to capture this wild beauty with a cinematic lens.

Couple embracing at sunset with calm water in the background.

ICELAND: A Breathtaking WEDDING AND Elopement Destination

Getting legally married in Iceland is very doable for foreign couples, though a bit of paperwork is involved. Many international couples choose to take care of the legal part at home and enjoy a symbolic ceremony in Iceland, but for those who want to legally wed here, here's what you need to know.

Legal Wedding Requirements for Foreigners:

  • Notice of marriage form must be submitted to the Icelandic National Registry at least 3 weeks before the wedding.

  • Required documents include:

    • Passports for both partners

    • Original birth certificates

    • Certificate of marital status (proving you're free to marry)

    • If divorced, final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate

All documents not in English or Icelandic must be officially translated. You'll need to send everything to the District Commissioner (Sýslumaður) handling your wedding location.

Ceremonies can be civil (often in Reykjavik or local town halls) or conducted by licensed officiants in nature, churches, or hotels. If you're planning something remote, be sure your celebrant is authorized to perform legal weddings outside.

Symbolic Ceremonies:

Many couples choose this route, allowing for complete flexibility with the location, script, and experience. No legal constraints—just your story, your way.

Each season in Iceland tells a different story. Deciding when to marry here depends on the mood you want to capture, the locations you plan to visit, and your comfort level with weather variations.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is Iceland’s most popular wedding season—and for good reason. Days are long (almost endless, thanks to the midnight sun), the weather is milder, and many locations are easily accessible. You’ll find the Highlands open, rivers calm enough to cross, and a general sense of brightness and life. Perfect for elopements in the wild.

Best for: Golden light, lush landscapes, warm evenings, adventure elopements.

Autumn (September to October)

Autumn brings stunning colors, quieter trails, and the beginning of Northern Lights season. The landscapes take on a moody, painterly quality—ideal for cinematic photos. You’ll want to bundle up, but the atmosphere is deeply romantic.

Best for: Rich tones, soft light, fewer tourists, chance to see auroras.

Winter (November to March)

Winter is wild and magical. Snow blankets lava fields, waterfalls freeze into ice sculptures, and skies fill with Northern Lights. Roads can be tricky, and daylight is limited, but the drama is unmatched. Perfect for couples wanting something cozy, mystical, and off the beaten path.

Best for: Snowy backdrops, intimate indoor weddings, unique portraits under the aurora.

Spring (April to May)

A transitional season, with fewer visitors and melting snow. Days begin to stretch, and the country slowly comes to life again. A quieter but rewarding time.

Best for: Peaceful vibes, flowing waterfalls, and blooming nature.

Why ICELAND is the Perfect Place for Your Intimate Wedding

Iceland is a place that strips everything back to the essentials—raw landscapes, crisp air, elemental energy. It’s the perfect canvas for a love story told through an intimate, cinematic wedding or elopement.

1. Landscapes Unlike Anywhere Else on Earth

The true power of an Iceland elopement lies in the setting. The scenery is nothing short of epic, and each location tells its own story. Some of the most visually stunning places for elopements include:

  • Skógafoss Waterfall – Ideal for dramatic photos and powerful symbolism.

  • Vík’s Black Sand Beach – Windswept, moody, and unforgettable.

  • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Icebergs floating serenely beside you.

  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Often called “Iceland in Miniature” with its diverse scenery.

  • Kirkjufell Mountain – A striking peak often seen in films and iconic photos.

  • Landmannalaugar Highlands – A surreal landscape of colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal springs, perfect for adventurous souls.

There’s an emotion to the land—quiet, powerful, untamed. It evokes introspection and intimacy. Every corner feels like it was designed for epic storytelling.

2. The Cinematic Light

One of Iceland’s greatest gifts to photographers is the light. Whether it’s the golden glow of the midnight sun or the deep blue shadows of overcast skies, the lighting conditions change constantly—adding drama and emotion to every frame.

An experienced Iceland wedding photographer will know how to harness this natural theatre, turning fleeting moments into visual poetry. The country’s ever-shifting skies, fog, and northern lights make every shoot unpredictable—in the best way possible.

3. Cultural Simplicity Meets Natural Grandeur

Icelandic culture is built on respect for nature, minimalism, and authenticity. This philosophy makes it easy to plan a wedding that feels intentional and real. There's no pressure to conform to a set format—your elopement can be fully yours, free from convention.

