Katie & Tristian | Castle Leslie Estate

The atmosphere at Castle Leslie Estate was something else, a morning full of easy laughter, great craic, and a group of people genuinely buzzing for the day ahead. This historic Monaghan estate always provides a stunning backdrop, but it was the energy of the crowd that really made it. With a large contingent of Americans making the trip over to celebrate, there was a brilliant, high-energy fusion of cultures that kept the spirit of the day soaring from the ceremony right through to the dance floor.

I photographed the day naturally as it all unfolded, documenting the honest, unscripted interactions that make a wedding unique. For their portraits, we took some time to wander against the backdrop of the castle’s timeless architecture and sweeping lake views. I kept the vibe light and effortless, offering just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable and looked their best without ever feeling staged. It was all about real moments, genuine connection, and that classic Irish hospitality meeting American enthusiasm.

The Vibe

The Couple: Katie & Tristian

The Venue: Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan

The Connection: An epic Irish-American celebration

The Style: Modern, natural, and candid

The Approach: Relaxed portraits with a focus on movement and light

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Aoife & Cormac | Cabra Castle

There is a certain magic to a wedding at Cabra Castle, and Aoife and Cormac’s day was the perfect example of grand surroundings met with a totally relaxed vibe. The morning kicked off with plenty of craic and a chilled atmosphere that set the tone for the rest of the celebration.

I captured the day exactly as it happened, focusing on the honest, unscripted moments that made the day theirs. For their portraits, we wandered through the castle’s golden corridors and across the sweeping grounds, making the most of that historic Kingscourt charm. My approach was all about keeping things easy and movement-based—offering just enough direction to ensure they looked their best without ever feeling forced. No stiff posing, just a modern, natural look at their connection in a truly majestic setting.

The Castle Story

The Couple: Aoife & Cormac

The Venue: Cabra Castle, Kingscourt

The Vibe: Majestic, relaxed, and full of life

The Style: Modern documentary with a focus on real moments

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Shannon & Conall | Old Court Wedding Company

The rustic, seaside charm of Old Court Wedding Company in Strangford was the ultimate setting for Shannon and Conall’s day. From a morning filled with easy-going craic to a ceremony that felt completely personal, the whole day was a masterclass in relaxed, high-energy celebrations.

I documented the day naturally as it flowed, keeping my lens on the genuine laughs and the unscripted moments that happen when everyone is just in great form. For their portraits, we made the most of the estate’s wild, wooded corners and the stunning coastal views over the lough. I kept things light and comfortable, providing just enough direction to keep the shots flattering while avoiding anything that felt stiff or staged. It was all about real connection and honest movement in one of Co. Down’s most unique venues.

The Estate Story

The Couple: Shannon & Conall

The Venue: Old Court Wedding Company, Strangford

The Vibe: Rustic, coastal, and full of character

The Style: Modern storytelling with a natural edge

Abbie & Andrew | Boyne Hill House

Abbie and Andrew’s wedding at Boyne Hill House was the definition of a "good craic" wedding. Bathed in brilliant sunshine, the day felt less like a formal event and more like a vibrant summer garden party. The good weather allowed the celebration to spill out across the estate’s hidden gardens and secret tunnels, creating a relaxed, high-energy atmosphere from start to finish.

A major highlight was the inclusion of their dog, who was right in the thick of the action, adding an extra layer of fun and personality to the day. I documented the celebration in a natural, documentary style, focusing on the spontaneous laughter and the lighthearted moments that made this wedding so unique. For their portraits, we made the most of the golden light across the Co. Meath countryside, keeping things movement-based and effortless. It was a day defined by bright energy, genuine connection, and the kind of fun that only happens when a great crowd (and a pup) comes together in the sun.

The Details

The Couple: Abbie & Andrew (plus their dog)

The Venue: Boyne Hill House, Co. Meath

The Weather: Stunning summer sun.

The Vibe: Fun, high-energy, and full of craic

The Style: Relaxed, light-filled documentary photography

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Shauna & Mark | Bellingham Castle

The historic elegance of Bellingham Castle provided the most incredible backdrop for Shauna and Mark’s wedding day. It was a day defined by easy-going charm, starting with a chilled morning and plenty of craic that set the tone for a celebration that was as relaxed as it was beautiful.

