Iceland has become a global hotspot for filmmakers, brands, and content creators seeking visually stunning backdrops. Its otherworldly landscapes—from glaciers and volcanoes to black sand beaches and waterfalls—offer cinematic opportunities that few countries can match. For anyone looking to capture Iceland’s unique beauty on film, partnering with a professional production company in Iceland is essential.
Whether you are producing a commercial, corporate video, music video, or documentary, a skilled production company ensures your project runs smoothly, stays on budget, and delivers high-quality results. This article explores the world of video production in Iceland, the services offered by local production companies, and tips for choosing the right partner for your project.
Why Iceland Is the Ultimate Destination for Video Production
1. Dramatic Natural Landscapes
Iceland’s terrain is incredibly diverse. From the volcanic fields of Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull to the glacial lagoons of Jökulsárlón and waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss, filmmakers have access to landscapes that provide striking visuals for any project. These natural backdrops are ideal for storytelling, commercials, travel videos, and cinematic productions.
2. Unique Seasonal Opportunities
Iceland’s extreme seasonal changes allow for distinct creative opportunities. Summer brings long daylight hours due to the midnight sun, giving filmmakers extended shooting time. Winter transforms the scenery with snow, ice, and the ethereal Northern Lights, creating stunning visuals not found anywhere else in the world.
3. Accessible Locations and Infrastructure
Despite its remote and rugged appearance, Iceland has excellent infrastructure. Well-maintained roads, airports, and accommodation options make it possible to reach even some of the country’s most remote locations. Experienced production companies can manage logistics, including crew transport and equipment handling, making complex shoots more manageable.
4. Filming Incentives
The Icelandic government supports film and video production through tax incentives, streamlined permitting, and assistance with logistics. International filmmakers and brands benefit from these policies, making Iceland both a visually and financially appealing filming destination.
Services Offered by Production Companies in Iceland
A professional production company in Iceland can handle every aspect of a video project, from planning to post-production. Their services often include:
1. Pre-Production Planning
The foundation of a successful video project lies in thorough pre-production. Icelandic production companies offer:
- Scriptwriting and storyboarding
- Location scouting for the most visually compelling sites
- Scheduling around Icelandic weather and natural light conditions
- Permit acquisition for protected and private areas
- Logistics planning, including transportation, accommodation, and safety measures
Proper pre-production minimizes risks, ensures efficiency, and maximizes the quality of the final footage.
2. Full-Scale Production
Production companies provide professional crews and equipment for filming:
- High-quality camera operation (4K, 6K, and 8K cameras)
- Drone filming for breathtaking aerial shots
- Stabilizers and gimbals for smooth motion sequences
- Lighting setups suitable for Iceland’s variable conditions
- Sound recording and management for outdoor environments
Skilled crews are especially important in Iceland, where weather conditions can change rapidly and terrain can be challenging.
3. Post-Production Services
Once filming is complete, post-production turns raw footage into a polished final product. Services include:
- Video editing and colour grading
- Visual effects (VFX) and motion graphics
- Audio mixing and sound design
- Subtitles, translations, and localization for global audiences
A complete post-production service ensures your content is professional, engaging, and ready for broadcast or online distribution.
4. Corporate and Commercial Videos
Many production companies in Iceland specialize in creating promotional and corporate videos. Using Iceland’s landscapes creatively helps brands tell compelling stories and create impactful campaigns that stand out in international markets.
5. Documentary and Travel Video Production
Iceland’s natural beauty makes it ideal for documentaries and travel content. Local production companies manage multiple locations, drone filming, interviews, and b-roll, delivering a professional and authentic storytelling experience.
Why Partnering with a Local Production Company Matters
Working with a local video production in Iceland has several advantages:
1. Expert Knowledge of Locations
Local companies know the best locations for visual impact and accessibility. They can adapt plans quickly if weather or road conditions change, ensuring the shoot remains on schedule.
2. Skilled Crews and Equipment
Professional Icelandic crews are trained to operate advanced equipment in extreme conditions. From drone operators to cinematographers, local teams ensure every shot is executed safely and creatively.
3. Efficient Logistics
Filming in remote locations requires careful planning. Local companies handle transportation, accommodation, and equipment logistics, allowing filmmakers to focus on the creative aspects of the project.
4. Compliance and Legal Support
Many of Iceland’s most scenic locations require filming permits. Local production companies manage all legal requirements, ensuring your project complies with regulations and avoids unnecessary delays.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Production Company in Iceland
Selecting the right production company can make or break a project. Consider the following:
1. Portfolio and Experience
Review past projects to ensure the company has experience in the type of production you need, whether it’s a corporate video, commercial, documentary, or music video.
2. Technical Capability
Ensure the company has access to high-end cameras, drones, stabilizers, and lighting equipment to handle the challenges of Icelandic landscapes.
3. Full-Service Capabilities
A production company offering pre-production, production, and post-production services can streamline the workflow, reducing risk and ensuring consistency.
4. Local Knowledge
Icelandic crews understand weather patterns, road conditions, and seasonal changes, which helps optimize location choices and schedules.
5. Client Testimonials
Check reviews, case studies, and references to gauge professionalism, reliability, and creativity.
Tips for Successful Video Production in Iceland
- Plan for Weather: Iceland’s weather is unpredictable. Build flexibility into your schedule for outdoor shoots.
- Use Drones for Aerial Shots: Drones capture the scale and beauty of Iceland’s landscapes from unique perspectives.
- Choose the Right Season: Summer offers long daylight hours; winter provides snow, ice, and auroras for dramatic visuals.
- Protect Equipment: Cold, wind, and moisture can damage gear. Experienced crews know how to safeguard cameras and drones.
- Respect the Environment: Sustainable filming practices are essential to protect Iceland’s fragile ecosystems.
Conclusion
Iceland is a world-class destination for video production, offering dramatic landscapes, unique seasonal conditions, and professional production support. Partnering with a trusted production company in Iceland ensures that every stage of your project—from pre-production to post-production—is handled with expertise and precision.
Whether you are producing a corporate video, commercial, music video, or documentary, Iceland provides unmatched cinematic opportunities. By choosing the right production company, you gain access to skilled crews, high-quality equipment, and local knowledge, allowing your vision to come to life with creativity and impact.