Lofoten Photography Guide

Discover the stunning beauty of Norway’s Lofoten Islands through the lens of your camera with our comprehensive Lofoten Photography Guide with the best photo spots in Lofoten. The Norwegian archipelago of Lofoten, just above the Arctic Circle, is a photographer’s dream. Lofoten has become a famous destination for photographers from all over the world due to its breathtaking scenery, pristine waters, and distinct culture. Several islands make up the archipelago, and they all have their own unique appeal. Because of the numerous bridges and tunnels that connect the various islands, sightseeing is a breeze. The charming villages with their brilliantly painted wooden buildings, flanked by mountains and fjords, make for some very breathtaking shots.

Why Lofoten?

Because the landscapes are out of this world

The mountains and fjords of Lofoten are its most distinctive natural features. The jagged peaks emerge suddenly from the sea, making for a breathtaking contrast with the smooth surface of the water below. Mount Olstind in Reine stands out as the most well-known of these mountains, and has come to represent the stunning landscapes of Lofoten.

The culture of Lofoten is one of the most interesting things about the region. The islands’ long history of fishing has led to the preservation of many of their original fishing communities. Colorful wooden homes, boats, and racks of dried cod may be seen in these fishing communities. Photographers will enjoy the country’s historic buildings and way of life.

The luminous beauty of Lofoten is another of its hallmarks. The area lies within the Arctic Circle, where the sun never sets in the summer. Because of this, the sun never completely sets, giving forth a special, ethereal light that is popular among photographers. The “blue hour,” which occurs between sunset and daybreak, is particularly beautiful due to the light’s gentle, diffuse quality.

Snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and the possibility of witnessing the northern lights make winter in Lofoten just as beautiful as summer. One of the greatest spots to see the aurora borealis, a natural phenomenon only visible in the arctic areas, is in Lofoten. Photographs of the aurora, which can look like a bright dance across the sky, are guaranteed to be keepsakes.


The Norwegian island of Lofoten should be on the itinerary of every serious photographer or amateur. This area is a photographer’s paradise thanks to its breathtaking scenery, diverse culture, and superb lighting conditions. There’s a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes to photograph, from the towering mountains and fjords to the little fishing villages and beautiful beaches.

The optimum time to visit Lofoten should be taken into account while making travel plans. Summer is the most popular time, as the weather is nice and the days are long. Winter, on the other hand, brings its own special allure thanks to the possibility of witnessing the northern lights and exploring the region’s snowy landscapes.

For convenience’s sake, automobile rental is recommended for getting around Lofoten. While bridges and tunnels can get you from island to island, public transit options are limited. Book ahead of time if you plan on using one of the several vehicle rental services in the area, since they tend to fill up quickly during busy times.

Camping and five-star hotels are both available in Lofoten. There are also several B&Bs and holiday rentals to choose from. At the busiest times of the year, hotels and other lodgings tend to fill up rapidly.

Soccer field and harbour in Henningsvaer

Henningsvaer, Norway

Location: Henningsvær
Best time: sunrise
Photography Equipment: Drone
Photospot(s): 68°08’54.6″N 14°12’05.5″E / 68°09’02.8″N 14°12’04.6″E
Short Info: incredible drone spot, but also beautiful village for still photography around the harbor. Make sure to come early are stay over night. The hikes are exhausting, don’t take to heavy stuff with you!

Maybe you’ve seen pictures of this unique soccer field on an island in the middle of nowhere and wonder where it is? The picturesque village is called Henningsvær and is located in Norway.
Henningsvær, a little fishing community on the Norwegian island of Austvågøya in the Lofoten archipelago, is a hidden treasure that has grown in popularity among tourists in recent years. The magnificent football pitch on a small island in the centre of the bay is one of the village’s most famous attractions. This one-of-a-kind football pitch has been covered among worldwide news agencies.

The soccer pitch, formally known as Henningsvær Stadion, is home to the Henningsvær IL football team. The Lofoten Islands’ outstanding natural splendour surrounds the field, with towering mountains and crystal-clear waters providing a breathtaking backdrop for games. The pitch is also illuminated at night, which allows for nighttime games and creates a magnificent ambiance. Apart from the football pitch, Henningsvær is a lovely village with a long history and culture. Many art galleries and museums in the village showcase the Lofoten Islands’ distinct artistic legacy. Tourists can also engage in outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and kayaking, as well as explore the village’s tiny alleys and classic wooden buildings.

Tindstinden Hike Trailhead at Sorvagen

Sorvagen, Norway⁠

Location: Sørvågen
Best time: afternoon / sunset
Photography Equipment: drone + standard lens
Photospot(s): 67°54’02.6″N 13°00’22.7″E | 67°53’42.2″N 13°00’28.1″E
Short Info: A lot of amazing hikes with amazing views. Don’t forget to take your drone.

