Reykjavík street photography - fire hydrants

When one thinks of Reykjavík, Iceland, images of stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights often come to mind. However, there's a charming and perhaps overlooked aspect of Reykjavík's streets that adds a fascinating character to its urban landscape - the fire hydrants.

Nestled amidst the city's vibrant streets, these fire hydrants stand as unassuming yet visually captivating subjects. I find that each hydrant tells a story of utility and creativity that is quintessentially Icelandic.

Photographing Reykjavík's fire hydrants offers a unique opportunity to explore the city's neighbourhoods. When embracing street photography I tend to wander through the streets not knowing where I’ll end up, The hunt for the perfect fire hydrant photo becomes a journey of discovery, leading to unexpected encounters and new perspectives on this captivating city.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, photographing these fire hydrants around Reykjavík serves as a reminder of the vital role these objects play in urban infrastructure. While often overlooked in day-to-day life, these humble fixtures are essential for safety, ensuring that the city remains resilient in the face of potential emergencies. By turning my lens toward these unsung heroes of the urban landscape, I’m paying tribute to the unseen forces that help keep Reykjavík safe and secure.

Next time you’re out enjoying some street photography, maybe look for repeating artefacts, shapes, colour or people, you never know what surprises await.