My guide aims to answer any questions you have about what to wear and what to expect from your couple or engagement session!
Engagement | Couples | adventurers
WEST CORK | KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK | KENMARE | DINGLE
What to expect from your couple photoshoot in Ireland
While some of my clients are dab hands in front of the camera, other couples tell me that they’ve never had professional photos taken of them before or that they’re nervous about being in front of the camera. Don’t worry, you’re in good company.
A big part of my role is to help you feel as relaxed and natural as possible during our session. Here are some of the ways I achieve this…
- No awkward poses - I want you to feel like yourselves. How can you do this if I micro-manage or make you stand in very static poses during our sessions? I love having fun and our sessions will be playful yet romantic, I’ll gently encourage you to move, interact and connect with each other in different ways. This is a time when you get to cuddle up with your partner and show them, how much you care, that includes playing with her hair, kissing his cheek, holding hands and embracing.
- I’ll guide you in a way that reflects your relationship. Throughout the session I’ll ask if any of my gentle directions would be something you’d normally do in your day-to-day relationship. And it is 100% OKAY to say no. I really really want you to feel comfortable like the time spent is a natural reflection on how you’d act together normally.
- I won’t ask you to stand still and smile at the camera. Aside from maybe taking the ‘mantelpiece’ photo for your family (you know, the one which your Nana might want to frame for above the fire). Most of our session will be focussed on creating moments between you as a couple – rather than between you and the camera. We are going to rev up the romance factor!
- You don’t need to look or act like a model to get epic beautiful images. A lot of my couples come to me thinking they have to act, look, or pose a certain way to get the ‘best’ images. Trust me, the best images you’ll get are where you let your guard down, embrace the wild Irish elements, stunning scenery and just focus on each other – they are the ones which will transport you back in time and create that wonderful sense of nostalgia.
Aside from a smile on your face....
Aside from a smile on your face....
What should you bring to your photo session?
What should you bring to your photo session?
What to wear to your Cork or Killarney photoshoot?
My editing style is natural and organic, I suggest wearing tones such as creams, mustard, greens, burgundy, navy or blues. I would avoid wearing black so that you to stand out and look amazing in your photoshoot! Since Irish landscapes can be quite green and dark (depending on the season), coupled with my editing style, a cosy knit jumper, a long flowing dress or a longer classic coat, coupled with a warm scarf can look very stylish + feel warm at the same time.
When it comes to dressing up with your partner, it's important to complement each other without necessarily matching. You can do this by wearing something that comes from the same genre, whether it's formal or relaxed, or by choosing colors that work well together.
The most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident during the photoshoot, so wear something that makes you feel like a million bucks!
- For the ladies : Think a long flowing dress that will catch in the wind (think Outlander), or jeans and a warm fluffy aran jumper
- For the men : Think aran jumpers chinos or jeans!
And remember, I'm here to help you capture an incredible Irish adventure that you'll treasure forever, so let's make it a fun and memorable experience!
When is the best time of year to get couple / engagement photos in Ireland?
Spring (March to May):
- Mild temperatures (average high of 11-14°C/52-57°F)
- Longer days with more daylight
- Blooming flowers such as bluebells and daffadills
- Less crowded tourist spots
- Lots of wind and rain, come prepared for changeable weather!
Summer (June to August):
- Warmer temperatures (average high of 16-19°C/61-66°F)
- Even longer days with more daylight
- Vibrant green landscapes and blue skies
- Plenty of outdoor activities such as the beach or a sunset hike
Fall (September to November):
- Mild to cool temperatures (average high of 11-14°C/52-57°F in September, cooling to 7-10°C/44-50°F in November)
- Probably my favourite season for couple photographs
- Beautiful autumn colors in the foliage
- Fewer tourists at popular locations
- Cozy indoor activities like visiting museums or enjoying a pub
Winter (December to February):
- Cool to cold temperatures (average high of 6-9°C/43-48°F in December and January, warming up to 10-11°C/50-52°F in February)
- Shorter days with less daylight
- Possibility of snow, which can make for some unique and beautiful photos
- Cozy indoor activities like enjoying a traditional Irish pub or visiting a castle
Pack Lightly
We'll be walking around quite a bit , so you don't want to be weighed down or feel restricted. Irish weather is changeable at the best of times - so it's always a good idea to bring a raincoat. (See below for further tips on how to prepare for wet weather)
And if it's a chilly day, a hot flask of tea or coffee, a snack & a blanket would be perfect for warming up together.
