Driving through Iceland feels like navigating an endless gallery of perfect photographs—each turn revealing another postcard-worthy vista. What the tourism brochures don't mention is how difficult it can be to actually stop and photograph these scenes. The roads are narrow, winding, and notably lacking shoulders in most places. For days, we'd been spotting groups of the iconic Icelandic horses grazing in distant fields, but finding a safe place to pull over had proven nearly impossible.
I'd almost resigned myself to capturing these beautiful creatures only in my memory when we rounded a bend and spotted not only a small group of horses but also—finally—a proper place to pull off safely. Sometimes photography is about planning and patience, but equally often, it's about seizing fleeting opportunities.
The Approach
As I gathered my gear, Corey decided to walk ahead into the field. I immediately recognized the photographic potential. Rather than rushing toward the horses myself, I hung back, framing Corey's blue-jacketed figure against the golden field and the soft-focused horses beyond.
When approaching wildlife, the key is slow, deliberate movement. Icelandic horses, while technically "wild," are generally accustomed to human presence. Still, respect is essential. I instructed Corey to move unhurriedly, never directly toward the horses, but at an angle that would bring her gradually closer without appearing threatening.
The technique worked perfectly. The horses remained calm, curious even, creating the ideal conditions for this environmental portrait that captures both the human experience and the natural setting.
The Cinematic Moment
As soon as Corey began walking through the golden grass, with that whimsical pom-pom hat catching the light, I was immediately reminded of scenes from Gladiator—a solitary figure moving through waving fields toward destiny. The image became about more than just horses; it transformed into a story about our human connection to these wild spaces and creatures.
What makes this image work is the sense of scale. Corey's figure helps viewers understand both the vastness of the Icelandic landscape and the presence of these beautiful horses. The back-facing perspective allows viewers to project themselves into the scene, imagining their own approach through the golden field.
Patience Rewards the Prepared
This photograph reminds me that some of the most compelling wildlife images don't necessarily show close-ups of animals, but rather tell the story of our relationship with them. The narrow roads of Iceland may not make wildlife photography easy, but that challenge only makes moments like this more rewarding.
When traveling on roads without shoulders, always keep your camera accessible and settings ready. That perfect pull-off spot might appear unexpectedly, and you'll want to be prepared to capture the moment before it passes.
Have you had an unexpected wildlife encounter during your travels? I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below.
