Ireland: Donegal and the Causeway Coast Photography Workshop

Dramatic Coastline and Fields of Green on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway Coast

August 28 – September 5, 2027

  • Historic coastline & striking basalt columns in soft late summer light
  • Two-nights on Tory Island—surrounded by the raw beauty of the Atlantic
  • Plenty of hands-on landscape photography instruction

In Ireland, coastal cliffs meet farmland, and the adjacent stone walls follow the rhythm of a landscape shaped by light, weather, and history. The Atlantic crashes against rugged shores, soft evening light falls on castle ruins, and the skies are always changing. From windswept peninsulas and lighthouses to pastures and narrow lanes, Ireland provides variety and character during every shoot.

This workshop combines the grandeur of wide coastal vistas with the intimacy of Ireland’s hidden corners. You’ll photograph open seascapes and woodlands near Killarney, explore the charm of the Dingle Peninsula, and find stillness in traditional cottages and along the Burren coast. Each day will have a mix of busy towns, calm countryside, and coastal drama – all full of photographic opportunities.

Learning is continuous throughout this workshop with focused practice on techniques such as exposure bracketing, near/far compositions, focus stacking, movement in water, and others as appropriate. We’ll work alongside you to develop your photographic vision and help you see in new and exciting ways, teaching you skills in composition, camera techniques, and post-processing that will last long after the workshop.

With a small group and plenty of time in the field, you’ll learn to respond to Ireland’s changing light with intention and creativity. Whether framing a castle under moody skies, catching colour in a harbour village, or finding quiet in the countryside, you’ll go home with a thoughtful portfolio and a deeper connection to this timeless landscape.

Also, be sure to check our trip report by client Leslie Barlow, here.

Your Pros

Nick Hanson
Nick Hanson
Bernard Geraghty
Bernard Geraghty

Itinerary

This itinerary is subject to change due to weather, local conditions, and other factors.

August 28, 2027: Arrival in Donegal, Sunset Photography at Hotel

The workshop begins today in Donegal. For your travel to Donegal, we recommend that you arrive in Dublin anytime on or before August 27 so that you are ready to depart for Donegal today at 11:50 AM. We will provide flight details for the specific flight you should be on.

We will meet you at the Donegal airport to transfer you to our hotel. We’ll have a short introduction, dinner, and then photograph the sunset.


August 28 – September 1, 2027: Exploring Donegal’s Lighthouses, Beaches, Rugged Cliffs

There is so much to photograph during our four days in Donegal. Its famous lighthouses are perched in places out of a dream. The beaches and their beauty will take your breath away, and its rugged cliffs, sea arches, and stacks will leave you speechless. Plus, there are the mountains, lakes, shipwrecks, and castles!


September 1–3, 2027: Boat Journey to Tory Island, Dramatic Coastal Photography

Today, we will take you on a short boat journey from the mainland to a remote island in the northwest of Ireland called Tory Island, our home for two nights.

Tory Island is a photographer’s dream with its dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and ridges — all within a 2km radius. With only one small hotel on the island, it will feel like our own private getaway. We’ll photograph the stunning coast at sunrise and sunset and spend the days exploring the island and reviewing our images.


September 3–5, 2027: Discover the Giants Causeway, Iconic Coastline Scenes

The Causeway Coast needs no introduction, but here it is anyway! Let’s start with the Giants Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns and countless compositions are a photographer’s dream. The Causeway Coast boasts cliff tops, sea stacks, bothies, a rope bridge, and a dramatic landscape. It’s easy to see why HBO opted to film Game of Thrones here, making the likes of Ballintoy Harbour, DunlCastle, and The Dark Hedges world famous.


September 5, 2027: Departure Day, Farewells and Flights from Ireland

We will drop you off at the airport for your flight home, which can be any time after 3:00 PM.


