May 7, 2027
to May 13, 2027
The Abstract Lowlands 2027 – Braided Rivers (May 7-13)
Drone Photo Workshop
About the workshop
Join our May 2027 Abstract Lowlands drone workshop. Photograph the braided river systems and volcanic plains of South and Southeast Iceland with expert guidance from Hörður Kristleifsson.
Season:
Early Spring
Focus Points:
Rivers and Spring Colors
Area:
South and South East coast
Duration:
7 days, 6 nights
Date:
May 7 - 13, 2027
Trip Guide:
Hörður Kristleifsson
Age Limit:
18
Group Size:
6 people
The Abstract Lowlands 2027 - Braided Rivers and Spring Colors
May represents a peak moment for aerial photography in Iceland. As the spring thaw intensifies in the Highlands, a massive volume of meltwater is released into the lowlands, revitalizing the vast glacial river systems that stretch across the Southeast. This workshop is specifically designed to document this transformation, where the landscape shifts from the frozen grip of winter into a dynamic, flowing environment of color and texture.
The primary focus of this expedition is the intricate, braided patterns that carve through the black volcanic plains. From a drone’s perspective, the meeting of sediment-heavy glacial water and clear mountain streams creates complex, shifting forms that resemble living abstract paintings.
While the river systems are our primary focus, we also explore the surrounding canyons, waterfalls, and coastal formations that define this region. The extended daylight of May allows us to stay flexible and spend more time in the field when the light is right.
The Experience
- Small-Group Focus: We limit this workshop to 6 guests. This small size makes it easier to move quickly when the light changes and ensures you get one-on-one help with your flight technique and compositions.
- For Every Pilot: Whether you just bought your first drone or have been flying for years, the workshop is open to all skill levels. Hörður will tailor his instruction to your specific experience level.
- Professional Transport: We travel in a custom 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter on 35-inch tires. It is built to handle Icelandic roads while keeping everyone comfortable between locations.
- Power in the Field: The Sprinter is equipped with portable power stations. You can keep your drone batteries, remotes, and laptops fully charged while we are on the move.
- Expert Guidance: You will have full-time support from Hörður Kristleifsson, a local professional photographer and licensed drone pilot. He provides technical insights and knows the best vantage points in Iceland.
- Stay and Meals: Your trip includes 6 nights in twin rooms with daily breakfast. We also include a welcome dinner and a final goodbye dinner for the group.
- Dedicated Editing Time: We spend time indoors learning Hörður’s personal post-processing workflow. This covers technical skills like stitching panoramas and color grading RAW files.
Hörður Kristleifsson is a photographer specializing in aerial photography. Born and raised in Iceland, the Arctic is more than just a destination for him; it is his heritage and his home.
Through his work, Hörður collaborates with DJI, the global leader in drones. Working on their product launches and campaigns allows him to put the latest tech to the ultimate test in Iceland’s harsh conditions. This insider experience keeps him at the forefront of the industry, enabling him to teach the most current and effective techniques for the modern aerial photographer.
Over the years, he has flown more than 30,000 kilometers across multiple drones, flying through everything from active volcanic eruptions to the notorious Icelandic highland winds, encountering virtually every flight condition imaginable. For workshop participants, this means having a guide who knows exactly how to handle the elements, keeping gear safe while helping to capture the shot of a lifetime.
As an instructor, Hörður prides himself on a down-to-earth teaching style. His passion lies in making advanced drone techniques accessible to everyone, while also sharing Iceland’s deep history and the stories behind the landscapes visited.
Day 1: Arrival, Strategy & Gear Check
We meet in Reykjavík at 15:00 for a complete workshop briefing and an overview of the week’s potential conditions. We conduct a thorough gear check, covering drones, batteries, and camera equipment, to ensure everything is ready for the field. This session also helps us understand your goals, whether you are looking to master technical flight, refine composition, or focus on post-processing. We conclude the day with a group welcome dinner.
