There’s something magical about an Irish wedding. Not the Pinterest-perfect version — I’m talking about the real stuff. The warm welcomes. The half-finished cups of tea. The buzz of a family home on the morning of a wedding. That’s exactly what met me on the 6th of June, 2025, at Emma’s family home in Cork.
From the moment the door opened, I was greeted with a smile and, naturally, “Will you have a cup of tea, James? You must be starving.” That’s the Irish way — no fuss, no frills, just pure soundness. Emma’s dad opened the door, clocked my bald head and said, “Ah, there he is, my long-lost twin,” laughing as he rubbed his own shiny head. That’s the tone set for the whole day: light-hearted, warm, full of real Irish craic.
Her young nieces were darting around, full of energy and charm. One of them, absolutely mad and beaming in every shot, kept jumping into frame — and honestly, I couldn’t get enough of her. Her smile is in half the gallery for good reason.
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Your Cork & Kerry Wedding Story
Many couples choose to celebrate across two counties — with a beautiful church ceremony in Cork and a lively reception in Kerry. It’s the best of both worlds: Cork’s historic charm meets Kerry’s epic scenery. I’ve photographed dozens of weddings that cross this Cork–Kerry border, and it always creates something unique.
Couples often say the same thing about their day:
“James fit in so well with the Kerry crowd he may as well put Kerry based photographer on his profile!”
“He was outstanding with my children… the photos turned out beyond what we could have imagined.”
“We’re over the moon with the photos — they capture us, not just the day.”
“A master of his craft, one of the best photographers in the country.”
“From the moment he entered the room, we were laughing — he changed my mood from bridezilla to relaxed.”
That’s the kind of feedback that keeps me going.
Why Choose JOD Photography
I don’t just move between Cork and Kerry on your wedding day — I help you enjoy it. I know the roads, the light, the angles, and I make sure you’re not worrying about logistics. You just enjoy the crowd, the craic, and the moment.
When couples ask about pricing, I keep it simple: fair, transparent, and no hidden extras. My packages start at €850 for smaller weddings and go up to €2550 for full-day coverage with albums included. You’ll always know exactly what you’re getting — no surprises, just honest value for work that lasts a lifetime.
If you’re planning a day split between the two counties, check out:
And if you’d like to see more of my work and what I offer:
Finally
To have someone capture the emotional rollercoaster of a wedding that moves from Cork’s quiet chapels to Kerry’s wild mountains is a privilege. My couples often tell me it’s like reliving the day when they open their album — the laughter, the nerves, the mad Irish weather, and the moments that only happen once.
If you’re crossing the Cork–Kerry line for your wedding, let’s make it a story worth keeping.
Getting Ready – Family First, Laughter Always
Hair and makeup were handled by friends of the family, which meant the house felt less like a bridal prep space and more like a reunion of soulmates who’ve known each other a lifetime.
Hair: The brilliant team at @bibahair created relaxed, natural looks with a touch of elegance.
Makeup: @blissbeautycork kept everyone glowing and calm, working her magic with a smile.
When Emma walked down the stairs in her gown from @amore_bridalwear_youghal, jaws dropped. She looked radiant — confident, graceful, and glowing with happiness.
The Ceremony – Intimate Vows in Rochestown Park Hotel
Over at the @rochestown_park_hotel, David and his crew were outside soaking up the Cork sunshine (yes, we got sun!) and enjoying a few sociables before the ceremony. David looked sharp — chilled, maybe slightly helped along by a drop of whiskey — but ready.
The ceremony took place in a beautifully styled room at the hotel, with around 20-25 close family and friends. There was laughter, heckling (“It’s about time, ye two!”), and heartfelt vows. It was intimate, emotional, and full of love.
Let the Party Begin – A Cork City Celebration
Now, here’s the bit that was pure Cork magic: the moment the ceremony ended, the floodgates opened. Friends and extended family poured into the hotel — what had started as a quiet gathering turned into a 200-person party.
In the large reception hall, guests surrounded tables, cheering the couple into the room. The speeches were hilarious, especially from David’s best friend, whose stories earned a round of applause you could probably hear across the Lee.
Everywhere I turned, it was generations of friends and family who’ve shared real life together — ups, downs, and everything in between. And tonight, they were all here to lift Emma and David up and celebrate their love.
The Details – All Love, All Local
Florist: The beautiful blooms were by @florist4u_tracey — soft, seasonal, and perfectly styled.
Cake: @bakerboycakes delivered a showstopper — both stunning and delicious.
DJ: @bertiemeehan had the whole room bouncing. Bertie doesn’t just play songs — he reads the room and delivers pure energy. The floor never emptied.
Thank You
To Emma & David — thank you for letting me into your world for a day. It was real, beautiful, and full of heart.
To your family and friends — the kindness and craic was unreal.
To the team at Rochestown Park Hotel — always on point.
To the amazing suppliers:
This was Cork at its best.
– JOD’Photography