TIFA 2022 Nature / Landscapes

Electrocardiogram

  • Prize
    Bronze in Nature/Landscapes
  • Photographer
    Heather Tonge
  • Technical Info
    Sony A7riii, Sony Fe70-300mm F4.5-5.6 G Oss 1.6 Sec, F10, 70mm, Iso 200. Focus-stacked.
  • Photo Date
    18 Jun 2021

This image is from Fagradalsfjall, an active volcano in Iceland which began on 19 March 2021 in Geldingaladir. Although the volcano was not ‘erupting’ at the time, it was highly active and had created extensive lava fields. The Nátthagi valley was very accessible, and the lava tubes and channels were working well to distribute the molten liquid from the crater to the very edges of the expanding lava field, like a ring of fire. The emerging oozing then cooling lava produced incredible transient illuminated scenes with diverse shapes and patterns, and openings revealing the molten liquid within.

Photography has always been a passion from a young age, where it was a great way of saving memories, and a camera was taken everywhere. I find the whole photography process very therapeutic; it involves travel and exercise which helps with mindfulness and well-being. It takes me to some places at first light when the landscapes can be at their best. I feel I have developed an evolving photographic style by exploring more intimate and minimal landscapes, and endeavour to share my vision of some of the earth’s natural untamed beauty.