Days 2-5: The Field Days (Dynamic & Flexible Plan)
These are our primary shooting days, where the itinerary is dictated entirely by weather and light. Hörður is an expert in reading Icelandic forecasts and understanding how microclimates behave across different regions. With his expert knowledge, we always aim to be in the best possible locations at the right time. By staying mobile and avoiding a rigid schedule, we maximize the chances of epic conditions. Our focus remains on the vast landscapes between the South Coast and the Southeast, staying mobile to chase the best conditions. We spend significant time over the major glacial river systems, but we also explore the surrounding canyons, waterfalls, wildlife, and coastal formations that define the region. The extended daylight of May allows us to stay flexible and spend more time in the field when the light is at its best.
- Field Sessions: Expect early starts to catch the best light, with multiple drone sessions separated by drives and stops to rest and review footage.
- Evening Review: Evenings are dedicated to image review and technical editing sessions. We also maintain flexibility for sunset missions or night shoots if the conditions allow.
Day 6: Final Shoot & Return to Reykjavík
We make our way back to Reykjavík and spend the day exploring a few extra spots on the way. In the evening, we gather for a final group dinner in Reykjavík to celebrate the week’s work and review the portfolio of images captured. Your final night of accommodation in the city is included.
Day 7: Breakfast & Departures
Enjoy a final breakfast with the group at the hotel. The workshop officially concludes after breakfast, leaving you ready to catch the airport shuttle to Keflavík for your flight home or to continue your travels in Iceland.
Our workshops are open to any experience level. Because we work with small groups, the pace and level can be adapted to each individual participant. Whether you are completely new to flying drones or have many years of experience, you will be supported at your own level.
Hörður brings deep technical and creative expertise and can adapt instruction and guidance to each person’s needs in the group. The workshop is equally suited for beginners who want to build a strong foundation and for experienced photographers looking to refine their skills.
Our goal is to create a safe, flexible, and inspiring learning environment where everyone can progress confidently.
Professional Instruction: Full-time guidance by aerial landscape photographer and licensed drone pilot Hörður Kristleifsson (@h0rdur)
The Truck: Travel in a custom-modified 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter van on 35” tires designed for off-road capability and comfort.
Guaranteed Power: Access to our on-board charging stations. Keep all your drone batteries, remotes, laptops, etc., charged while we drive.
Accommodation: 6 nights’ accommodation in twin rooms (double occupancy) with private or shared bathrooms. Single room supplement adds $1000.
Selected Meals:
- Breakfast: Daily breakfast at the accommodation (six mornings total)
- Welcome Dinner (Day 1)
- Goodbye Dinner (Day 6)
Domestic Flight when applicable (Return):
- One-way flight from Höfn (HFN) to Reykjavík (RKV) at the end of the workshop.
- Skip the long drive back and enjoy a scenic 1-hour flight over the South Coast to conclude the trip.
Image Critique & Post-Processing:
- Editing Sessions: Dedicated indoor time at our Hali Base (and other accommodations) to edit the images you capture during our trip.
- Masterclass: Our guide Hörður will teach his personal workflow for processing, stitching panoramas, and color grading aerial shots.
- International Travel: Flights to / from Iceland.
- Airport Transfers: Transport between Keflavík Airport and Reykjavík
- Daily Dinners (Days 2 – 5): Meals on these evenings are at your own expense. We will visit local restaurants or hotel dining rooms where you can order from the menu.
- Lunches & Snacks: To maximize our schedule, we grab lunches “on the go” at grocery stores, bakeries, or gas stations.
- Drinks and alcohol.
- Insurance: Personal travel insurance and equipment insurance (for your drone/camera gear) is highly recommended.
As luggage space in the vehicle is limited, we kindly ask all participants to bring a duffel bag, as it fits best in the vehicle we will be using. In addition, you should bring a small photography backpack for shorter hikes.
No matter where you’re going in Iceland, it’s important to choose the right clothing and dress according to the weather. We strongly recommend dressing in layers so it’s easy to add or remove clothing as conditions change.
