Are you dreaming of a winter getaway? We’ve got the perfect adventure lined up for you. There’s nothing quite like exploring the Southern Alps during the colder season, and better yet, a Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike to put the cherry on top of your trip. Franz Josef Glacier is a unique glacial experience and an absolute must for your bucket list or travel list.
If you’re considering exploring the glacier and bringing your camera along for the journey, we’ve got some helpful photography tips that will make your time on the ice truly unforgettable. So, before strapping on your crampons, we’ll walk you through how to take professional glacier shots in winter and capture those iconic shots that will leave you with lifelong memories. Let’s get started!
Winter Moments & Glacier Photography
Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most spectacular destinations on the South Island, waiting to be discovered. With icy cravasses, deep blue caves and sweeping views of snowy landscapes, it’s the ultimate winter playground for photographers.
The colder months in Franz Josef offer a whole new world, bringing out unique and rare opportunities for photographers to capture the glacier in its most dramatic form. Winter brings lower light angles, which is ideal for photos, and the ice structures stay crisper for longer. The glacier’s pristine setting provides a stunning backdrop, and when the sun peeks through from behind large crevasses, it creates a golden-hour glow that can last for hours. It’s perfect for those wide-angle shots.
Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike Photography Tips
As one of the most popular Glacier experiences offered by True South Flights, this day is filled with spectacular scenery and being prepared is key to getting the best photos. Whether you’re using a mirrorless camera, DSLR or even your smartphone, here are four important tips to keep in mind while you’re preparing to shoot on the glacier in winter.
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Tip 1: Consider Various Lighting Conditions
We mentioned before that winter at the glacier offers lower lighting opportunities as the sun sits lower in the sky. Don’t worry, this can work in your favour. The softer, indirect light can bring out depth and texture in the ice, providing the best natural light you’ll probably ever take pictures in. If you arrive at a time after fresh snowfall has occurred, along with a clear sky, you’ll be sure to be in for a treat to capture some incredible images. For those using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, consider bringing along a polarising filter, which will reduce any glare and increase contrast between the sky and icy surfaces.
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Tip 2: Composition & Layout is Key
One thing you might not realise before arriving at the glacier is its immense size. The ice walls are quite tall, reaching several meters in height, with some even standing at 10 meters, so the scale is something to consider as you take photos. You could even include a person in the frame to showcase the glacier’s grandeur. Capture the glacier’s natural beauty; its curves, layers, and depth are fantastic shapes to incorporate into your layout.
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Tip 3: Document the Journey
While you might think to capture the ice itself, consider getting images of the entire experience. From the moment you take off in the helicopter, to your hiking group navigating the glacier or putting on their crampons and even your boots crunching through fresh snow. Photos like this tell a story about the adventure you’ve experienced, evoking emotions of excitement and joy.
You can also incorporate some close-up shots of blue ice caves, the sunlight beaming behind untouched ridges, or your tour guide taking a moment to pause during the hike with an ice axe. Different types of shots can create a visual rhythm in your photo collection.
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Tip 4: Dress Appropriately & Protect Your Gear
When you arrive at the glacier, you are truly entering into a winter wonderland. The temperatures during a Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike in winter can bring the coldest conditions with daytime temperatures around 12°C, potentially dropping as low as 2°C. Remember to wear the correct clothing, including a waterproof jacket and pants, thermals, gloves, socks, and boots. This will ensure you are comfortable throughout the journey and can focus on getting those shots without feeling overwhelmed by the frosty temperatures.
It’s essential not only to protect yourself, but also your camera gear. The extreme cold and moisture can affect your equipment, so keep your batteries warm in your pockets or backpack, as the cold will drain them even before you can take your next shot. It’s a good idea to bring a waterproof camera cover or dry bag to avoid condensation interfering with your gear. Overall, remember to keep your equipment sealed when it’s not in use.
Ready to Book Your Glacier Adventure?
Get ready to capture Franz Josef glacier from every angle with True South Flights! If you want to combine the ultimate adventure of a Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike with incredible imagery, now’s the time to book your tour. Our True South Flights team is here to help make your glacier experience smooth from booking to touchdown. Get in touch today and find out how you can reserve a spot on this incredible journey.
