Capturing the Essence of County Clare & Galway

Ireland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating stories waiting to be told through the lens of a camera. As a travel photographer, my journey through County Clare and Galway allowed me to immerse myself in the natural beauty and vibrant local life of this picturesque region, capturing its essence in stunning visuals.

DOONAGORE CASTLE - A 16th-century Irish tower house located near Doolin, County Clare, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It's a prominent landmark, often photographed for its picturesque setting and historical significance.

A STATUE OF SAINT BRIGID greets visitors for QUIN FRIARY and the graveyard. This holy site is the final resting place for many legendary historical figures in Ireland.

DETAILS OF THE QUIN FRANCISCAN FRIARY - With a fraught and complex history, there have been many iterations of the abbey since the 1200s. The original church on-site was burned in 1278.

CORCOMROE ABBEY - An early 13th-century Cistercian monastery located in the north of the Burren region of County Clare, Ireland, a few miles east of the village of Ballyvaughan.

A highlight of my adventure was hiking the iconic Cliffs of Moher, where the dramatic cliffs rise majestically above the Atlantic Ocean. The sheer scale of the cliffs and the breathtaking vistas offered endless opportunities for capturing striking images. I worked alongside journalist and fellow photographer Katrina Morrison, who shared her insights and perspectives on the region, enhancing our collective storytelling through images.

MAGIC HOUR ON THE BURREN - The vast, moon-like Burren in County Clare is one of Ireland's most compelling landscapes. Here, cool grey rock etched with crevices and cracks tumbles down to the wild blue Atlantic Ocean.

THE CLIFFS OF MOHER - tower over the rugged West Clare coast. Walk the safe, paved pathways and view the famous Cliffs on Europe's western frontier.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to cover the Volvo Ocean Race around Ireland, photographing the excitement of the event and its impact on local communities. This experience further illustrated the blend of adventure and tradition that defines the region.

…AND THEY’RE OFF - The race continues. Volvo Ocean Race, after a two week layover in Galway, continues to Capetown, South Africa.

SHANNON DELTA FARMLAND - a cow pasture from the road to Dromoland Castle

LAHINCH - Situated on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean eight miles north of Spanish Point and three miles west of the market town of Ennistymon lies this busy seaside town.

Throughout my time in County Clare and Galway, I made it a priority to get to know local residents and business owners, which added depth to my photographs. Their stories and warm hospitality provided context that enhanced my visual narratives and showcased the community's spirit.

A SATURDAY NIGHT TRADITION - Musicians come down to the local pub on Saturday nights for an informal gathering to play. Anyone is welcome to bring an instrument and participate. Musical selections include traditional Irish folk music, and popular hits from all the generations represented in the group that assembles in the pub.

In this body of work, I aimed to photograph points of interest that American tourists might encounter when visiting the lesser-traveled portions of Ireland. By focusing on both well-known landmarks and hidden gems, I sought to create a comprehensive portrayal of this enchanting country, inviting viewers to explore its beauty and connect with its people.

SUNDAY IS FOR THE TOWN - It is a common practice that after mass, the whole community will gather at the pub for food, drink, music and the opportunity to connect with friends and family.

Overall, my experiences in County Clare and Galway were not just about taking pictures; they were about immersing myself in the stories of the land and its people. Through thoughtful composition and an appreciation for cultural nuances, I aimed to convey the essence of this enchanting region in my work.