- Good waterproof shoes with ankle support (hiking boots)
- Thermal underwear
- Wool/fleece thermal mid-layer
- Hiking pants
- Waterproof pants & jacket
- Warm gloves & hat (photography gloves or touchscreen-supported gloves)
- Socks (wool or synthetic)
- Sunglasses
- Small day-backpack
- Reusable water-bottle
Drone Equipment (Essential)
- A drone suitable for aerial photography in all weather conditions. See the next dropdown for advice.
- At least 3 spare batteries for your drone (more is better)
- Spare propellers
- Charging equipment for batteries, controller, and accessories
- Extra memory cards for your drone
- A Backup Drone. Accidents happen. If you own two drones, bring both.
- Replacement: If you need a replacement mid-trip, we can help arrange a rush order for a new unit from DJI Reykjavík, but please note that delivery can take 24+ hours.
Optional Camera Equipment
- DSLR or Mirrorless Camera for ground-level shots
- ND Filters for your drone/camera if you’d like to shoot long-exposures or videos
- Tripod
Computer & Software
- Laptop or tablet for image review and editing
- Adobe Lightroom Classic or similar photo-editing software (required for group review and editing sessions)
- Card reader and necessary cables for data transfer
Additional Recommended Items
- Photography Backpack for carrying your gear on short hikes
- External hard drive or SSD for daily backups
- Power bank for charging your phone or drone remote on the go
- Power Strip for hotel rooms with limited outlets. A power strip lets you charge your drone, camera, computer, and phone simultaneously from a single outlet.
- Travel Adapter: Iceland uses the standard European Type F (2-pin) plugs.
- Microfiber Cloths and Rocket Blowers for dust cleaning
This list ensures you are well prepared, whether you focus solely on drone photography or complement your aerial work with ground-based images.
For practical details on what to pack and how to prepare, please see the FAQ.
What drone to choose for the trip?
- Iceland has unpredictable and strong winds. To ensure you can capture the best footage in all conditions, we strongly recommend bringing a drone with high wind resistance, such as the DJI Mavic 3/4 Pro or the DJI Air 3/3S.
- Hörður currently flies the DJI Mavic 4 Pro paired with the RC Pro 2. If you are looking to upgrade your current drone, we have a contact at the DJI Reykjavík store. They price-match to European retail prices, and as a visitor, you also get a 14% Tax Refund at the airport. This combination means you can buy a drone here for significantly less than in the US or Europe (saving up to $ 500/€500, depending on the model).
- If you only have a sub-250g drone (like the DJI Mini series), please be prepared to fly less, as Icelandic winds can overpower smaller frames. On top of that, the Mini drones from DJI are limited to 120m/394ft, which can be very limiting when flying in mountainous areas. Strongly consider upgrading before the trip or buying locally upon arrival. Regardless of your drone choice, always consider bringing your DSLR or mirrorless camera as a backup for ground-level shots.
Learn from a Pro: Master drone photography and post-processing workflows.
Travel with a Local: Experience the history, geology, and hidden gems of Iceland.
Fly with Confidence: Gain the skills to fly safely in challenging conditions on a stress-free trip focusing on great company and beautiful landscapes.
Know how to read Iceland: We don’t just “visit” locations; we chase the light, adapt to the elements, and find unique compositions that others miss.
Hörður’s goal is to tie all these elements together: technical skill, local knowledge, and creative vision, to ensure you get the absolute most out of your workshop experience.
Price 6.990 USD
Workshop Dates
Photo Gallery
All photos taken by your guide Hörður on location in Iceland. We adjust our itinerary based on light and weather conditions to ensure you capture Iceland at its very best. Below are examples of possible locations in the areas we'll be exploring*.
*Note: Images displayed for our workshops show potential locations only. To prioritize the best light and conditions, our final route remains flexible. Because Icelandic weather is unpredictable, not all visited locations are pictured, and not all pictured locations are guaranteed. This adaptable approach is necessary to ensure we are always in the right place at the right time.
Booking inquiry
Please fill in the form to make a reservation enquiry.
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions:
Think of this as a guided photography expedition. While the term "workshop" often implies sitting in a classroom, our focus is 100% on the field. Hörður handles the logistics, the driving, and the location scouting so you can focus on your craft. Instruction is organic; Hörður teaches in the field and provides masterclasses on editing and workflow during evening sessions.