I captured the story of the day exactly as it happened, focusing on those small, honest moments between the big events. We took a wander through the castle’s manicured gardens and along the riverbank for their portraits, making the most of the grand Irish estate vibes. My approach was all about keeping things comfortable and flattering, using just enough direction to ensure they looked their best without losing that sense of real connection. No stiff poses or forced smiles—just a modern, natural reflection of two people having the time of their lives in a truly stunning castle setting.

The Castle Story

The Couple: Shauna & Mark

The Venue: Bellingham Castle, Co. Louth

The Setting: Exclusive castle luxury and riverside gardens

The Style: Timeless, natural, and candid

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Caitlin & Chris | Darver Castle

Caitlin and Chris’s wedding at Darver Castle was a beautiful, heart-led celebration that put family right at the center of everything. The historic stone walls of the castle provided a warm and intimate setting for a day that felt less like a formal event and more like a big, joyous family reunion.

Because the day was so family-orientated, my focus was on capturing the multi-generational moments, from the kids running around the courtyard to the quiet, emotional interactions between grandparents and the newlyweds. I documented the story in a natural, documentary style, ensuring that the finished gallery reflected the real bonds and the relaxed atmosphere of the day. For their portraits, we kept things simple and stress-free, taking a wander through the castle grounds for some quiet time together before heading back to the heart of the party. It was a day defined by genuine warmth, honest laughter, and the people who matter most.

The Castle Story

The Couple: Caitlin & Chris

The Venue: Darver Castle, Co. Louth

The Focus: Family-orientated and heart-led

The Vibe: Warm, inclusive, and relaxed

The Style: Natural documentary and honest storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Liz & Sean | Slieve Donard Hotel

Liz and Sean’s wedding at the Slieve Donard Hotel was a masterclass in winter elegance. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains, their day embraced the crisp, quiet beauty of a deeply intimate January celebration. With a guest list comprised strictly of family, there was an incredible sense of closeness and warmth that provided a cozy sanctuary against the winter chill.

We braved the elements for a short time on the Newcastle beach, capturing portraits against the moody, cold January sky and the crashing Irish Sea. The raw, natural light of mid-winter offered a stunning, soft aesthetic that perfectly complemented the quiet, private nature of their day. I documented their story in a relaxed, documentary style, focusing on the genuine connection between Liz and Sean and the unfiltered interactions with their nearest and dearest. By keeping the day small and family-focused, the atmosphere remained relaxed, authentic, and perfectly representative of their winter mountain-meets-sea wedding.

The Details

The Couple: Liz & Sean

The Venue: Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle

The Guest List: An intimate, family-only celebration

The Setting: A cold, atmospheric January beach session

The Vibe: Private, cozy-luxe, and deeply personal

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Shannon & Michaela | Cabra Castle

If you’re looking for the definition of "fun party vibes," Shannon and Michaela’s day at Cabra Castle was it. From the second the morning prep started, the energy was through the roof,loads of craic, zero stress, and a bridal party that was 100% there for the celebration.

I documented the day in my signature documentary style, leaning into the chaos and the big, loud laughs that made this wedding so unique. For their portraits, we made the most of the castle’s dramatic stone walls and grand staircases, but kept the mood light and high-energy. I provided just a bit of direction to keep things flattering, but mostly I just let them be themselves, celebrating, laughing, and soaking up every second. No stiff, traditional posing here; just a modern, vibrant look at a day that felt like one massive party from start to finish.

The Party Breakdown

The Couple: Shannon & Michaela

The Venue: Cabra Castle, Co. Cavan

The Vibe: High-energy, loud laughs, and non-stop party vibes

The Style: Modern documentary with a focus on the craic

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Sadie & Brendan | Castle Leslie Estate

Set against the romantic backdrop of Castle Leslie Estate, Sadie and Brendan’s wedding was a timeless celebration of elegance and emotion. The historic grandeur of the Monaghan estate perfectly complemented their relaxed, joyful energy, creating a day that felt both stately and completely intimate. With an Irish and American connection at the heart of the celebration, there was a fantastic blend of traditions and a high-energy atmosphere that carried through from the heartfelt vows to the late-night celebrations.

I documented the day in my signature natural and documentary style, allowing the story to breathe and the genuine moments to take center stage. For their portraits, we made the most of the castle's sweeping views and storied interiors, using just enough direction to keep everything flattering and comfortable. It was a beautiful fusion of classic Irish charm and modern wedding photography, nothing stiff, just real connection and the lively spirit of two families coming together from across the Atlantic in an extraordinary setting.

