Bride and groom posing in front of the wild Atlantic way in valentia island Co Kerry

Ring of Kerry Wedding Photographer | Waterville, Caherdaniel & Derrynane Weddings

If you’re planning a wedding anywhere in County Kerry, you can explore my main Kerry wedding photographer guide here.

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.

Newlyweds walking hand in hand after ceremony
Bride and groom sharing a kiss in front of dramatic mountain scenery – JOD Photography

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.

Documentary wedding moment captured by the sea – JOD Photography
Posing next to a vintage car is a bride and groom outside a church on Valentia Island Co Kerry

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.

Couple walking along scenic mountain road on wedding day – JOD Photography
Natural elopement portrait with dramatic landscape backdrop – JOD Photography

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.

Planning a Wedding along the Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry, including Waterville, Caherdaniel, and Derrynane, is known for scenic coastal weddings. Most couples choose their venue first before finalising photography plans.

Wedding Venues in Kerry – Hotels, Estates & Coastal Locations Small Wedding Venues in Kerry – Intimate & Relaxed Options

Choosing your venue early helps shape travel, timelines, and the overall flow of a Ring of Kerry wedding day.

Romantic sunset wedding photo overlooking the ocean – JOD Photography

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.


 

 


Working With a Ring of Kerry Wedding Photographer

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

Candid wedding laughter captured outdoors in natural light – JOD Photography