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Iceland
The myNoise Sampling Sessions' Photo Album
Every year, we have a l tradition of going on a field recording trip to capture unique natural sounds for myNoise. This year, Rémy and I have chosen the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. We explore its geothermal wonders, listen to the gentle murmur of rivers that transform into majestic waterfalls, and capture the powerful sounds of the ocean alongside the impressive glaciers. And, of course, we can't forget the ever-present wind, which finds its way into almost all our recordings. Be prepared for a lot of pictures, from this wonderful location.

All these sounds on myNoise very soon!

Iceland • Fall 2024

First encounter. Arrived in Hveragerði before sunset, a town surrounded by geothermal activity. Already recording!
The following day, we went hiking in the area. In the distance, the signs of geothermal activity.
Panoramic view taken from the Reykjavegur Trail.
Human with a microphone, for scale.
We were often remembered the temperature of boiling water here...
...and the smell of H2S (often compared to that of rotten eggs).
Recording the sounds of bubbles and gurgles in an otherworldly landscape.
Father and son, off-the-record. We had to try this!
We began the process of recording the journey of water as it flows from the land to the sea.
Panoramic view taken from the Ásólfsskáli Trail.
I felt great again in the fresh air (and the rain). I took this picture to send as a postcard to the physiotherapy team that helped me recover from CIDP nearly two years ago.
The tumultuous life of water in Iceland. Human with microphone, for scale.
We chased the big ones too! Meet Gullfoss.
Capturing the sounds of Urriðafoss, Iceland's largest waterfall. I used highly directional microphones (NTG3) - this is important in popular tourist areas, where visitors often gather nearby and chat :(
As the journey progresses, the sound of water gradually softens, eventually fading into the vast ocean!
The ocean near the black sand beach of Reynisfjara is known for its powerful waves and dangerous undercurrents.
It's a color photograph!
Why bother with a raincoat when you have an Australian hat?
My setup, part 2. Inside the blimp, a mid-side microphone configuration featuring an MKH8030 and an AT4022. Zoom F6 audio recorder clipped on my belt.
Our goal next, approaching the giant glacier of Jökulsárlón. The weather was really bad great for wind and rain sounds.
Father and Son, part 2. This serves as a contrast to the previous idyllic conditions. Despite the freezing cold and the rain soaking us, we continued to record sounds and maintained a good mood.
The Jökulsárlón Lagoon
The wether is clearing. Recording the quiet lapping waves of the lagoon without the rain.
The Jökulsárlón Lagoon didn't bring the glacier sounds I was hoping for. So, we continued to explore the area for other lagoons.
Then we found this amazing spot. Underwater sounds revealed a world of noises almost like a forest and birds singing, but they were actually ice melting and expanding.
For this session, I have packed my backpack with a variety of recording equipment. Inside, you'll find an F6 recorder, a pair of H2a hydrophones, and three different microphones: the AT4025, AT4022, and MKH8030. I also have a boompole and a furry windshield to help with sound quality. And, of course, I’ve included plenty of cookies—Rémy tends to get grumpy when he’s hungry!
A last hike through the inner lands awaits, featuring the stunning Hangandifoss trail.
Panoramic view from the Hangandifoss trail.
We can never get enough of waterfalls. What made this one special, was the distance and surrounding acoustics!
On our last day, we had the pleasure of meeting Hákon, a myNoise fan from Iceland. It’s always a joy to connect with our users in person. Who knows, maybe you will be the next one we meet!
I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to my son, Rémy, for being part of this adventure. While we work hard, we also find joy along the way! Rémy manages the myNoise mobile apps and accompanies me on field recording trips, looking for my safety in my sometimes challenging recording situations!

Thank you!

Sampling sessions abroad are only possible because of the generosity of the people making donations to this website. May those contributors be assured of my deepest gratitude! If you would like to foster the recording of new sounds, please support or keep supporting my work. Stéphane