In Conversation: Jan Erik Waider

As the days here in London become colder, we're reminiscing on one of the most sensational wintry landscapes our label has ever visited - Iceland. Home to some of the world's most dramatic geography, Iceland can be seen on the cover of Jody Wisternoff and James Grant's recent compilation Anjunadeep 15. 

We sat down with photographer Jan Erik Waider, who shot the artwork, to learn more about his craft and how he captures these stunning spots...

What captivates you about the northern latitudes?

The northern latitudes captivate me due to their unique and diverse landscapes. These areas offer an endless variety of textures and patterns, both on a large scale and up close. The raw beauty of the vast, icy wilderness, combined with the dramatic weather conditions during the winter months, creates an environment that is both challenging and inspiring. My photography in these regions is driven by the desire to explore and document the rarely seen and remote places, capturing the fleeting moments of light and the ever-changing landscapes. This exploration is a form of meditation for me, allowing me to connect deeply with these unique environments.

You often present rarely-seen perspectives of native landscapes - what is your recce process like? What draws you to a specific place?

My work seeks to uncover the hidden beauty in nature’s details, often overlooked in traditional landscape photography. I love discovering the extraordinary in the seemingly mundane, whether at the foot of a glacier in Iceland or on my doorstep in the forest. Capturing and sharing those experiences through photos is just as important to me.

By exploring unusual perspectives and intricate patterns, my photographs reveal a world beyond the obvious motifs, inviting viewers to see familiar environments in a new light. Especially countries like Iceland offer an incredible variety of inspiring and almost otherworldly landscape types, often characterized by water and ice, which are my favorite photographic subjects. 

My recce process is all about slow, conscious travel. I prefer to immerse myself in a location, often spending several weeks in one area to truly understand its character and nuances. This approach allows me to find those unique, often overlooked details that tell a deeper story. I’m drawn to places with a sense of solitude and “untouched” beauty. The process involves a lot of walking, observing, and waiting for the right light and conditions. It's a meditative experience where I let the landscape speak to me, guiding me to the specific elements that resonate with my artistic vision.

When shooting for Anjunadeep 15, what was your vision for the final shot, and how did you achieve it?

I especially love the monochrome colour scheme of this location, combined with the dynamic element of the blue stream running through the frame. This instantly captivated me, and I wanted to capture as many scenes of the location as possible, as it was constantly changing due to its proximity to the ocean and tidal influences. I was already familiar with the overall location on the South coast of Iceland but had never seen it like this in previous years, so I knew it was quite special.

In such frigid landscapes, how do you stay patient to get the shot?

Patience in these types of landscapes stems from a profound passion for both the subject matter and photography, as well as a genuine love for being immersed in nature. The key is to embrace the environment, finding beauty in the waiting and the stillness. The anticipation of capturing a fleeting moment of extraordinary light or a unique composition is what drives me to endure and stay patient. It is also greatly about seizing opportunities and being in the right place at the right time. By dedicating up to six months each year to traveling, the chances of encountering these opportunities increase significantly.

What inspires you to focus on water and ice in your work?

Water and ice are incredibly dynamic and versatile subjects. They represent both fragility and immense power, constantly transforming and reshaping the landscape. The interplay of light with these elements creates stunning visual effects, from the translucent blue of glacial ice to the reflective surfaces of frozen lakes. Their ephemeral nature, constantly shifting and melting, mirrors the transient beauty I seek to capture in my photography. The textures, patterns, and forms that emerge in these environments offer endless possibilities for exploration and creativity, making them a central theme in my work.

How do you convey the essence of a landscape in your abstract photography?

Conveying the essence of a landscape in abstract photography involves focusing on the underlying patterns, textures, and forms that define a place. By isolating these elements, I aim to reveal the inherent beauty and character of the landscape in a way that transcends the literal and encourages viewers to see the world through a different lens. I often use a telephoto lens to capture intimate details and create compositions that highlight the harmony and balance within the chaos of nature. The abstraction allows for a more personal and emotional interpretation, inviting viewers to connect with the landscape on a deeper level.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your career as a fine art photographer?

Last year, I had the opportunity to work for Apple, capturing the abstract winter landscapes of Iceland with an iPhone 15 Pro through both video and photos. It was an incredibly interesting experience, and being commissioned by such a renowned company to do the type of work I love in my favourite location on the planet was truly special and rewarding. My work was shared with a wide audience, which for me is one of the most important currencies. Photography became my way of sharing experiences during my solo travels and my images serve as a visual diary, vividly recalling the emotions, moments, and sensory experiences of each place.

How do you think your work contributes to the broader understanding and appreciation of the northern latitudes?

My work aims to bring the remote and often inaccessible northern landscapes to a wider audience, highlighting their beauty and vulnerability. By showcasing these pristine environments through my photography, I hope to foster a deeper appreciation for their uniqueness and the critical role they play in our planet's ecosystem. My images serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving these fragile regions, encouraging viewers to reflect on the impact of climate change and the urgent need for conservation efforts. Through my work, I strive to connect people emotionally with these landscapes, inspiring a sense of stewardship and respect.

What advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to explore abstract landscape photography?

For aspiring photographers interested in abstract landscape photography, my advice is to spend as much time as possible in the field, observing and experimenting. Focus on developing a keen eye for detail and a sense of composition that goes beyond the obvious. Embrace the unpredictability of nature and learn to work with the light and weather conditions available. Patience and persistence are crucial, as is the willingness to explore and take some risks. Even a smartphone will do in the beginning to experiment and find what speaks to you. Don't be afraid to push the boundaries of traditional landscape photography to find your unique voice and style.

Can you share any locations you’re excited about exploring?

I recently returned from a long-awaited trip to Alaska, which had been on my bucket list for quite some time. The journey was fascinating, offering a wide variety of landscape types: From massive glacier landscapes to surreal-looking swamplands.

However, Iceland continues to draw me back. Next month, I will embark on my 25th trip to this island, where there is always something new to discover. This aligns with my evolving focus as both a photographer and a person. This year, the focus will be on coastal landscapes and glacial rivers, viewed from the air using both a drone and a small plane.

See Jan Erik Waider's artwork on his Instagram, or on Anjunadeep 15, out now on all platforms.