Couples can keep it simple with just the two of them and an officiant, or invite a handful of close family and friends. Most Icelandic wedding planners and vendors are familiar with international couples and offer services that honor your story while embracing local customs, folklore, and traditions—if you choose.

4. Unique Venues for Intimate Celebrations

If you’re not heading deep into the wild, Iceland also offers a variety of cozy and stylish venues ideal for small weddings:

  • Hotel Búðir – A boutique hotel near the iconic black church, surrounded by lava fields and ocean views.

  • The Retreat at Blue Lagoon – A luxurious spa resort perfect for couples wanting indulgence and serenity.

  • Deplar Farm in the North – A remote, luxury lodge for those looking to combine wilderness with comfort.

  • Icelandair Hotel Hérað – A great base for exploring the East Fjords.

You can even rent a private cabin or glass-roofed lodge to fully immerse in nature without sacrificing comfort.

5. Vendors Who Understand the Magic

Iceland’s wedding industry is small but high-quality. Many photographers, planners, and florists are creatives who specialize in elopements. They know the terrain, the weather patterns, the laws—and how to help you create something meaningful, even in the most rugged of places.

A good Iceland wedding photographer won’t just capture images; they’ll help shape the experience—guiding you through timelines, weather plans, and finding those secret spots that make your photos uniquely yours.

CONCLUSION

Iceland isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. It’s the thrill of being surrounded by nature’s raw power, the hush of standing beneath a waterfall with your person, the goosebumps from Northern Lights swirling overhead. For couples who crave intimacy, emotion, and epic beauty, there’s simply no better place for a wedding or elopement.

This is a country that invites you to slow down, feel deeply, and honor your connection in a truly meaningful way. Whether you're exchanging vows in a volcanic field or celebrating with loved ones in a cozy boutique lodge, Iceland offers a wedding experience that’s both grounding and elevated.

With the right photographer and vendors who understand the landscape and mood, your Iceland wedding becomes more than an event—it becomes art. It becomes your story, told against one of the most breathtaking backdrops on Earth.

So if your dream wedding feels more like a film than a formal gathering—moody skies, emotional vows, windswept kisses—Iceland is calling. Answer with love, adventure, and a photographer who sees the world the way you feel it.

PHOTOGRAPHER FOR SMALL AND INTIMATE WEDDING, ELOPEMENT, ADVENTURE ESCAPADES & COUPLE STORIES

WE ARE so delighted to see you on OUR website, let’s talk about your wedding IN ICELAND and create a small but deep connection

Thank you for visiting my website! If you’re seeking a wedding photographer who combines a journalistic, fine art, and storytelling approach, you’ve come to the right place.

As a French destination wedding photographer with a passion for traveling the globe,
I am especially captivated by the beauty and spirit of ICELAND.
It’s my mission to showcase the magic of your wedding day through my lens, and THIS LOCATION provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments.
I invite you to explore my full stories and see highlights from previous destination weddings.

While I am based in Europe, I always cherish opportunities to photograph in ICELAND and collaborate with creative, inspiring couples like you.
If you’re interested in working together, please feel free to send me a message.
I typically respond within 24 hours, and I’d love to discuss how I can help make your special day truly extraordinary.

Discover my portfolio, read testimonials from my couples, learn more about my vision, or simply reach out to connect.

Thank you once again, and welcome!


VISUAL STORYTELLER

EST. 2014

AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE


 FAQs

  • Eric René Penoy offers bespoke wedding photography and videography services, specializing in intimate destination weddings and elopements. They focus on cinematic storytelling, capturing raw, unposed moments that reflect the essence of each couple's love story. The services include both traditional photography and Super 8 videography, with a unique approach that emphasizes emotions and atmosphere over staged shots. They also offer vow renewals, two-day escapades, and mentoring for photographers.

  • Yes, Eric René Penoy and his team travel for weddings and elopements, offering destination wedding photography and videography services globally. They specialize in capturing intimate moments in stunning locations, ensuring each couple's love story is uniquely told, regardless of the destination, religions, cultures, or sexual preferences.

  • The booking process with Eric René Penoy involves reaching out through their website’s contact form. After receiving your inquiry, they will discuss your wedding or elopement details, availability, and packages. Once confirmed, you’ll sign a contract and pay a deposit to secure the date.

  • Destination photographers are experienced in adapting to weather conditions, often finding creative indoor locations or rescheduling shots to work around the weather.

