Orla and Paul are a couple whose love story began with a serendipitous encounter. They first saw me while I was capturing another wedding at Fernhill House in West Cork. Intrigued by how I interacted with guests and the ease with which I captured candid moments, Orla reached out via email just a few days later. Little did I know that this initial connection would spark a nearly two-year friendship, all starting from that one email.
When I first visited Orla and Paul’s home, they welcomed me with tea and cake. As we chatted, they mentioned they had seen my name on the back of my jumper during that wedding at Fernhill House and loved the way I made people laugh and feel at ease. That’s what led them to reach out and ultimately book me as their wedding photographer. It’s always special when a couple chooses you based not just on your work, but on the connection they felt when they saw you in action.
Like with all my couples, I offered Orla and Paul an open line of communication. I told Orla that my WhatsApp is always available, and she took full advantage of it. Every few weeks, she’d message me, and we’d have a good laugh—building a rapport that made their wedding day feel like I was photographing close friends.
The wedding day arrived, and the ceremony took place at the stunning St. John the Baptist Church in Kinsale. This church is a photographer’s dream, with its abundance of natural light streaming through the tall windows. As Orla made her nervous yet beautiful walk down the aisle, her eyes locked with Paul’s. The moment they connected, both of them were beaming, smiles stretching from ear to ear. It was a ceremony filled with joy, laughter, and tender moments—a perfect reflection of their relationship.
After the ceremony, we headed to a nearby beach where Orla and Paul’s beloved horse, Damut, was waiting. This magnificent horse, with his gleaming coat, became the centerpiece of some truly magical photos. The sun was shining brightly, capturing Damut’s beauty and making him look like a champion ready for the spotlight. Standing tall on the beach, he was more than just a horse; he was part of the family, and he knew it. The effort Orla and Paul had put into preparing Damut for this day was evident, and he didn’t disappoint.
Our next stop was the Celtic Ross Hotel, a magical venue nestled in the heart of West Cork. The hotel’s charm and proximity to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery made it the perfect spot for Orla and Paul to celebrate with their loved ones. The newlyweds danced their first dance to “Perfect for Me” by Bradley Marshall—a fitting choice for a couple whose day was nothing short of perfect.
From the stunning light of St. John the Baptist Church to the unexpected beauty of Damut on the beach, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the Celtic Ross Hotel, Orla and Paul’s wedding was a celebration of love, laughter, and the unique charm of West Cork. It’s days like these that remind me why I love being a wedding photographer, especially in such a beautiful part of Ireland.
If you’re planning a wedding in Ireland, whether in Cork, Killarney, Galway, or Limerick, and you’re searching for a photographer who captures both the big moments and the small details with a mix of editorial and documentary photography styles, I’d love to be part of your special day. Whether you’re curious about wedding photography prices and packages, or you’re wondering what to say to a wedding photographer during your consultation, I’m here to help make your wedding day memories timeless.
Why Book JOD Photography for Your Cork Wedding?
A wedding day moves fast, but my job is to slow it down in photos. I keep it natural, relaxed, documentary-style. You get the big shots, yes, but also the quiet looks, the belly laughs, the moments you didn’t even know happened.
Here’s what couples have said:
“We absolutely loved having James as our photographer for our small family wedding. He was friendly, easy-going, and great fun. He had a great eye for special moments, making it so enjoyable for us all. He is beyond talented.” – Clare O’Mahoney
“James arrived full of energy and instantly changed the mood in the house. Within minutes we were chatting like we knew him years. He kept everyone calm, laughing and smiling, and everything ran smoothly. From photographer to a friend in a few hours!” – Aisling Healy
Fair pricing, no hidden extras, and photos delivered fast — often within 24 hours.
👉 Wedding Photography Packages
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👉 Ireland Elopement Photography
From candid moments to cinematic photography, I specialize in creating a wedding album that reflects the full spectrum of your special day. Whether it’s capturing the subtle glances shared during a quiet moment or the joy and laughter of your guests, I’ll be there to document every detail with a creative eye. And if you want to include your beloved pets or horses, like Damut, in your wedding photos, I’m more than happy to make them part of your story.
My approach ensures that each shot is taken with care, creativity, and a deep understanding of what makes your love story unique. Whether we’re shooting against the backdrop of the rugged Beara Peninsula, the serene waters of the Wild Atlantic Way, or the lush greenery of Bantry House, I’ll tailor my style to reflect the personality of your relationship. I’m also well-versed in capturing the grandeur of more formal settings, such as weddings at the luxurious Fota Island Resort or the romantic Ballyseede Castle.
No matter if you’re planning an intimate elopement in the scenic valleys of Glengarriff or a grand celebration in the heart of Cork City, my goal is to create images that are not only beautiful but also deeply personal. Let me help turn your wedding day into a visual narrative that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Planning your own wedding at the Celtic Ross Hotel in Clonakilty or somewhere else in beautiful West Cork? This part of Ireland is full of stunning coastal scenery, incredible food, and warm welcomes — it’s the perfect place to celebrate with family and friends. I’ve photographed countless weddings in Cork and Kerry, and every single one has its own unique story.
If you’re recently engaged and searching for a wedding photographer in Clonakilty, West Cork, or anywhere across Ireland, I’d love to chat. My approach is relaxed and natural, capturing real moments rather than stiff poses — the kind of photos you’ll look back on for years and feel the emotions all over again.
👉 Get in touch here to check my availability for your date.
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Every wedding is different, and that’s exactly what excites me about my work. Whether you’re having a big celebration, a small family gathering, or even an adventurous elopement, I’ll make sure your story is told in the most authentic way possible.
So, if the idea of timeless photos filled with emotion sounds right for you, let’s connect and make something unforgettable together.
Every wedding I shoot is part of something bigger — a hive of real weddings and venue guides across Ireland.
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