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Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur is a dramatic glacial canyon in southern Iceland, stretching roughly two kilometers long and dropping up to 100 meters deep, with moss-covered basalt walls and the pale blue Fjaðrá river weaving through the bottom. The classic shot is from the elevated rim trail, where you can look down along the canyon's serpentine curves using the river as a leading line; a wide angle lens in the 16-24mm range works well here to capture both the sweeping depth and the lush green walls. Overcast days are ideal since soft diffused light eliminates harsh shadows in the canyon floor and brings out the vivid color of the moss. The trail runs along the top edge and offers multiple overlooks, so take your time working each one rather than stopping only at the first viewpoint. Polarizing filters help cut glare off the water below. Parking is straightforward at the trailhead, and the walk is relatively easy. (Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Southern Region, Iceland)

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