Capturing a Whisper Between Human and Horse – Award-Winning Wedding Photography in Ireland

There’s a reason people fall in love with weddings in Ireland. The wild countryside, the rolling green hills, the stone walls that have stood for centuries — and sometimes, the unexpected visitors that bring a little extra magic to the day.

For John and Sally’s wedding, that unexpected guest was a horse. What happened in those few quiet minutes of portraits went on to win two Wedisson Awards in August 2024, but more importantly, it became one of those stories you never forget.

The Magic of Irish Wedding Portraits

Every wedding day has its whirlwind — the morning prep, the ceremony, the hugs and handshakes after, and the buzz of the reception building. That’s why I always carve out time with my couples for a few portraits in between. It’s a breather, a chance to step away and just be with each other.

For John and Sally, that escape led us into the Irish countryside. We found ourselves walking along an old stone wall, soft light falling through the trees, with the calm you only get in rural Munster.

And then it happened.

A Whisper Between Human and Horse

Out of nowhere, a horse poked its head over the wall. No fuss, no noise — just a gentle presence. Sally reached out instinctively, running her hand down its nose. As I lifted my camera, the horse closed its eyes. The air felt still, almost sacred, like a whisper between human and animal.

It wasn’t staged, it wasn’t planned, and that’s why it was perfect. These are the kinds of moments you don’t script. They unfold naturally, and when they do, it’s a privilege to capture them.

The Irish landscape framed it all: soft greens, old stone, the calm of countryside silence. In that instant, the photo wasn’t just about a bride and groom. It was about connection — with each other, with nature, with the moment.

A Horse’s Blessing

Not long after, John leaned in and kissed Sally. The horse stayed, watching from the background as though it had given its blessing. To me, it felt like nature itself was a guest at the wedding, quietly approving.

Those images became two of my proudest captures. Not just because of how they looked, but because of what they represented: love, calm, and a touch of Irish magic.

The Wedisson Award Recognition

When I entered these photos into the Wedisson Awards, I had no expectation. Photographers from all over the world submit thousands of images each month. The standard is incredibly high, and to even place is something special.

Winning two awards in August 2024 felt surreal. It wasn’t just recognition of a technically strong photo — it was proof that honest, unscripted moments resonate with people everywhere.

For those who don’t know, Wedisson is an international wedding photography competition that celebrates the world’s best wedding photographers. To have my work stand out on that stage is humbling, and I’m proud that it came from a moment as simple and real as this.

Why These Moments Matter

Awards are nice, of course. But for me, it always comes back to the couple and the story of their day. It’s the unscripted laughter, the quiet hand squeezes, the stolen glances — and yes, even a curious horse showing up in the middle of portraits.

That’s what I aim to capture: the soul of the day. Photos that, when you look back years from now, make you feel the moment all over again.

As an Irish wedding photographer, I’ve learned that it’s not about chasing perfection. It’s about being present, ready for the unexpected, and creating images that feel alive.

Planning Your Own Wedding in Ireland

If you’re planning a wedding in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Clare, or Wexford, know that the landscape itself becomes part of your story. From Gougane Barra’s lakeside chapel to the gardens of Vienna Woods Hotel or the riverside calm at Ferrycarrig, every venue has its own magic.

And sometimes, just sometimes, nature will step in with a surprise you’ll never forget.

Thank You

To John and Sally — thank you for trusting me with your day and for embracing that unexpected guest with such warmth. And to Wedisson, thank you for recognising the value of those quiet, fleeting moments.

📸 If you’d like your own story told with the same natural, relaxed approach, get in touch here. I’d love to hear your plans.