Canonical URL: https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/ # Photographing Puffins & other Birds of Grímsey Island Published on July 8, 2025 [![A Lone Atlantic Puffin Standing On A Rocky Coastal Cliff Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/A-lone-Atlantic-Puffin-standing-on-a-rocky-coastal-cliff-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island-1024x683.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/A-lone-Atlantic-Puffin-standing-on-a-rocky-coastal-cliff-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) Words & images contributed by [Alison Jenkins](https://natureslens.co.uk/guides/alison/). **Grímsey Island**, a remote speck of land straddling the **Arctic Circle**, is a **productive for bird photographers**. Recognised for its dense [seabird](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/seabird/) colonies, dramatic cliffs, & the distinctive light of the midnight sun, it’s among the best places in the world to photograph [Atlantic Puffins](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/atlantic-puffin/) in flight. I recently joined a **NaturesLens photography holiday** on the island, led by guide **Robin**, & spent six days deep in bird behaviour, strong landscapes, & endless golden light. [![A Portrait Of An Atlantic Puffin Holding Fish In Bright Beak Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-portrait-of-an-Atlantic-Puffin-holding-fish-in-bright-beak-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-portrait-of-an-Atlantic-Puffin-holding-fish-in-bright-beak-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Day 1 – Arrival & First Encounters After an overnight stay in **Akureyri,** we boarded a Twin Otter for the short 30-minute flight to Grímsey. Cruising at just 1,500 feet, we were treated to striking views of [Iceland](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/iceland/)’s northern mountains before descending towards the island. As we approached, flocks of seabirds erupted from the cliffs – a thrilling preview of what was to come. [![A Puffin Flying Back To The Burrow Over The Ocean Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-Puffin-flying-back-to-the-burrow-over-the-ocean-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-Puffin-flying-back-to-the-burrow-over-the-ocean-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) After settling into our **cosy guesthouse**, conveniently located near prime puffin spots, we wasted no time heading to the pebbled beach opposite. Puffins were already darting past, their comical faces & rapid wingbeats making them irresistible subjects. That evening, after a hearty meal, some of us wandered the island, where Arctic Terns – feisty & fearless – provided fantastic silhouette opportunities against the lingering twilight. [![An Atlantic Puffin Perched On A Cliffside Rock Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-perched-on-a-cliffside-rock-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-perched-on-a-cliffside-rock-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Pair Of Backlit Arctic Terns Flying In Golden Light Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-pair-of-backlit-Arctic-Terns-flying-in-golden-light-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-pair-of-backlit-Arctic-Terns-flying-in-golden-light-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![An Arctic Tern In Flight With Backlight Silhouette Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-in-flight-with-backlight-silhouette-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-in-flight-with-backlight-silhouette-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![An Arctic Tern Catching Fish In Mid Flight Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-catching-fish-in-mid-flight-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-catching-fish-in-mid-flight-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Day 2 – Rain, Puffins & Skimming Terns An early start brought light rain, which turned out to be a blessing. The droplets added drama to flight shots, with puffins zipping through the wet air, their wings glistening. After lunch, Robin suggested photographing **Arctic Terns skimming the water** – a challenging but rewarding exercise in tracking speed & precision. [![An Atlantic Puffin With A Mouthful Of Fish Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-with-a-mouthful-of-fish-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-with-a-mouthful-of-fish-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Portrait Of An Atlantic Puffin Holding A Beak Full Of Fish Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-portrait-of-an-Atlantic-Puffin-holding-a-beak-full-of-fish-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-portrait-of-an-Atlantic-Puffin-holding-a-beak-full-of-fish-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Portrait Of An Atlantic Puffin Holding Fish In Its Beak Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-portrait-of-an-Atlantic-Puffin-holding-fish-in-its-beak-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-portrait-of-an-Atlantic-Puffin-holding-fish-in-its-beak-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![An Arctic Tern Catching Fish Scooped Up On A Flyby Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-catching-fish-scooped-up-on-a-flyby-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-catching-fish-scooped-up-on-a-flyby-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) As evening approached, the clouds parted, casting golden beams across the sea. Robin set us a challenge: **capture a bird flying across the sun**. The resulting backlit shots, with wings glowing against the fiery disc, were impressive. [![An Atlantic Puffin Flying Through Golden Sunset Clouds Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-through-golden-sunset-clouds-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-through-golden-sunset-clouds-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![An Atlantic Puffin Flying Under Dramatic Orange Sunset Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-under-dramatic-orange-sunset-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-under-dramatic-orange-sunset-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Day 3 – Lighthouse & Cliffside Birds A leisurely walk to the lighthouse revealed **puffins perched on the grassy ledges**, their bright beaks standing out against the green. **Guillemots & Razorbills** crowded the cliffs, their sleek forms contrasting with the puffins’ round silhouettes. After