Photographer Saga Sig fell in love with Icelandic nature as a child

Icelander Saga Sig is an internationally renowned photographer, painter, and director. When perusing her photo portfolio, I can think of versatility. Her photos have many themes, but her unique style is still evident. Saga’s photos are crisp and full of life, color, and character with a dash of magic.

Saga studied photography in London. She has worked with many well-known brands and publications such as Apple, Topshop, Nike Women, Vogue, Dazed & Confused, and Icelandic outdoor clothing brand 66North. She has collaborated with such musicians as Björk, M.I.A., and Patrick Wolf.

Hey, Saga, thank you for taking the time for this interview. Have you always had a passion for photography?

Thank you so much!

Yes, from an early age! My father loves photography, and I started ‘borrowing’ his camera when I was eight. I had a magical childhood. My mother was a park ranger, and we lived in the middle of Þingvellir national park. Þingvellir is a historical site. The Vikings came together there and founded the first parliament (Alþing). The national park sits in a rift valley where the tectonic plates move apart. The beauty of the place is incredible; there is magic and unique energy in the air. I wanted to capture this beauty as a child, and my passion for photography was born.

‍You are based in Reykjavik, but you could work everywhere. What are the appeal and the challenges of being found here in Iceland?

I am based in Reykjavík now, but I used to live and work in London for eight years. What I love about Reykjavik is the quality of life we have. First of all, it’s the closeness to family and friends; you are almost always 5 minutes away from them. The water is pure and what I missed when I was living in London was central heating! It’s always warm inside here in Iceland! I also missed the swimming pools! You have to be versatile as a photographer – I direct and teach too! Companies like to shoot here, and I have worked with Apple and Nike here in Iceland. It suits me to be based here, and now it will be easier to travel to work again.

You recently did a project with Vogue about the tradition of baking rye bread in the ground. Can you tell me readers about that?

I went and shot the fantastic Gísli Matt. He is the chef and owner of the restaurant Slippurinn on Westman Islands, which I recommend. In 1973, there was an eruption on the island, and many lost their homes. When people moved back, they used the heat from the volcano to heat their houses and bake bread. There is still some heat in the lava, and Gísli baked the excellent bread “Rúgbrauð” there. It is worth mentioning that Gísli recently published a book with Phaidon.

What should photographers have in mind when photographing Icelandic nature?

Nature in Iceland is wonderful and powerful, but it is not a movie set, respect mother nature! I have sometimes seen people big take risks just for a good photograph. The tides can be super strong, and the weather is unpredictable, especially in the winter. So prepare and don’t take any unnecessary risks.

Do you have favorite places and activities in Iceland that you want to recommend to my readers?

Reykjavík has a lot to offer, so make sure to spend some time in the city. Here are some favorites: In Reykjavík, check out Icelandic design! Stores like Steinunn, Kiosk og Hildur Yeoman are perfect. Food in Reykjavík Skál!, Sumac, Coocos Nest, Matur & Drykkur, Hósiló and Matbar are great, coffee at Te & Kaffi or Mikki Refur.  Go to the Marshall house for food and art. For nature, I love þingvellir, of course. It is only 40 min drive from Reykjavik. Golden Circle is a classic. I recommend staying at Hotel Geysir, it is my favorite hotel. I also really love Ásbyrgi and the Westfjords.

What advice do you have for those visiting Iceland for the first time?

Go swimming, spend time in nature & water! We have so many fantastic swimming pools and places to go bathing. It is so healing, so that’s a must.