  • Here’s a comprehensive list of wedding types to reflect openness to all kinds of unions. It emphasizes inclusivity across cultural, religious, sexual, and racial dimensions:

    Religious Weddings:

    • Christian (Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, etc.)

    • Muslim

    • Jewish

    • Hindu

    • Buddhist

    • Sikh

    • Traditional African spiritual weddings

    • Indigenous and First Nations ceremonies

    • Pagan or Wiccan

    • Interfaith weddings

    Civil and Secular Weddings:

    • Civil ceremonies

    • Secular or non-religious ceremonies

    • Commitment ceremonies

    Cultural Weddings:

    • Traditional African weddings (e.g., Wolof, Zulu, Ashanti, etc.)

    • Indian weddings (e.g., Punjabi, South Indian, Bengali, etc.)

    • East Asian weddings (e.g., Chinese, Japanese, Korean)

    • Middle Eastern weddings

    • Latin American weddings

    • European traditional weddings (e.g., Italian, Greek, Irish)

    • Indigenous weddings from any region

    Same-Sex and LGBTQ+ Weddings:

    • Same-sex marriages (gay and lesbian couples)

    • Non-binary or gender-diverse ceremonies

    • Queer-inclusive celebrations

    Interracial and Multicultural Weddings:

    • Interracial marriages

    • Cross-cultural weddings blending traditions

    Destination and Adventure Weddings:

    • Beach weddings

    • Elopements

    • Mountain or forest weddings

    • Urban chic ceremonies

    • Intimate micro-weddings

    Unique and Thematic Weddings:

    • Eco-friendly or sustainable weddings

    • Vintage or retro-themed weddings

    • Fantasy or cosplay weddings

    • Minimalist or modern weddings

    Other Types of Weddings:

    • Vow renewals

    • Second marriages or blended family ceremonies

    • Polyamorous union ceremonies

    • Anniversary celebrations

    Commitment to Inclusivity:

    "We warmly welcome and celebrate all forms of love, unions, and traditions. Our goal is to honor your unique love story, whatever your background, beliefs, or preferences."

  • Barn Wedding - Church Wedding - Religious Wedding - Hacienda Wedding - Finca Wedding - Lake Wedding - Rooftop Wedding - Rainy Wedding - Sunset Wedding - Winter Wedding - Backyard Wedding - Beach Wedding - Forest Wedding - Island Wedding -Outdoor Wedding - Ranch Wedding - Mexican Wedding - Vineyard Wedding - Circus Wedding - Indian Wedding - Chinese Wedding - Asian Wedding - Japanese Wedding - Punjabi Wedding - Korean Wedding - Same-Sex Wedding - Vietnamese Wedding - Greek Wedding - Lebanese Wedding - Scottish Wedding - British Wedding - Urban Wedding - Country Side Wedding - Jewish Wedding - Orthodox Wedding - New Orleans Wedding - Russian Wedding - Moroccan Wedding - Interfaith Wedding - Civil Wedding - African Wedding.

Get in touch.

ericrenepenoy@gmail.com

Based in Europe from March to October.
Based in Mexico from October to March.

ANY QUESTIONS?

 CHOOSING A SIMILAR LOCATION FOR YOUR INTIMATE WEDDING OR ELOPEMENT

Covering an elopement or intimate wedding in that location is amazing. I am keen, honored, and humbled to be able to cover your special day. I am always available for you, even on weekdays from Tuesday to Thursday if I have to travel. Just shoot me a message, an email, or even a direct message on WhatsApp using the links below.
I can't wait to read or hear from you and create a unique story in a nontraditional way and create a beautiful narrative. Keeping emotion, small gestures, epic portraiture, group shots, and dance floor photographs to create a gallery with at least 1200 pictures for you to create your own story.

When you hire me, you get the entire me, my creativity, my knowledge, my brain, my emotions,
my SOUL, my MIND, my HEART.

Black and white photo of a couple embracing in a forest setting.

THE COLLECTION
STARTS AT 1700 EUROS.

I offer 3 different wedding packages that come with variable hours, prints, or albums.
I can sometimes offer discounts for midweek weddings.
Please contact me, and you will receive a lot of information regarding the packages.

Please fill out your details, and I will get in touch with you shortly. Thanks for letting me know your wedding dates and your name, phone number, and email address. If your event concerns a wedding, engagement, honeymoon, trash the dress or portrait, I would love to read your comments if you wish. 


You can also contact me on Instagram, @ericrene.penoy

Let‘s have a Simple but Deep Connection