The Vibe

The Couple: Sadie & Brendan

The Venue: Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan

The Connection: A vibrant Irish-American celebration

The Style: Timeless, elegant, and emotive

The Approach: Natural storytelling and relaxed portraits

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Chloe & Blane | Clandeboye Lodge

There is a distinct, stylish warmth to Clandeboye Lodge, and Chloe and Blane’s day embraced it perfectly. The vibe was effortlessly sophisticated but grounded by a morning of great craic and a guest list that was ready to celebrate from the moment they arrived.

I focused on capturing the day’s energy as it unfolded, documenting the real, unscripted moments that happen when everyone is simply having the best time. For their portraits, we utilized the Lodge’s signature blend of lush, wooded surroundings and contemporary interiors. My approach was all about keeping them moving and laughing offering just enough direction to ensure they looked their best while keeping the results natural and flattering. No stiff posing, just a modern, honest look at their connection in one of Co. Down’s most celebrated venues.

The Details

The Couple: Chloe & Blane

The Venue: Clandeboye Lodge, Co. Down

The Vibe: Chic, intimate, and full of life

The Style: Relaxed storytelling with a modern edge

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Helena & David | Ballymascanlon House Hotel

The sun was out in full force at Ballymascanlon House Hotel, making the most of the stunning 130-acre estate for Helena and David’s big day. With the great weather, the energy was high from the start, a morning of brilliant craic that led straight into an absolute party of a celebration.

I documented the day naturally as the energy built, focusing on the genuine laughs and the unscripted moments that happen when everyone is in top form. For their portraits, we wandered through the sun-drenched gardens and leafy grounds, keeping things light and movement-focused. I provided just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable and looked their best, avoiding anything that felt like a stiff pose. It was a day defined by blue skies, real connection, and a proper party atmosphere in the heart of Co. Louth.

The Details

The Couple: Helena & David

The Venue: Ballymascanlon House Hotel, Co. Louth

The Setting: Sun-drenched estate and gardens

The Vibe: High-energy, joyful, and summer party vibes

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Ruth & Warren | Brackengarth

Summer at Brackengarth is something truly special, and Ruth and Warren’s day made the most of every sun-drenched corner of this hidden gem. The atmosphere was incredibly laid-back, think golden hour glow, garden party vibes, and plenty of craic as the celebration spilled out across the beautiful grounds.

I kept my approach entirely natural, documenting the day as it happened without interrupting the flow. We took some time to wander through the wilder parts of the gardens for their portraits, catching that perfect summer light. I provided just enough direction to keep things looking effortless and flattering, focusing on the genuine laughter and quiet moments between them. Nothing felt staged or stiff; it was simply a modern, relaxed reflection of their day in the heart of the countryside.

The Summer Story

The Couple: Ruth & Warren

The Venue: Brackengarth

The Season: Peak Summer

The Style: Bright, airy, and authentically candid

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Emma & Sherryann | Ten Square Hotel

Emma and Sherryann’s wedding at Ten Square Hotel was the ultimate city-chic celebration right in the heart of Belfast. With the historic City Hall as their backdrop, the day felt modern, vibrant, and full of that unmistakable Belfast energy. From the stylish interior of the hotel to the high spirits of their guests, it was a day defined by laughter and effortless sophistication.

For their portraits, we took a wander into the iconic Cathedral Quarter. The cobbled streets, colorful murals, and industrial textures provided a striking contrast to their wedding attire, creating a gallery that felt both timeless and contemporary. I captured their day in a natural, documentary style, documenting the honest, unscripted moments as they happened. By keeping the portrait session movement-based and relaxed, we were able to capture their genuine connection against the buzz of the city without ever resorting to stiff or traditional poses.

The Details

The Couple: Emma & Sherryann

The Venue: Ten Square Hotel, Belfast

The Portrait Location: Cathedral Quarter

The Vibe: Modern city-chic and vibrant

The Style: Relaxed documentary and urban storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Kristie & Daniel | Galgorm Resort

The Galgorm Resort never fails to bring the drama and the elegance, and Kristie and Daniel’s day was no exception. From the lush riverside views to the stunning Chandelier Room, the vibe was a perfect mix of high-end luxury and completely relaxed, genuine craic.