Footwear
Sturdy footwear is also a good idea. Even our mountain scapes can be a bit muddy, so make sure you wear something with good grip and ankle support.
You can always change into something else during the session if you need to.
During the summer months you can go bare foot!
Accessories
If you want to switch up your look a bit, feel free to bring some small or lightweight accessories like scarves, or hats.
And if you think you might need to freshen up your makeup during the session, bringing some lipsticks, hair brush, or face powders would be a good idea too.
Bring a change of clothes – especially if you plans directly after.
What to expect
What if it rains during our Couple Photoshoot?
Let's be clear here, the weather in Ireland is changeable, from wet and windy one minute, to warm and still the next!
I tell my couples to embrace to not get too hung up on the weather but to dress accordingly & have a backup. Rain or shine, Ireland is a beautiful country that is rich in history and culture, making it the perfect destination for a romantic photoshoot. And while sunny days may seem ideal for capturing beautiful shots, there's something magical about embracing the rain and using it to create stunning, intimate photos that capture the true essence of the couple's love story.
The rain can add a moody and ethereal quality to the photos, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. Imagine the couple strolling hand in hand under an umbrella, the rain gently falling around them while they share a loving gaze. Or, imagine the couple embracing each other as the rain pours down, creating a captivating and cinematic moment. Of course, it's important to stay warm and dry during the photoshoot. But that doesn't mean sacrificing style!
Couples can bring out their most stylish waterproof jackets, rain boots, and umbrellas (I have these) to create a chic and practical look. Layers of clothing can also keep them cozy while still allowing them to show off your unique sense of style.
As a photographer, I use creative techniques such as capturing reflections on a wet surface or shooting through raindrops on a window can add a magical touch to the photos. And don't forget about the locations! Ireland has plenty of charming and picturesque spots that can offer some protection from the rain while still providing a stunning backdrop for the photos.
Overall, embracing the rain for a photoshoot in Ireland can create a truly unforgettable experience for you and capture the essence of your love story in a unique and beautiful way.
TOP TIP: Pack a spare change of clothes, socks and boots to change into, post shoot! Wear a wide brimmed hat if you're worried about your hair and make up and pack a hip flask of whisky (or hot chocolate) to heat up!!!
The full Irish
If you're traveling to the beautiful Ireland, why not include some traditional Irish clothing such as Aran sweaters or tweed jackets? Let's aim for a chic Irish-inspired outfit that showcases your unique style, while still feeling authentic and comfortable in front of the camera. Choose colors that complement the location and the season. (Hit me up if you need help with this)
For those who want to invest in Irish knitwear, I recommend checking out Aran Wollen Mills , who create beautiful Aran sweaters and other traditional Irish garments. If your looking for modern irish textile designers then Liadan Aiken, mixes traditional methods with modern fun colours, or contemporary bespoke knitwear - handmade in Ireland using 100% Merino wool traditionally spun in Donegal by Pearl Reddington
As for tweed, it's a fabric that's closely associated with Ireland and can add a touch of heritage to your photoshoot while still remaining subtle. I recommend visiting local Irish brands such as Magee 1866, who offer modern and authentic tweed pieces for both men and women. Local stores such as Blarney Woollen Mills and Kerry Woollen Mills stock these items in store too.
So, whether it's a cozy Aran sweater or a timeless tweed jacket, incorporating traditional Irish clothing into your photoshoot can be a great way to add a touch of Irish charm to your memories without looking too much.
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