Clare wedding photographer

Heather and Matt embracing the rain at a mountain overlook in the Gap of Dunloe - JOD'Photography

Clare Wedding Photographer | Best Venues, Elopements & Intimate Weddings

Planning a wedding in Clare? You’re in the right place. I’m James O’Driscoll, owner of the award-winning JOD Photography, and I’ve had the privilege of capturing weddings across Cork, Kerry, Limerick, and here in County Clare.

This page is more than just a showcase of photographs — it’s a complete guide for anyone searching for a Clare wedding photographer. From grand castles to hidden coastal gems, Clare has some of the most breathtaking wedding locations in Ireland. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement by the Cliffs of Moher, a traditional ceremony in a historic castle, or a relaxed day with just your closest family and friends, Clare is a county that delivers.

Wild Atlantic Kerry wedding day storytelling — JOD Photography

Why Choose Clare for Your Wedding

Clare is often called the jewel of the Wild Atlantic Way. It has that rugged Irish beauty — cliffs, castles, colourful villages, and music-filled pubs where the celebrations can carry on long after the wedding day.

Here’s why couples love getting married in Clare:

  • The Coastline: The Cliffs of Moher, Loop Head, Lahinch, Spanish Point — natural drama at its finest.

  • The Castles: From Knappogue Castle to Dromoland Castle, Clare has some of the most romantic venues in Ireland.

  • The Music & Culture: A county alive with traditional Irish music and warm welcomes.

  • The Choice of Venues: Luxury hotels, boutique venues, coastal hideaways, and everything in between.

As a Clare wedding photographer, I’ve seen couples from Ireland, the US, the UK, and further afield fall in love with this county.

Best Wedding Venues in Clare

Here’s a guide to some of the most stunning wedding venues Clare has to offer.

1. Dromoland Castle

If you want luxury and fairytale vibes, Dromoland Castle is unbeatable. Its history, stunning grounds, and five-star service make it one of Ireland’s most prestigious venues.

2. Knappogue Castle

A medieval castle wedding with candlelight, stone walls, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Knappogue is perfect for couples who want something dramatic and historic.

3. The Cliffs of Moher (for ceremonies & elopements)

Few places in the world are as iconic. An elopement at the Cliffs of Moher is powerful, wild, and deeply romantic.

4. Armada Hotel, Spanish Point

Overlooking the Atlantic, the Armada offers that classic Irish coastal wedding with sea views and incredible sunsets.

5. Hotel Doolin

One of the most fun, lively venues in Clare. Hotel Doolin is known for its relaxed atmosphere, great food, and focus on sustainability.

6. Falls Hotel & Spa, Ennistymon

Set on the River Inagh, it’s a gorgeous mix of elegance and nature.

Alison smiling in the wind at Old Head of Kinsale – JOD Photography
Unposed Cork wedding moments captured — JOD Photography
Stylish wedding photography in Limerick — JOD Photography

Small Weddings in Clare

Big weddings aren’t for everyone. Many of my couples are planning small weddings in Clare or intimate elopements. And honestly, Clare is one of the best counties in Ireland for it.

  • The coastal landscapes give you dramatic backdrops without needing huge décor.

  • The boutique hotels and guesthouses create cosy, family-friendly atmospheres.

  • The castles and ruins offer intimate ceremony spots where history surrounds you.

An intimate wedding gives you time to breathe, enjoy your guests, and get natural photographs that feel relaxed and true to the day.

Elopements in Clare

If you’re thinking about eloping in Ireland, Clare is hard to beat.

  • The Cliffs of Moher are world-famous, but there are plenty of quieter spots if you want privacy.

  • The Burren National Park with its limestone landscapes feels otherworldly.

  • Coastal villages like Doolin, Lahinch, and Kilkee make for great bases with music and character.

As a Clare wedding photographer, elopements are some of my favourite celebrations to capture. They strip away the stress and keep the focus on the couple.

Wedding ceremony in Adare Manor ballroom — JOD Photography

Real Clare Weddings Captured by JOD Photography

I’ve had the honour of photographing weddings all over Clare. Each one is different, but all of them share the same magic — laughter, family, and those quiet moments that often go unseen.

Some highlights:

  • A windswept elopement at the Cliffs of Moher.

  • A cosy autumn wedding at Hotel Doolin.

  • A candlelit castle celebration at Knappogue.

Every couple brings their own energy, and it’s my job to capture it naturally.

Couple walking hand in hand at Bantry House — JOD Photography
Romantic candid of Orla and Paul holding hands by the water in Clonakilty – JOD’Photography

Why Choose JOD Photography in Clare

Photography is personal. You’re not just hiring someone with a camera, you’re choosing someone to be with you through one of the most important days of your life.

Couples book me because:

  • I blend in like a guest — no awkward posing, just natural laughter and emotion.

  • I capture the big moments and the quiet ones you didn’t even notice at the time.

  • I deliver fast, with albums and galleries that last a lifetime.

And don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what past couples have said:

“James done our wedding in July. From the minute he arrived that morning James made us all feel at ease, made us laugh, and had the craic. We couldn’t be happier with the photos.” — Elizabeth & Paul

“Omg where to start about James. Genuinely the funniest, most down-to-earth fella you’d meet, not to mind his eye for detail with his photography. Hard to beat him at what he does.” — Noreen

These are just a couple of the 120+ five-star reviews I’ve received.

Bride and groom embrace after ceremony in Gougane Barra – JOD Photography
Clare wedding photographer James O’Driscoll of JOD Photography capturing natural candid moments at a coastal wedding in County Clare

If you’re planning a wedding in Clare, I’ve put together even more resources to help you:

And if you’re comparing across counties:

To learn more about packages, check out my money pages:

This way you can explore everything Clare (and beyond) while seeing how your wedding might look through my lens.

Clare Wedding Photography FAQ

Q1: What are the best wedding venues in Clare?
Dromoland Castle, Knappogue Castle, Hotel Doolin, Armada Hotel, and the Cliffs of Moher are all incredible options.

Q2: How much does a Clare wedding photographer cost?
My packages range from €700 to €2550 depending on coverage. Full details are here → Packages.

Q3: Do you photograph elopements in Clare?
Yes — I love capturing elopements at the Cliffs of Moher, Burren National Park, and coastal hideaways.

Q4: Do you travel across Ireland for weddings?
Absolutely. While I’m based in Cork, I cover Clare, Kerry, Limerick, Tipp, and beyond.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a Clare wedding photographer, you’ve found someone who knows the county, the venues, and how to tell your story naturally.

Whether it’s a windswept elopement by the cliffs, a candlelit castle wedding, or a relaxed day with family, I’d love to capture it for you.

👉 Let’s chat about your Clare wedding today → Contact

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