Nordenskjöld Lake

Nordenskjöld Lake is one of the most striking bodies of water in Patagonia, its milky turquoise color the result of glacial flour suspended in the water, creating an almost surreal foreground that contrasts beautifully against the jagged peaks of Cuernos del Paine rising behind it. The classic composition places the lake in the lower third of the frame with the dramatic ridgeline filling the sky above, and you can find strong vantage points along the road and hiking trails that run parallel to the northern shore. Midday light, usually harsh elsewhere, actually works well here because it saturates the glacial blue tones in the water. A wide angle lens between 16 and 24mm helps you capture both the lake and the peaks together, while a polarizing filter will cut glare and deepen that turquoise color significantly. Wind can be intense, so brace your tripod carefully. (Torres del Paine National Park, Magallanes, Chile)