dinner, we returned to the beach, where puffins fished just offshore, occasionally surfacing with beaks full of sand eels. [![An Atlantic Puffin Flying Back To The Burrow Over The Ocean Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-back-to-the-burrow-over-the-ocean-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-back-to-the-burrow-over-the-ocean-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Group Of Atlantic Puffins On Grassy Cliff Edge Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-group-of-Atlantic-Puffins-on-grassy-cliff-edge-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-group-of-Atlantic-Puffins-on-grassy-cliff-edge-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Group Of Puffins Standing On Grass Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-group-of-Puffins-standing-on-grass-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-group-of-Puffins-standing-on-grass-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Day 4 – Chicks, Razorbills & Puffins with Fish This was one of the busiest days. We revisited the lighthouse before trekking further along the cliffs, where Razorbills & Guillemots nested in tight colonies. A surprise find was a family of [Red-necked Phalarope](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-necked-phalarope/) chicks – tiny, fluffy, & endlessly entertaining as they darted between tussocks. [![A Black Tailed Godwit In A Wildflower Meadow Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-Black-tailed-godwit-in-a-wildflower-meadow-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-Black-tailed-godwit-in-a-wildflower-meadow-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) That evening, we chased silhouettes again, but nature had other plans. Fog rolled in within minutes, swallowing the island in mist – only to clear just as suddenly, bathing the cliffs in soft, diffused light. [![An Atlantic Puffin Silhouette At Golden Sunset Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-silhouette-at-golden-sunset-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-silhouette-at-golden-sunset-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Pair Of Atlantic Puffins Silhouetted Standing On Cliff Edge During Sunset Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-pair-of-Atlantic-Puffins-silhouetted-standing-on-cliff-edge-during-sunset-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-pair-of-Atlantic-Puffins-silhouetted-standing-on-cliff-edge-during-sunset-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Day 5 – Windy Cliffs & Backward-Flying Puffins Strong winds transformed the island into a high-speed photography studio. At the cliffs, puffins struggled against the gusts, hovering almost motionless before being blown backwards – like “reverse parking,” as [Robin](https://natureslens.co.uk/about/robin/) put it. The wind also made Arctic Terns work harder, their acrobatic flights even more dynamic against the clear blue sky. [![A Graceful Arctic Tern Soaring Blue Sky Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-graceful-Arctic-Tern-soaring-blue-sky-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-graceful-Arctic-Tern-soaring-blue-sky-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![An Arctic Tern Flying Against White Sky Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island 1](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-flying-against-white-sky-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island-1.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-flying-against-white-sky-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island-1.jpg) [![An Arctic Tern Hovering In The White Sky Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-hovering-in-the-white-sky-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-hovering-in-the-white-sky-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![An Arctic Tern In Mid Flight Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-in-mid-flight-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-in-mid-flight-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![Two Arctic Terns Engaged In A Mid Air Fight Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Two-Arctic-Terns-engaged-in-a-mid-air-fight-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Two-Arctic-Terns-engaged-in-a-mid-air-fight-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Pair Of Arctic Terns Fighting In Midair Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-pair-of-Arctic-Terns-fighting-in-midair-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-pair-of-Arctic-Terns-fighting-in-midair-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Day 6 – Final Shots & Farewell With a few hours before our return to **Akureyri**, some of us returned to the cliffs for last-minute [puffin](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/puffins/) portraits, while others stayed near the guesthouse, capturing final flight shots against the choppy sea. [![An Atlantic Puffin Flying Back To The Burrow Against A Dark Background Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-back-to-the-burrow-against-a-dark-background-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-flying-back-to-the-burrow-against-a-dark-background-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) [![A Trio Of Atlantic Puffins Floating On Calm Water Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-trio-of-Atlantic-Puffins-floating-on-calm-water-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-trio-of-Atlantic-Puffins-floating-on-calm-water-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Why Grímsey Island? Grímsey is unmatched for two key photographic opportunities: 1. **Puffins under the midnight sun** – The extended golden hours create perfect lighting. 