Sørvågen is a lovely fishing village on the southern coast of Moskenesøya island in the Lofoten archipelago of Norway. It is a famous tourist destination due to its spectacular natural beauty, vibrant waterfront, and rich cultural legacy.

The Tindstinden walk trailhead, which begins just outside the hamlet, is one of Sørvågen’s biggest attractions. The walk is well-known for its spectacular views of the surrounding scenery, particularly the numerous lakes. The walk is rather difficult, with steep climbs and rough terrain, but the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking views from the summit. The lakes in the area are extremely popular with visitors. The crystal-clear waters contrast beautifully with the rough hillsides and cliffs that surround them, providing some absolutely breathtaking photo opportunities.
Sørvågen is a must-see location for everyone visiting the Lofoten Islands. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of Norway, Sørvågen has something for everyone. The Tindstinden walk trailhead and the area’s magnificent lakes are only two of the many reasons why Sørvågen is a must-see in Lofoten.

Fishertown Nusfjord and its scenic road

Nusfjord, Norway

Location: Nusfjord
Best time: all day long
Photography Equipment: drone + standard lens
Photospot(s): 68°02’08.0″N 13°21’01.9″E | 68°02’03.2″N 13°20’47.9″E | 68°03’41.1″N 13°19’14.5″E
Short Info: The scenic road is absolutely amazing. There are several stopping bay along the road.

Nusfjord is a historic fishing community in Norway’s Lofoten archipelago. The settlement, which goes back to the 1700s, is one of the region’s oldest and best-preserved fishing villages. Nusfjord is a popular location for Lofoten visitors, providing a look into the islands’ traditional way of life. Many well-preserved houses can be seen in the settlement, notably the iconic red-painted fisherman’s cottages known as “rorbuer.” These huts were previously occupied by fisherman who came to the islands in the winter to catch cod. Many of these cabins have now been turned into pleasant guesthouses, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the life of a traditional Norwegian fishing community.

Apart from its historic structures, Nusfjord is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The settlement is situated on the banks of a secluded bay, surrounded by towering mountains and clear sea. Guests can participate in outdoor activities like as hiking and fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings. Nusfjord is a must-see attraction for everyone visiting the Lofoten Islands. Nusfjord has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in photography, history and culture or simply want to experience the natural beauty of Norway.

Reine & Reinebringen

Reine, Norway⁠

Location: Reine
Best time: morning
Photography Equipment: wide lens / drone
Photospot(s): 67°55’42.3″N 13°05’04.8″E | 67°55’38.4″N 13°04’28.9″E
Short Info: Park your car here and walk to the trail starting point

Reine is a lovely fishing village in the middle of the Lofoten archipelago in Norway. Because of its magnificent natural beauty and colorful wooden cottages, it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in the world.
The walk up to Reinebringen is one of the pleasures of every trip to Reine. The trail begins in the hamlet and ascends the mountain, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Hikers are rewarded at the top with panoramic views of the entire area, including Reine and the adjacent fjords. Reinebringen is widely regarded as one of the top walks in Norway, owing to its breathtaking scenery and difficult terrain. While the trail is short, it is steep and rocky, making it a difficult walk for some tourists. Yet, the breathtaking views from the top make the effort worthwhile.
Reine and Reinebringen are must-sees for anybody visiting the Lofoten Islands. Reine has something for everyone, whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of Norway.

Yellow houses of Sakrisoy

Sakrisoy, Norway

Location: Sakrisøy
Best time: sunrise
Photography Equipment: wide angle + standard lens
Photospot(s): 67°56’29.8″N 13°06’50.7″E | 67°56’28.7″N 13°06’56.3″E
Short Info:

Sakrisøy’s yellow homes are one of the most recognizable sites in Norway’s Lofoten archipelago. The settlement is famed for its vividly colored wooden cottages and outstanding natural beauty, and is located on a small island just off the coast of Moskenesya.
Because of their unusual and colorful look, the yellow cottages of Sakrisøy are a favourite destination for photographers. The stark contrast between the bright yellow homes and the surrounding mountains and sea generates a spectacular visual effect, making it a popular subject for landscape photographers.

