Ring of Kerry Wedding Photographer | Waterville, Caherdaniel & Derrynane Weddings
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most iconic drives — winding roads, wild coastlines, mountains rolling down into the Atlantic. For weddings, it’s nothing short of spectacular. Couples travel here from all over the world to marry in places like Waterville, Caherdaniel, and Derrynane — spots that capture the heart of Kerry’s beauty.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve spent years exploring these landscapes with couples. The photos we create here aren’t just pretty backdrops — they’re memories that feel alive every time you look at them.
Why Choose the Ring of Kerry for Your Wedding?
Couples tell me the same thing again and again: there’s nowhere like the Ring of Kerry.
Scenery: rugged coastlines, sweeping bays, mountain passes.
History: ancient ruins, abbeys, and castles.
Atmosphere: Kerry’s warmth and hospitality.
For weddings, it means variety: barefoot vows on Derrynane Beach, an elegant reception in Waterville, or portraits on mountain roads above Caherdaniel.
Top Wedding Venues on the Ring of Kerry
Here are the venues that stand out:
Butler Arms Hotel, Waterville – A seaside hotel with charm, history, and Atlantic views. A favourite for couples who love classic Kerry hospitality.
Smugglers Inn, Waterville – A hidden gem, with food that rivals any top restaurant and sunsets over the sea.
Derrynane Hotel (seasonal) – Tucked beside Derrynane Beach, ideal for relaxed weddings.
Private houses & Airbnbs around Caherdaniel – Perfect for elopements and small celebrations.
No matter the venue, the landscape always plays its part.
Derrynane Weddings
Derrynane Beach is one of the most beautiful in Ireland. White sand, turquoise water, islands dotted on the horizon — it’s incredible for wedding photos. I’ve photographed couples walking hand in hand across the sand, eloping by the dunes, and celebrating barefoot with the waves behind them.
It’s the kind of place you never forget.
Caherdaniel Weddings
Caherdaniel is a small village with big scenery. Surrounded by mountains and overlooking Derrynane Bay, it’s peaceful, authentic, and full of character. Many couples use Caherdaniel as their base while exploring the Ring, combining village life with wild portraits on the coast.
Waterville Weddings
Waterville has long been loved as a holiday town, and it makes an incredible wedding spot too. The Butler Arms Hotel is a classic, sitting right on the seafront, and couples often slip out during the reception for portraits on the promenade or cliffs nearby.
Waterville sunsets are something else — warm, golden, and perfect for photos.
Elopements on the Ring of Kerry
Elopements here are popular with couples from the US, Canada, and across Europe. Imagine driving the Ring of Kerry, stopping at hidden coves, saying your vows overlooking the sea, and finishing with dinner in a village pub.
I guide couples to the best spots: quiet stretches of Derrynane Beach, dramatic mountain passes, or ruined abbeys that feel like stepping back in time.
Real Weddings on the Ring
One of my favourite days was a couple who married in Waterville, then drove with me to Derrynane for portraits. The skies changed constantly — sun, showers, wind — and every photo had its own mood.
Another was an elopement at Caherdaniel. Just the couple, their celebrant, and the Atlantic. Simple, powerful, unforgettable.
That’s the Ring of Kerry: unpredictable, but always spectacular.
My Photography Style
I photograph weddings in a documentary style — natural, relaxed, storytelling. You won’t spend hours posing. Instead, you’ll enjoy the day while I capture the real story: your vows, your guests, your laughter, and your quiet moments.
For the Ring of Kerry, that means blending candid photos with epic landscapes — so you’ll remember not just how the day looked, but how it felt.
Planning Tips for Ring of Kerry Weddings
Travel: Roads are narrow and winding — allow extra time between locations.
Weather: Expect four seasons in one day. Bring layers, and embrace the drama.
Guests: Accommodation is spread out — book early in places like Waterville and Caherdaniel.
Timing: Golden hour at Derrynane is unbeatable — plan portraits around sunset.
Booking Your Ring of Kerry Wedding Photographer
If you’re planning a wedding in Waterville, Caherdaniel, or Derrynane and want photographs that capture both the scenery and the soul of the day — I’d love to hear from you.
📌 Explore my wedding packages.
📌 Or visit my contact page to check availability.
Why Couples Book JOD Photography for Ring of Kerry Weddings
The Ring of Kerry is a dream for couples — and it’s just as much of a dream for me to photograph. Over the years, I’ve captured weddings from Waterville to Caherdaniel, with vows on Derrynane Beach and celebrations in the Butler Arms Hotel.
Couples tell me they book me because I understand Kerry — the light, the weather, the backdrops. I also keep things simple: fair pricing and clear packages mean no surprises, and my contact page makes it easy to check if your date is free.
Reviews From Real Couples
“We got married in Waterville and James was incredible. He knew the best spots for portraits and made the day feel effortless. Our album is stunning — it feels like reliving the day.” – Aoife & Brian
“We eloped on Derrynane Beach and James made it relaxed and fun. The photos are breathtaking. His pricing is fair and honest — no hidden extras. Highly recommend.” – Laura & Chris
You can read more on my about page where I share my story and client testimonials.
Transparent, Fair Pricing
Weddings can be overwhelming, and I believe photography should be straightforward. That’s why my wedding packages are clear and simple.
Every package includes:
Full-resolution edited images
A private online gallery for you and your guests
Sneak peeks within days of the wedding
Travel across Kerry included
You can also add albums or a folio box for a handcrafted keepsake.
Linking the Ring of Kerry to Other Dream Locations
Many couples looking at the Ring of Kerry also explore nearby hubs. I’ve built detailed guides so you can compare:
Love Derrynane Beach? Check out Inchydoney weddings in West Cork for another seaside experience.
Thinking about Butler Arms Hotel in Waterville? Compare with Ballinacurra House in Kinsale.
Want epic cliff portraits? My Dingle & Slea Head guide shows another iconic Kerry coastline.
Prefer a more private feel? Explore Kenmare & Sneem weddings.
Looking for intimacy with mountains and lakes? Gougane Barra elopements are pure magic.
This interlinks your planning journey — so wherever you look in Cork or Kerry, you’ll find a hub packed with real advice and photos.
Why Choose JOD Photography Over Others
There are lots of photographers in Kerry, but couples choose me because:
Relaxed documentary style — no stiff poses, just real moments.
Local knowledge — I know the quiet corners of Derrynane and the best light in Caherdaniel.
Trusted by couples — I’ve built a reputation with five-star reviews.
Fast delivery — sneak peeks within days, full galleries without long waits.
Clear pricing — check my packages and you’ll see what I mean
