READING TIME: 3 min 33 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/21/2025
UPDATED: 05/21/2025
For Bettina Vass, photography was never just about pressing a shutter—it was about awakening something deeper. “My early experiences in a small, rather uninspiring studio in Budapest weren’t exactly what I dreamed of, but they were a start.” It wasn’t until she moved to Iceland 13 years ago that everything changed.
Reigniting her creative spark in 2017, Bettina began with casual portrait sessions of friends. “Just when I was about to switch careers and dive into programming,” she recalls, “I began receiving inquiries for my photography.” What began as a side passion quickly snowballed into a career. By 2019, she left university behind to pursue photography full-time.
Today, her name is synonymous with breathtaking elopement imagery and atmospheric storytelling—an artist known for her ability to harmonize love, nature, and emotion in a single frame.
Elopement photography, especially in Iceland, demands more than a good eye—it demands soul. Bettina’s work is proof. “In my work, the technical aspects of photography take a back seat to capturing the essence and emotions of my clients.”
Rather than chasing fleeting trends, Bettina focuses on what lasts: connection, authenticity, and timeless beauty. “My style is about highlighting the unique relationships and personalities of my clients, set against the stunning backdrop of the raw Icelandic landscape.” The moody skies and unpredictable weather only add to her visual narrative, imbuing her images with an emotional charge few can replicate.
Bettina’s go-to gear includes two Canon R6 cameras and a handpicked selection of lenses—ranging from the wide 16mm to the versatile 70-200mm. But her real secret weapon? Her eye for detail in post-production.
“I try to keep the colors close to real life. It’s very important for me that the photos capture the mood of the moment and the weather.” Her editing process is intentional yet minimal—removing distractions, refining compositions, and emphasizing symmetry—ensuring the story stays pure and uncluttered.
Ask Bettina what she loves most about her work, and the answer is instant: freedom. “Traditional 9-to-5 jobs have never suited me—I thrive on the flexibility to set my own schedule and rules.”
But the freedom comes with more than logistics. It’s emotional. Personal. “There’s immense joy in using my skills to help clients realize their visions and immortalize their most cherished moments.” Many of her client relationships blossom into real friendships—lasting connections sparked by shared adventures on mountaintops, glaciers, and windswept cliffs.
For Bettina, the magic starts with a conversation. “At the heart of my approach is a simple, yet powerful act: I listen.” Before a single photo is taken, she makes time for a video call to understand each couple’s love story, vision, and quirks. “It’s important that clients feel a connection with me, as we often spend a significant part of their wedding day together.”
This empathy shapes every step of the process. “My goal is never to redirect their wishes but to embrace them fully. I strive to create a comfortable and joyful experience, free from any awkwardness.”
Every couple is different—and Bettina’s packages reflect that. “Absolutely! My packages are thoughtfully designed to meet a variety of needs, ensuring that every couple can find the perfect fit.”
Her offerings start at five hours, ideal for documenting not just the ceremony but the journey around it—those raw, unfiltered moments of laughter, movement, and wonder as couples explore Iceland’s jaw-dropping scenery.
When asked what advice she’d give her younger self, Bettina doesn’t hesitate: “Don’t listen to those who are jealous and try to undermine your potential because they are intimidated by your capabilities.”
She emphasizes the importance of persistence and self-trust. “Avoid comparing yourself to photographers who have been in the industry for over a decade. Instead, focus on carving your own path.” And perhaps most importantly, “Oh, and stop people pleasing. (I would also give myself a hug.)”
When it comes to preparing for a shoot, Bettina encourages couples to embrace the journey fully—weather and all. “Wear outfits that move with the wind and add a splash of color against the dramatic backdrops.” Layers and boots are a must. Props that tell your story? Even better.
But her most important tip? “Dive into the experience with an open heart—ready to laugh, explore, and maybe even get a little messy.”
Though Iceland remains her first love—where she’s honed her signature style—Bettina is no stranger to the thrill of new destinations. “Whether it’s the dramatic cliffs of the Faroe Islands or another breathtaking spot in Europe, I’m all about helping couples celebrate their love in some of the most beautiful places on earth.”
In a world where weddings can often feel performative or overproduced, Bettina Vass reminds us that the most powerful moments are often the most unplanned—the spontaneous laugh, the silent glance, the wind catching a veil just right.
Her journey—from uninspired studio beginnings in Budapest to award-winning elopement artistry in Reykjavik—is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the quiet magic of following your heart.