Flakstad and surroundings

Flakstad, Norway⁠

Location: Flakstad
Best time: all day
Photography Equipment: drone + tele lens
Photospot(s): 68°04’31.6″N 13°19’12.3″E | 68°04’59.9″N 13°17’31.9″E
Short Info: also beautiful hikes to the mountain tops

Flakstad is a lovely municipality in Norway’s Lofoten archipelago. Flakstad is a popular location for outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers due to its remarkable natural beauty. The spectacular Flakstadpollen fjord, which spans for over 10 kilometers and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea, is one of Flakstad’s most notable characteristics. The fjord is home to numerous small fishing communities, notably Napp and Ramberg, which provide visitors with a glimpse into the Lofoten Islands’ traditional way of life. Tourists can also engage in outdoor activities including as hiking, fishing, and kayaking, as well as explore the fjord’s gorgeous sandy beaches.
Flakstad, in addition to its natural beauty, has a number of cultural and historical attractions. The Flakstad Church, erected in the 18th century, is a spectacular example of traditional Norwegian architecture, while the Flakstad Old Trade Post, located in Ramberg, provides tourists with an insight into the region’s rich cultural past. Flakstad is a must-see for anybody visiting the Lofoten Islands, and the breathtaking Flakstadpollen fjord is only one of the many reasons why. Flakstad has something for everyone, whether you want to explore the outdoors, learn about the region’s history and culture, or simply relax and enjoy Norway’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Red houses of Hamnoy

Hamnoy, Norway

Location: Hamnøy
Best time: sunrise / sunset
Photography Equipment: wide angle + standard lens
Photospot(s): 67°56’43.3″N 13°07’54.0″E | 67°56’30.0″N 13°07’06.4″E
Short Info: stroll around with your camera

Another renowned site in Norway’s Lofoten archipelago is Hamnoy’s crimson homes. The community is famed for its attractive red-painted fisherman huts that stand out against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains and sea.
The bridge that connects Hamnoy to the next island is one of the greatest spots to see the red houses. With the colorful houses bordering the seashore and the gorgeous mountains rising up in the distance, the view from the bridge is simply breathtaking.

Svolvaer Harbor

Svolvaer, Norway⁠

Location: Svolvær
Best time: morning / evening
Photography Equipment: drone + tele lens
Photospot(s): 68°14’00.1″N 14°34’50.4″E | 68°13’28.2″N 14°33’47.7″E
Short Info: there is no super spectacular photo spot here, but a lot of beautiful ones

Photographers visiting Svolvaer will find an astounding variety of subjects to shoot with their cameras. The bustling waterfront, bright fishing boats, and breathtaking natural environment offer limitless options for artistic creativity.
Aside from the town itself, Svolvaer is an excellent starting point for visiting the neighboring islands and fjords, where you may photograph stunning vistas and wildlife. The adjacent mountains and beaches provide spectacular views at all times of day, with the light changing greatly depending on the season.
Svolvaer is a must-see place for photographers visiting the Lofoten Islands, whether they are interested in scenery, animal, or street photography. With its dynamic atmosphere and magnificent natural beauty, the town offers a plethora of options for unforgettable photographs.

Bridged crossroads of Fredvangskrysset

Fredvangskrysset, Norway

Location: Fredvangskrysset
Best time: morning / evening
Photography Equipment: drone
Photospot(s): 68°05’01.0″N 13°11’24.0″E
Short Info: spectacular drone location

Drone photographers will get an unforgettable shot of the Lofoten Islands at Fredvangskrysset, the famous crossroads. From above, the crossroads stands out against the backdrop of soaring mountains and glistening waterways.

Fredvangskrysset’s spectacular landscape and wide variety of interesting subjects make it a fertile ground for artistic exploration. Flying over Fredvangskrysset will provide you great ideas for your next painting or photograph, whether you’re drawn to the vivid hues of the autumn foliage or the stark beauty of the winter landscape.

Best accommodations

Lofoten, Norway

Norway’s Lofoten is a picture-perfect paradise recognised for its amazing natural beauty and jaw-dropping scenery. And the area does not fall short in terms of accommodations. Visitors to Lofoten have a variety of excellent lodges to choose from. Each lodging offers a distinctive and immersive experience, from quaint cabins situated on the fjords’ edge to opulent hotels hidden among the gorgeous mountains. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a peaceful break to unwind or an exciting holiday, Lofoten’s magnificent lodges offer the ideal base to explore and fully appreciate the allure of this Norwegian wilderness.

Tobiasbrygga

Tobiasbrygga

  • 2min walk to soccer field
  • Parking included
  • At the water
  • Check at Booking.com

    Eliassen Rorbuer

    Eliassen Rorbuer

  • Best starting point for the area
  • Large lodges directly at the sea
  • Free parking
  • Check at Booking.com

    Hattvika Lodge

    Hattvika Lodge

  • Modern lodges
  • Amazing staff
  • Great starting point
  • Check at Booking.com

    Olstind in Sakrisøy

    Olstind in Sakrisøy

  • Most picturesque location to stay
  • Great to explore Reine
  • Close to Reinebringen
  • Check at Booking.com

    Lofoten Photography Guide - Henningvaer Soccer Field