Testimonials

Words literally cannot come close to describing the experience Bernard strives to provide for his clients. I've been on several of his tours over the years and he's aging like a fine wine. While his ability to always provide amazing locations to shoot in the right conditions seems almost clairvoyant-like, it is most certainly down to his boundless energy and willingness to go above and beyond for his clients. His greatest asset by far, however, is his ability to help create a comfortable environment for complete strangers to all feel welcome in and create memories together in. Thanks again Bernard for an amazing trip. You always over deliver and I can't wait for the next one!
Michelle C.
Donegal and Northern Ireland Coast '24
The hotels were superb, offering a high level of comfort and relaxation after our busy days. Each one provided a welcoming atmosphere that made our stay enjoyable. Additionally, the food venues we visited were outstanding, with a fantastic variety of delicious options that added to the overall experience. From the quality of the accommodations to the superb dining choices, everything contributed to a truly memorable and satisfying trip.
Steve S.
Donegal and the Causeway Coast '25
The accommodations were well done across the various realities of the sites visited.
Michelle C.
Donegal and Northern Ireland Coast '24
The three instructors were exceptional. I particularly appreciated Bernard’s detailed summaries and introductions for each location, which were instrumental in helping us capture the perfect shot. His guidance was incredibly valuable, and all three instructors were hands-on with camera settings and composition, ensuring we got the best possible results. Additionally, the expert advice on new photography techniques that I hadn’t previously considered was immensely valuable. Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with the level of instruction provided throughout the workshop.
Gallery

Behind the Scenes

A Note On Lodging

We've selected hotels that best suit our itinerary. Some of them are historical buildings lacking amenities like an elevator. We will gladly assist, but your luggage must be carried upstairs. Our accommodations on Tory Island will be clean and comfortable but also rustic.

Fitness

Moderate: You must be able to hike with your camera pack and tripod up to two miles on uneven ground.

Flights

Arrive at Donegal Airport (CFN), Donegal, Ireland before 1:00 PM on August 28, 2027. Depart at Dublin Airport (DUB), Dublin, Ireland after 3:00 PM on September 5, 2027. Air travel delays are common. Please arrive early, possibly even the day prior, so you don’t miss any of the workshop.

What to Bring

Please see our page How To Prepare For Your Workshop. We will send you a detailed information document 90 days before your workshop. This document will include specifics of where and when to meet, gear and clothing recommendations, and more.

What’s Included

  • Double occupancy lodging. Single available for $1,500 supplement.
  • All meals, soft drinks, and snacks during the workshop.
  • All permits and park fees.
  • All transportation during the workshop.
  • Tips for crew, drivers, and local guides.
  • Photographic guiding and instruction from 3 pros.
  • Image reviews and post-processing instruction.
  • Adventure, fun, inspiration, and a great time!

Not Included

  • Travel to Donegal, Ireland and from Dublin, Ireland.
  • Unscheduled airport transfers.
  • Passport and visa fees (if applicable).
  • Any meals or accommodations before or after the workshop dates.
  • Items of a personal nature.
  • Alcoholic Beverages.
  • Travel Medical and Trip Cancellation Insurance (optional, but recommended).
  • Anything else specifically not listed as included.
  • Single rooming available for $1,500 supplement.

Payment Terms

  • Your deposit of $4,995 will hold your space in this workshop.
  • Further payment of $3,000 is due by December 1, 2026.
  • The balance is due not later than April 1, 2027.
  • All of our standard Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Need special payment arrangements? No problem, just ask us.

Frequently Asked Questions

You'll practice exposure bracketing, near/far compositions, focus stacking, and capturing movement in water. The workshop also covers composition, camera techniques, and post-processing skills to enhance your photographic vision.

Yes, this workshop is refundable. Cancellations made more than 150 days before the start date receive a full refund. Between 150 and 91 days, you receive a refund of payments exceeding 50% of tuition, and between 90 and 61 days, a refund of payments exceeding 75% of tuition. No refunds are given within 60 days unless we fill your space, in which case you receive a 100% refund. All refunds are issued by the same payment method and are subject to a 5% administrative processing fee.

The workshop has a maximum capacity of 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and ample time for each photographer to explore and learn.

A moderate fitness level is required. You must be able to hike up to two miles on uneven ground with your camera pack and tripod.

Accommodations include double occupancy lodging in historical buildings, some without elevators. On Tory Island, expect clean and comfortable but rustic lodging. Single rooms are available for a $1,500 supplement.

Arrive at Donegal Airport before 1:00 PM on August 28, 2027, and depart from Dublin Airport after 3:00 PM on September 5, 2027. It's recommended to arrive a day early to avoid missing the workshop due to travel delays.

Travel medical and trip cancellation insurance are optional but recommended to protect your investment and ensure peace of mind during your travels.

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