SNAPSHOT: A Man Named Hawk

This is Hawk, Haukur Snorrason – He’s an extraordinay photographer and guide in Iceland.  Hawk has two enormously popular and beautiful coffee table books to his name, filled with exquisite images of Iceland.  He also maintains a website for Icelandic Stock Photography.

Haukur Snorrason in US Navy Plane – Iceland

Hawk led us to this incredible US Navy plane in all its dilapidated glory.  I thought it was the perfect spot to photograph him – did I mention he’s a pilot?  He is – and while we’re digressing – he’s also descended from a Norwegian King ( or 2 ).

I like a sense of place in Character Portraits and this spot was perfect.  Gritty, moody skies, and a subject that fit perfectly.

I had been looking for a good place to photograph Hawk, and when we came upon this plane, I suddenly realized that I had indeed carried all my equipment to Iceland for a reason.

Ruined fuselage of WWII US Navy Plane on black sand beach in Iceland.

BTW, we spent one night in a cabin where everyone bunked in the same room.  Here I discovered after hours of trying to wake Haukur up — trying in vain to roll him on his side – jostle him, lift him up and drop him, etc…. that he comes by the name, “SNORrason” honestly!  Next time I’ll bring NASA earplugs!

Oh heck, as long as I’m telling stories, here’s another.  Hawk bet me a beer he could throw a rock off of this cliff and out into a glacial lake farther than I could.  After many contests, I reluctantly realized that I was buying the beer.  Now about 4 weeks after our return, I can finally use my arm again.  —  I’m training Hawk.  You’re buying beers next year!