My Best Wedding Photography Moments of 2024: Candid, Vibrant, and Full of Emotion
As a wedding photographer based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, 2024 has been a year filled with unforgettable moments — from intimate vows to lively celebrations and everything in between. I’m lucky enough to photograph at some of the most stunning venues across Northern Ireland and Ireland, and each wedding offers its own unique story to tell through my lens.
My photography style is all about capturing the raw, unposed moments, the vibrant colours, and the emotions that define each couple’s day. In this blog, I’ll share some of my favourite wedding photography moments from 2024, with a spotlight on the venues that helped make these images so special.
1. Candid First Look in Belfast City Centre
Belfast City Centre is a fantastic spot for wedding photography, offering a dynamic mix of modern urban vibes and timeless architectural beauty. One of my favourite first looks this year happened just outside Belfast City Hall, where the grand backdrop of the building set the stage for an emotional and candid moment.
The bride’s expression when she saw her partner for the first time was nothing short of magical. The excitement, joy, and nerves were so visible, and I was able to capture that raw emotion in a series of candid images. The vibrant energy of the city provided the perfect contrast to this intimate moment, with people going about their day in the background, all while the couple was completely lost in each other. It’s the kind of shot that brings a smile every time I look at it — a true reflection of what I love about candid wedding photography.
2. Vibrant Reception at The Merchant Hotel
The Merchant Hotel is one of Belfast’s most iconic wedding venues, with its blend of opulent style and classic charm. The reception I photographed there this year was an absolute highlight, as it truly embodied the celebratory spirit of the day.
The energy on the dance floor was contagious, and I was able to capture some incredible candid moments of guests letting loose and having fun. What stood out to me most was the couple’s first dance, which was filled with joy and emotion. It wasn’t just a dance — it was a beautiful, unposed celebration of their love, surrounded by friends and family. The vibrant colours of the room, the movement of the guests, and the heartfelt connections made this one of my favourite shots of 2024.
3. Dramatic Beauty at Titanic Hotel
The Titanic Hotel in Belfast is a venue like no other. With its stunning maritime history and contemporary design, it offers an incredible backdrop for wedding photos. I had the privilege of photographing a wedding here this year, and one of my favourite moments was capturing the couple against the dramatic backdrop of the Titanic Slipways.
The industrial setting, with the towering cranes and the water in the distance, created a striking contrast with the tender, intimate moments between the couple. I love how this location allowed me to create images that were both emotional and bold. The couple's candid portraits in the dramatic surroundings were full of raw emotion, making them some of my favourite photos of the year.
4. Autumn Pre-Wedding Photoshoot at Finnebrogue Woods and Fodder Café
While I love photographing wedding days themselves, there’s something special about pre-wedding shoots, particularly when the couple is completely relaxed in the days leading up to their big day. This autumn, I had the pleasure of shooting an intimate couple’s session at Finnebrogue Woods, one of Northern Ireland’s hidden gems.
The colours of the woods during the autumn months were breathtaking — golden leaves, soft light filtering through the trees, and that crisp, fresh air made for a perfect atmosphere. As the couple walked hand-in-hand through the forest, I captured natural moments of them enjoying each other’s company, laughing, and simply being present in the moment. These candid, intimate shots are some of my personal favourites, as they reflect the real, unfiltered connection between the couple.
After the shoot, we made our way to Fodder Café for a relaxed, cozy break. The warm, rustic vibe of the café was the perfect end to the shoot, and I managed to capture a few candid moments of the couple sipping coffee and chatting together. These photos were full of quiet emotion, and they’re a beautiful reminder of the calm and joy leading up to the wedding day.
6. Dramatic Portraits at Drenagh Estate
Drenagh Estate is a wedding photographer's dream, offering stunning scenery, beautiful gardens, and grand architecture. One of the most dramatic portraits I captured this year was of a couple standing in front of the grand Drenagh house, bathed in soft, golden light. The contrast between the formal, majestic setting and the relaxed, joyful energy of the couple made for a striking image.
In addition to the grand portraits, the estate’s woodlands provided the perfect setting for a series of candid shots. The couple took a quiet moment together in the woods, away from the hustle and bustle of the day, and I was able to capture them sharing a laugh, completely at ease with each other. It was the perfect balance of beauty and emotion, and it’s an image I’ll always remember as one of the highlights of 2024.
Wrapping Up 2024: A Year of Beauty, Emotion, and Connection
Looking back on my wedding photography from 2024, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible couples who allowed me to capture the most important day of their lives. Each wedding was unique, but what stood out to me most were the candid moments, the laughter, and the emotions that made these days unforgettable.
From the urban charm of Belfast to the tranquil beauty of Northern Ireland’s countryside, the venues I had the privilege of working at this year — including the iconic Titanic Hotel, the elegant Culloden Estate, and the rustic beauty of Finnebrogue Woods — each offered something truly special. I’m honoured to be able to capture these memories and share them with couples, their families, and their friends.
As I move into 2025, I can’t wait to continue telling these beautiful stories through my lens, and I’m excited to see what the next year holds.