Our workshops are demanding, with long days and changing conditions, but they are carefully paced. All difficulty levels are welcome. Because we work with small groups, Hörður can adapt the instruction to you, whether you are a total beginner or a professional. Please note: You are responsible for selecting a workshop that is appropriate for your physical health. We reserve the right to request medical clearance if deemed necessary.
Weather in Iceland is part of the experience. While poor conditions may occasionally limit flying, they often create the most dramatic photographic opportunities. Please note: Itineraries are guidelines only. No refunds or discounts are issued for itinerary changes, shortened activities, or missed locations due to weather, road conditions, or volcanic activity. We cannot guarantee specific natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights.
We travel in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4x4, modified with 35” tires. The vehicle is equipped with on-board charging stations to keep your gear powered while on the move.
Yes. Due to limited storage space in our expedition vehicle:
- Soft duffel bags only (No hard suitcases).
- Soft camera or drone backpacks are allowed.
- Maximum volume: 250 liters total per participant + your photography backpack.
Yes, but they must book a full spot. Our expeditions are highly focused on photography, often involving long hours in the field and a "chasing the light" mentality. Non-photographers are welcome to join and enjoy the scenery, provided they are comfortable with the group's dedicated photography schedule.
Breakfast: Included every day at our accommodations.
Lunch/Snacks: We usually stop at local service stations or grocery stores so you can pick up what you need for the day.
Dinner: We gather for a group Welcome Dinner on Day 1 and a Farewell Dinner on our final night (included). On other nights, we eat at local restaurants or guesthouses at your own expense.
For Highland Hut Nights: We stock up on supplies at a grocery store beforehand and prepare meals together at the hut.
Yes. Our modified 4x4 Sprinter is equipped with on-board charging stations so you can charge batteries and laptops while we move. Even during our off-grid night in the mountain hut, we carry portable power stations to ensure we never run out of juice for the next morning's shoot.
Following registration, you will receive a comprehensive welcome document detailing our exact meeting locations, gear requirements, and insights into Icelandic weather conditions. If you have any questions in the meantime or need clarification on any point, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].
Terms & Conditions:
Glacier Adventure
By booking or participating in any workshop, tour, or activity organized by Glacier Adventure, you agree to the following Terms and Conditions.
Liability & Assumption of Risk
Participation in Glacier Adventure workshops involves inherent risks. By enrolling in a workshop, you acknowledge and accept that travel and outdoor activities; particularly in Iceland’s remote and natural environments, carry risks, including but not limited to injury, illness, loss, damage to personal property, or death.
By accepting these Terms and Conditions, you voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation and release Glacier Adventure, its owners, employees, guides, contractors, and partners from liability for any injury, loss, damage, or expense, whether physical or mental, known or unknown, arising from your participation.
Activities may take place in remote, mountainous, coastal, or wilderness areas where infrastructure and medical services may be limited or unavailable. Glacier Adventure assumes no responsibility for medical treatment, evacuation, or dietary requirements. Unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and with written approval, participants must be at least 18 years of age.
Equipment Liability & Personal Responsibility
Participants are 100% responsible for the safety and operation of their own equipment, including drones, cameras, lenses, and laptops. Glacier Adventure and its guides assume no liability for equipment damage, loss, theft, or total loss (including drone crashes, flyaways, or water damage), even if the incident occurs while following suggestions or flight paths provided by a guide.
Physical Fitness & Responsibility
You are responsible for selecting a workshop appropriate to your physical condition and experience. By booking, you confirm that you are in sufficiently good health to participate and that no condition exists that could endanger yourself or others. Glacier Adventure reserves the right to request medical clearance when deemed necessary and to refuse or discontinue participation if a participant is unable to safely take part in workshop activities.
Itineraries & Flexibility
Workshop itineraries are carefully planned but serve as guidelines only. Weather, road conditions, safety considerations, government regulations, volcanic activity, or other unforeseen circumstances may require changes to locations, timing, or activities. You acknowledge that flexibility is required and that no refunds or discounts will be issued for itinerary changes, shortened activities, or missed locations due to circumstances beyond our control. Glacier Adventure cannot guarantee visits to specific locations, wildlife sightings, natural phenomena (including northern lights), or specific flying conditions for drones.
