Stuvdalsvatnet

Stuvdalsvatnet is a remote alpine lake nestled in the mountains above Sørvågen on the Lofoten Islands, offering a classic Nordic scene of still water reflecting jagged peaks and open sky. The lake itself works best as a foreground element, so position yourself low at the water's edge to catch reflections of the surrounding ridgelines, especially on calm mornings before wind picks up. A wide angle lens in the 16 to 24mm range lets you pull in both the lake and the dramatic peaks above. The trail from Sørvågen passes a waterfall and wildflower meadows, both worth stopping for on the way up. Golden hour light in the evening rakes across the rocky faces beautifully, and in summer the midnight sun gives you warm directional light at unusual hours. Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven, and allow extra time to shoot the approach trail, not just the lake itself. (Sørvågen, Lofoten Islands, Norway)