ION Hotel Wedding Photographer – Iceland Wedding Photography by Andy Gaines

Theirs was a small and intimate affair.  The venue they chose was the remote and simply stunning Ion Hotel, one hours drive from Reykjavik.  A wondrous modernist concrete creation that stands proud against the landscape – and despite the driving rain also provided the backdrop (and a bit of shelter!) for Rachel and Dave’s first look.

After a simple and beautiful lakeside ceremony, braving the wind and rain and surrounded by the friends who followed them across the earth, we all headed back for the luxury and warmth of the Ion Hotel to eat, drank and party the night away – including some Icelandic liqueur shots were beyond potent…!

Dave and Rachel stayed on in Iceland for their honeymoon, and so the day after the wedding we headed off with some of their guests to see some sights, explore some of this amazing country and make some more pictures! An incredible few days I’ll never forget with a bunch of people whose love, fondness and friendship for each other are inspiring and wonderful in equal measure. Amazing!

Andy x

I was thrilled to be asked to accompany Rachel and Dave on their elopement!  I would love nothing more than to go back to Iceland and create some fantastic images there for you. If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable ION Hotel wedding in Iceland – all dramatic landscapes, geothermal backdrops, and modern Nordic design – you’re in the right place. I’m Andy, an experienced destination wedding photographer who specialises in documenting real, emotional moments in extraordinary places. The ION Adventure Hotel in Nesjavellir is one of the most iconic and visually striking venues in Iceland, and it’s an incredible canvas for telling your wedding story.

A Unique Setting for Your Iceland Elopement or Wedding

Perched on the edge of Þingvellir National Park and surrounded by lava fields, hot springs, and snow-capped mountains, ION Adventure Hotel isn’t just a wedding venue – it’s an experience. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a wild celebration with family and friends, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and Nordic luxury.

As a wedding photographer at the ION Hotel, I’ve captured the raw beauty of this location alongside the intimate connections between couples and their guests. It’s not about staged photos — it’s about real moments, honest emotion, and the feeling of being surrounded by the wild beauty of Iceland.

Why ION Hotel Is Perfect for Natural, Candid Wedding Photography

From the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Northern Lights Bar to the surreal geothermal surroundings, ION Hotel weddings offer natural light, atmosphere, and architectural interest in spades. It’s the kind of setting where genuine moments happen effortlessly – and that’s what I’m all about.

I don’t believe in stiff posing or interrupting your day for endless photos. Instead, I let things unfold naturally and capture the full story: the laughter, the tears, the icy wind, the warm hugs, the firelight. All the good stuff.

Destination Wedding Experience That Goes Beyond the Photos

I’ve photographed weddings all over the world and have worked with many international couples – especially those choosing Iceland as their destination. I can help you navigate logistics, local timings, and how to make the most of the light (or lack of it!). More than just a photographer, I’m there as a calm presence and helping hand throughout the journey.

Planning Your ION Hotel Wedding? Let’s Chat.

If you’re planning a wedding at ION Hotel and want your photography to feel natural, meaningful, and truly you, I’d love to hear more about your plans. I take on a limited number of destination weddings each year so I can give each couple the experience they deserve.

Click below to check availability, request a brochure, or just say hi! 🙂