Drone Use & Regulations
Drone use in Iceland is regulated. Participants are responsible for ensuring their drone is legally registered and operated in accordance with Icelandic and EASA regulations. Please find information about how to obtain the A1/A3 licence through the following link: https://flydrone.is/register
Glacier Adventure will guide participants on permitted flight areas and safe operation, but bears no responsibility for fines, confiscation, or legal consequences resulting from non-compliance with regulations.
Health, Pandemics & Travel Risk
You travel at your own risk at all times. Glacier Adventure is not responsible for disruptions caused by illness, pandemics, government restrictions, or other events beyond its control. Participants are encouraged to follow Icelandic health authority guidelines. Glacier Adventure assumes no financial responsibility for delays, cancellations, or additional expenses caused by health-related issues.
Arbitration & Governing Law
These Terms and Conditions are governed by Icelandic law. Any disputes arising from participation shall be resolved before the District Court of Reykjavík, Iceland.
Cancellation or Changes by Glacier Adventure
Glacier Adventure reserves the right to cancel or modify a workshop at any time due to insufficient bookings, safety concerns, or circumstances beyond our control (including Force Majeure events such as volcanic eruptions or aviation disruptions). If a workshop is canceled by Glacier Adventure, we may:
- Reschedule the workshop
- Offer credit toward a future workshop
- Issue a full refund
Our financial liability is limited to the amount paid directly to Glacier Adventure and does not extend to other travel expenses such as flights, accommodation outside the workshop, insurance, or personal equipment.
Punctuality & Late Arrival
Participants are responsible for arriving at the designated meeting point at the specified time. Glacier Adventure is not responsible for missed departures due to flight delays or personal travel disruptions. Any costs associated with catching up to the group in the field are the sole responsibility of the participant.
Participant Conduct & Media Release
Participants are expected to behave respectfully toward guides, fellow participants, locations, and the environment. Harassment, abusive behavior, or unsafe conduct—verbal or physical—may result in immediate removal from the workshop without refund or compensation.
By participating, you grant Glacier Adventure and its guides the right to capture and use "behind-the-scenes" photography and video footage of the workshop (which may include your likeness) for promotional and marketing purposes.
Payments
A workshop seat is not confirmed until the required deposit has been paid and written confirmation has been issued by Glacier Adventure. Full payment deadlines are stated on each individual workshop page. Failure to meet payment deadlines may result in loss of your reservation. Glacier Adventure reserves the right to adjust workshop pricing due to significant currency fluctuations.
Cancellation & Refund Policy – Multi-Day Workshops
Written cancellation must be sent to [email protected] and confirmed by Glacier Adventure to be valid.
Iceland Workshops
- More than 45 days before start: refund minus deposit
- 30 days: 75% refund minus deposit
- 20 days: 50% refund minus deposit
- Less than 20 days: no refund
Deposits are non-refundable but may be transferred to another workshop if availability permits. All refunds are subject to an administrative processing fee.
What Is Not Included
Unless explicitly stated: International flights, optional activities, insurance of any kind, personal expenses and drinks, meals not listed as included, and single room supplements.
Travel Documentation & Insurance
You are responsible for holding valid travel documents, including passports, visas, and ETIAS authorization where applicable.
Mandatory Insurance:
We require all participants to hold comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation. We also strongly recommend coverage for:
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Medical treatment
- Equipment loss or damage
Third-Party Services
Glacier Adventure may rely on third-party providers for transportation, accommodation, or meals. We are not responsible for delays, cancellations, or errors caused by third parties and accept no liability for their actions.
Offers & Promotions
Discounts and promotions are valid only during stated periods, are non-transferable, and cannot be combined. Glacier Adventure reserves the right to modify or cancel promotions at any time.
Contact
For all inquiries regarding these Terms and Conditions, please contact: 📧 [email protected]
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