My approach to capturing Ireland’s landscapes is my own. The purpose of this body of work is not just to share the experience through the final print, but to elevate the viewer, including myself, at the time of making the work. The prints, hanging quietly, serve as a gentle reminder for us to slow down and be in the moment, away from everyday challenges and deadlines. Whether you are a photographer, collector, or admirer of the Irish countryside, it is my pleasure to present, in my original way, the abundant landscapes of Ireland. I welcome any feedback, as it is valuable information for me to learn and improve.
While I am drawn to popular places like Killarney, Co. Kerry; Kinsale, Co. Cork; Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare; or Roundstone, Connemara, Co. Galway, there is a unique joy in stumbling upon the hidden gems that still exist in the more remote and untouched areas of Ireland. It is often intuition and a gut feeling that leads to a beautiful spot, a spot that you may never have found unless you were open to being guided by an innate adventurous spirit. It is a time to switch off and be guided, a bit like being in flow or in the zone, like a well-prepared athlete would be. It is a state of gratefulness that attracts just what you would like without any effort.
To touch on the gear, although it is essential up to a point, the simpler it is, the better. So, in my case, I use one camera and one lens and rarely a tripod, as, for the most part, it hinders my flow. A photographer’s primary skill is recognising something worth recording and reading the scene in a way that will deliver something special. The actual camera is secondary, as only a baseline knowledge of the technical end of the camera and the lens is required to make good pictures. With experimentation and many failures, you can learn composition and develop your eye for taking better photos of Ireland. You can also learn the techniques to capture truly moving scenes fitting the message you would like to convey.
I grew up on black and white photography, and that is what I am mainly about, although I also make colour images when the mood dictates it. The Irish landscape changes from season to season, and the changing light, clouds, and weather mean that colour certainly has its place. It also means that moody, timeless black-and-white landscapes are always an option through changing weather patterns. I love that unpredictability; it brings an element of surprise and regularly throws up unusual opportunities, so please ensure you always have your gear nearby.
It may look like we are selling the beautiful Irish landscape photography on our website, but let’s face it—it is selling itself effortlessly.
Thank you sincerely, Patrick Donald