1. **Puffins in flight** – The island’s geography & wind conditions allow for incredibly close, dynamic shots. [![A Photographer Capturing An Image Of An Arctic Tern In Misty Field Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-photographer-capturing-an-image-of-an-Arctic-Tern-in-misty-field-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/A-photographer-capturing-an-image-of-an-Arctic-Tern-in-misty-field-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) Beyond puffins, the island hosts thousands of [seabirds](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/seabird/), including [Arctic Terns](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/arctic-tern/), [Razorbills](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/razorbill/), Guillemots, Kittiwakes, & [Snow Buntings](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/snow-bunting/). Seals & whales are often spotted offshore, adding to the wildlife spectacle. ## Species Photographed During this trip, I captured images of: - [Atlantic Puffin](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/atlantic-puffin/) (*Fratercula arctica*) – In flight, with fish, & perched on cliffs. - [Arctic Tern](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/arctic-tern/) (*Sterna paradisaea*) – Skimming water, mid-flight, & in silhouette. - [Razorbill](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/razorbill/) (*Alca torda*) – Nesting on cliffs. - [Black Guillemot](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/black-guillemot/) (*Cepphus grylle*) – Perched near the lighthouse. - Red-necked Phalarope (*Phalaropus lobatus*) – Chicks foraging in marshland. - Kittiwake (*Rissa tridactyla*) – Gliding above the waves. - [Snow Bunting](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/snow-bunting/) (*Plectrophenax nivalis*) – Flitting between rocks. ## Final Thoughts [Grímsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/iceland/) is a dream for bird photographers. The combination of fearless wildlife, dramatic landscapes, & near-constant daylight makes it an unbeatable location. Whether you’re after [puffins](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/puffins/) in flight, terns in action, or the delicate beauty of phalarope chicks, this Arctic gem delivers – time & time again. Would I return to photograph the Birds of Grímsey Island again? **In a heartbeat!** [![An Arctic Tern On The Arctic Circle Sign Photographed By Alison Jenkins During A Natureslens Tour To Photograph The Atlantic Puffins Other Birds Of Grimsey Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-on-the-arctic-circle-sign-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Arctic-Tern-on-the-arctic-circle-sign-photographed-by-Alison-Jenkins-during-a-NaturesLens-tour-to-photograph-the-Atlantic-Puffins-other-Birds-of-Grimsey-Island.jpg) ## Share this post - - - - [![An Inquisitive Stallion Walks Up The Beach As Photographed During The Natureslens White Horses Of The Camargue Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/an-inquisitive-stallion-walks-up-the-beach-as-photographed-during-the-natureslens-white-horses-of-the-camargue-photography-holiday.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/2019/04/18/inspiring-white-horses-of-the-camargue/) ### [10 inspiring images of the White Horses of the Camargue](https://natureslens.co.uk/2019/04/18/inspiring-white-horses-of-the-camargue/) April 18, 2019 I wanted to share more images from our White Horses of the Camargue photography trip in September 2018 to give… - [![One Of Skomers Atlantic Puffins Atop A Rocky Outcrop](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/One-of-Skomers-Atlantic-Puffins-atop-a-rocky-outcrop-300x200.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/06/05/atlantic-puffins-may-2025/) ### [Atlantic Puffins, Seabirds & Golden Hour Magic in May 2025](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/06/05/atlantic-puffins-may-2025/) June 5, 2025 A report on a recent 4-day wildlife photography trip to Skomer Island, Wales - home to Atlantic Puffins, Short-eared Owls,… - [![A Wild Iberian Lynx Resting On A Rocky Surface Header Photographed By Pui Hang Miles During The Natureslens Elusive Iberian Lynx During Summer Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/A-wild-iberian-lynx-resting-on-a-rocky-surface-header-photographed-by-Pui-Hang-Miles-during-the-NaturesLens-Elusive-Iberian-Lynx-during-Summer-Photography-Holiday-300x225.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/01/photographing-the-iberian-lynx/) ### [On Tour … Photographing the Iberian Lynx](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/01/photographing-the-iberian-lynx/) July 1, 2025 Read a captivating trip report from when Pui Hang was photographing the Iberian Lynx in Spain's Sierra Morena. Witness rare… In this article 1. [Day 1 - Arrival & First Encounters](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#day-1-arrival-first-encounters) 1. [Day 2 - Rain, Puffins & Skimming Terns](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#day-2-rain-puffins-skimming-terns) 1. [Day 3 - Lighthouse & Cliffside Birds](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#day-3-lighthouse-cliffside-birds) 1. [Day 4 - Chicks, Razorbills & Puffins with Fish](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#day-4-chicks-razorbills-puffins-with-fish) 1. [Day 5 - Windy Cliffs & Backward-Flying Puffins](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#day-5-windy-cliffs-backward-flying-puffins) 1. [Day 6 - Final Shots & Farewell](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#day-6-final-shots-farewell) 1. [Why Grímsey Island?](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#why-grmsey-island) 1. [Species Photographed](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#species-photographed) 1. [Final Thoughts](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/birds-of-grimsey-island/#final-thoughts) ### Author AJ [Alison Jenkins](https://natureslens.co.uk/guides/alison/) shares practical field notes, trip updates and wildlife photography advice from the NaturesLens programme. Next step ### Find your next wildlife photography holiday Browse small-group trips by destination, subject, season and photographic goal. [Browse Holidays](https://natureslens.co.uk/wildlife-photography-holidays/) ### Related articles [![What Can You Hope To Photograph In One Week At Shompole Wilderness?](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/One-of-the-Resident-Lions-Sitting-Near-the-Waterhole-at-Night-photographed-in-one-week-at-Shompole-Wilderness-150x150.jpg) **What Can You Hope to Photograph in One Week at Shompole Wilderness?**](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/10/31/one-week-at-shompole-wilderness/) [![Four Days With The Puffins Of Skomer Island](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/An-Atlantic-Puffin-silhouetted-by-the-sunset-photographed-whilst-spending-four-days-with-the-Puffins-of-Skomer-Island-150x150.jpg) **Four Days with the Puffins of Skomer Island**](https://natureslens.co.uk/2025/07/08/four-days-with-the-puffins-of-skomer-island/) ### Field notes by email New articles, trip reports and wildlife photography holiday announcements from NaturesLens. 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