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In a world where everything seems curated, filtered, and staged for perfection, some moments cut through the noise and remind us what real love looks like. A man, standing in the howling wind and relentless rain, steady and sure, gets down on one knee in one of Ireland’s most breathtaking landmarks. No fanfare, no sunshine—just raw emotion, the Atlantic crashing in the distance, and a promise made for a lifetime.
This is Riley and Nicola’s proposal story—a moment of pure magic at Charles Fort in Kinsale, one of Ireland’s most historic and stunning coastal locations.
I absolutely love capturing secret proposals. They are a mix of nerves, excitement, and raw emotion—some of the most powerful moments in photography. When Riley reached out, I was instantly on board.
“Where and when?” I asked.
“Charles Fort, Kinsale. Next Saturday,” he said.
The week leading up to it was idyllic—clear blue skies, crisp spring air. But as fate would have it, the day itself took a dramatic turn. The heavens opened, the wind howled through the fort, and the Atlantic roared against the cliffs. I was in another county photographing a confirmation that morning, thinking, “I wouldn’t blame him if he called it off.”
But Riley? He wasn’t backing out.
I raced down to Kinsale, arriving at Charles Fort just in time. With the rain lashing down, I secured a hidden camera on the bridge and took my position 150 meters away. Balancing a 100-500mm lens in one hand and gripping my umbrella in the other (which, let’s be honest, nearly took flight over the fort), I spotted the familiar white Audi pulling into the car park.
As Riley led Nicola toward the stone walls of Charles Fort, I could feel the moment building. He reached into his pocket, turned to her, and—right then—a couple unknowingly strolled past them! A quick shift to the left, a small angle adjustment, and I was locked back in, ready to capture the magic.
Despite the rain, despite the wind, despite everything—Nicola said YES. ❤️
As a wedding and engagement photographer in Kinsale, moments like these fuel my passion. Coming from a background in landscape photography, I’ve camped out for sunrises, hiked through remote valleys, and waited in wild weather for the perfect shot. That experience means I know the best locations—hidden gems, quiet spots away from crowds, and places like Charles Fort that hold deep history and meaning.
For Riley and Nicola, this wasn’t just a proposal. It was a testament to their love, proving that real moments don’t need perfect conditions. They just need the right person by your side.
If you’re thinking about a romantic proposal in Ireland, Charles Fort in Kinsale is unmatched. Here’s why:
✅ Breathtaking Views – Overlooking the Atlantic, this 17th-century fort offers cinematic backdrops perfect for engagement photos. ✅ Secluded Romance – Unlike city proposals, Charles Fort gives you space, intimacy, and a historical charm. ✅ Iconic Irish History – Steeped in history, the fort is one of Ireland’s most significant landmarks, adding depth and storytelling to your moment. ✅ Close to Kinsale’s Best Spots – After saying ‘yes,’ you can celebrate in one of Kinsale’s famous seafood restaurants or cozy pubs.
If you’re considering a proposal photographer in Kinsale, reach out—I’d love to help plan and capture your unforgettable moment.
Built in the late 1600s, Charles Fort is a star-shaped military fortress overlooking the entrance to Kinsale Harbour. It played a crucial role in Irish history, from the Williamite War to the Irish War of Independence. Today, it stands as one of Ireland’s best-preserved coastal forts, attracting history lovers and photographers alike.
Whether you visit for history, scenery, or a once-in-a-lifetime proposal, Charles Fort never disappoints.
From Cork to Kerry, Kinsale to the Cliffs of Moher, I specialize in capturing authentic, emotion-filled moments—whether that’s an epic proposal, an intimate elopement, or your dream wedding day.
Looking for a Kinsale wedding photographer? Planning a secret proposal in Ireland? Let’s create something unforgettable.
📍 JOD Photography – Kinsale Proposal Photographer | Cork Wedding Photographer
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