Western Ireland 2025
Join David Clapp on a fabulous tour of the dramatic coast of Western Ireland
Fully Booked
Price
£2,300.00 / £500.00 deposit
Dates
7th - 15th Jun 2025
Join David Clapp on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of Western Ireland. This week-long photo tour (9 days) is designed for photographers who wish to capture the breathtaking beauty of Ireland's landscapes. We will be based in two locations - Doolin and Killarney, both renowned for their stunning natural beauty and rugged landscape.
Killarney: A Paradise for Landscape Photography
After arriving in Shannon, our first stop is Killarney, a town nestled among the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a paradise for landscape photography, with its combination of mountains, lakes, woodlands, and waterfalls. This also gives us access to the fabulous Ring of Kerry, which has some incredible cliffs, vistas and long lens opportunities. There are also lighthouses and sublime rural countryside to explore, as well as abbeys, ruins and abandoned buildings in many delightful locations.
We will explore iconic locations such as Ross Castle, Gap of Dunloe, and Torc Waterfall, each offering unique photographic opportunities. The 'Meeting of the Waters', where the three Killarney lakes meet, is another must-visit spot for capturing stunning landscape images.
Western Ireland 2025 1
Western Ireland 2025 1
Doolin: Gateway to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher
The second half of the journey is based in Doolin, a charming coastal village known for its traditional Irish music and stunning natural beauty. Doolin has some incredible coastline which we will photograph in the evening light, as well as limestone formations to the north. Huge limestone boulders, cracked pavement and the flora that live within it make superb picture opportunities. We will also photograph The Burren, a higher limestone pavement with spectacular vistas like Mullaghmore, as well as rare flora, and ancient archaeological sites.
Slea Head has some spectacular and unusual coastline which I also wish to visit as well as some iconic headland, standing stones and a shoot on the headland above the Dingle Peninsula.
A highlight of our stay in Doolin will be a visit to the world-famous
Cliffs of Moher. These majestic cliffs rise dramatically from the
Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and fantastic photo
opportunities.
Day Trip to the Arran Islands
We are taking a day trip out to the Arran Islands, a marvellous place with small field systems, beaches, lighthouses and more. We will hire electric bikes and ride around the island shooting the famous shipwreck, lighthouse and other
Wildlife Bolt-On
Last time I was in Doolin I was able to shoot a lot of seabirds, by making a trip south to Loop Head. There were fulmars and gannets in abundance, as well as a lot to see on the way. I really think this would make a great excursion and allow us the chance to shoot something we wouldn't normally be able to access.
Enhancing Your Skills
Throughout the tour, we will focus on enhancing your landscape photography skills. As always we will concentrate on different composition techniques as a primary source of leaning, understanding how to capture the essence of a location. There are plenty of opportunities to shoot long exposures on the cliffs as well as low light imagery into the late evening.
What to Expect
This tour is a great way of experiencing the beauty and culture of Western Ireland. You'll enjoy traditional Irish music in Doolin, taste local cuisine and of course a few pints of Guinness. An evening out in Doolin is a great way of enjoying Irish culture.
Join Me
Join us on this unforgettable journey through Western Ireland. Capture the enchanting landscapes, experience the rich culture, and enhance your photography skills. This tour is more than just a trip; it's an experience that will leave you with lasting memories and stunning photographs.
Western Ireland 2025 1
Western Ireland 2025 1
Western Ireland 2025 1
Additional Information
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What flights do you recommend?
A few UK airports can fly directly in Shannon, which cuts out the 3 hour car journey from Dublin. The easiest location to fly from is London, which has a flight every day. Recommended flights will be sent over nearer the time.
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Where do I meet you?
In Shannon Airport Arrivals. I will be in Ireland already, so if you do arrive early on a different international flight than the recommended flight, then I will give you the exact location of where to meet nearer the time. Contact me for further information.
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Tell me about the accommodation
We will be using AirBnb style accommodation based in both Killarney and also Doolin. The reason for this choice is convenience, location and cost. The accommodation is comfortable and high quality, which also removes the tediousness of travelling from hotels.
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What does fitness level 'moderate' mean?
You need to be capable of walking for sustained periods, along footpaths and up moderate inclines. There will be no strenuous activity but it is advised that you take walks before the trips so you can cope with eight days of photography.
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Are you shooting dawn and sunsets?
We will be shooting sunsets, to make the most of the times of good light, and we will be active at any time of day, as moorland conditions like cloudbursts and rainbows can be utterly spectacular. We won’t be doing dawn shoots (unless agreed between us) as it’s early Summer, so daylight hours are very long (and also to avoid group instability), we will mostly enjoy sunsets only or we will be completely wasted.
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Weather and Clothing
Average High: Approximately 16-19°C
Average Low: Ranges from 10-12°CThis is Ireland, so expect everything! Ensure you bring good quality footwear. Walking boots are not essential as walking shoes should suffice, but do bring a pair of wellingtons with thick socks - these are essential for shooting at the coast. It’s great to get your feet in the sea for some truly amazing images. Ensure a hat and gloves are part of your wardrobe as early mornings can see significant drops in temperature.
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Camera Kit
An array of focal lengths will always benefit the us. A wide angle lens (16-35), medium zoom (24-70) and a longer zoom (70-300) will be ideal to cover most compositional eventualities. The most used will be the 24-70 as wide angle doesn’t always translate, so make sure this focal length is covered.
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Do I need a computer?
Although not essential, it’s a great idea to bring a laptop computer with you so you can discuss imagery with myself and others in the group. It really is a great learning experience, so I highly recommend bringing a laptop to learn and for personal entertainment.
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What computer support do you give?
I make a point of tutoring all my clients on digital photography to help complete the learning process. I am renowned as a leading digital professional and I will be screen recording my sessions so the learning continues after the workshop ends. I have extensive knowledge to communicate on all levels and I spend time with all my clients helping them to process their images to a high standard. It really helps to have a computer session when tiredness takes hold, or inclement weather persists.