I stayed true to my natural style, documenting the day as it flowed—capturing the big laughs, the quiet looks, and everything in between. We took a wander down by the rushing waters of the River Maine for their portraits, using the forest trails and the stone bridges as our backdrop. I kept the direction light and easy, making sure they felt like themselves rather than models on a shoot. No stiff poses, no awkwardness, just modern, flattering portraits that caught the real energy of their connection in one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic settings.

The Snapshot

The Couple: Kristie & Daniel

The Venue: Galgorm Resort & Spa, Co. Antrim

The Backdrop: Riverside walks and manor house elegance

The Approach: Relaxed, candid, and timeless

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Jane & Chris | Killeavy Castle Estate

The atmosphere at Killeavy Castle Estate was electric from the start, a morning full of easy laughter, great craic, and a group of people genuinely buzzing for the day ahead.

While I captured the energy of the celebration as it naturally happened, the highlight was slipping away to the family farm for their portraits. There is something incredibly grounding about shooting in a place that holds so much history; it provided the perfect, meaningful backdrop for photos that felt like them. With just a bit of light direction to keep things flattering and comfortable, we kept the vibe easy-going. No stiff, formal posing, just honest moments, deep connection, and a beautiful nod to their roots.

The Snapshot

The Couple: Jane & Chris

The Venue: Killeavy Castle Estate, Co. Armagh

The Portraits: A sentimental detour to the family farm

The Style: Modern, authentic storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Axelle & Neil | Rossaharbour Resort

The lakeside charm of Rossaharbour Resort was the perfect setting for Axelle and Neil’s celebration. Nestled right on the banks of Lough Erne, the day carried that distinct, tranquil Fermanagh energ, plenty of craic, a relaxed pace, and a crowd that was truly up for the party. There was a brilliant atmosphere as French and Irish cultures came together, creating a day that felt both sophisticated and incredibly lively.

I focused on capturing the day as it breathed, documenting the honest, unscripted interactions that make a wedding unique. For their portraits, we took advantage of the stunning waterfront views and the resort’s private jetties. I kept things light and effortless, offering just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable and looked their best without ever feeling staged. It was all about the natural beauty of the lough and the genuine connection between the two of them.

The Details

The Couple: Axelle & Neil

The Venue: Rossaharbour Resort, Co. Fermanagh

The Setting: Lakeside elegance and relaxed resort vibes

The Vibe: A stylish blend of French and Irish connections

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Nenagh & Aaron | Belfast City Wedding

Belfast was at its absolute best for Nenagh and Aaron’s winter celebration. We started with a beautiful ceremony at the iconic Belfast City Hall, where the grand architecture and marble hallways set a perfectly timeless tone for their "I dos."

Stepping out into the crisp air, we dove straight into the heart of the city’s festive spirit. We took a wander through the Belfast Christmas Market, capturing portraits amidst the twinkling lights, wooden chalets, and the brilliant, chaotic energy of the crowds. It was all about movement and mood, nothing forced, just the two of them soaking up the atmosphere. We then made our way to the Titanic Hotel, where the industrial elegance of the Drawing Rooms provided a stunning, historic backdrop for the reception. The entire day was a masterclass in modern city vibes mixed with genuine, unscripted moments.

The City Story

The Couple: Nenagh & Aaron

Ceremony: Belfast City Hall

Portraits: The Belfast Christmas Market

Reception: Titanic Hotel Belfast

The Vibe: Festive, urban, and high-energy

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Laura & Dionel | Slieve Donard Hotel

Nestled between the rugged Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea, Laura and Dionel’s wedding at the Slieve Donard Hotel was the perfect blend of coastal charm and elegant style. The dramatic landscape of Newcastle provided an epic backdrop, but it was the quiet connection and effortless joy of the day that truly stood out.

I captured the celebration using my honest, relaxed documentary approach, focusing on the laughter and the genuine energy of their guests. For their portraits, we took a wander toward the dunes and the iconic red-brick architecture of the hotel, keeping things movement-based and natural. With just enough direction to ensure everything felt flattering and comfortable, we avoided anything stiff. It was simply a timeless reflection of their story at one of Northern Ireland’s most romantic wedding venues.

The Coastal Story

The Couple: Laura & Dionel

The Venue: Slieve Donard Hotel, Co. Down

The Backdrop: The Mourne Mountains & Irish Sea

The Style: Elegant, honest, and relaxed

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Aislinn & Sophie | Murlough Nature Reserve

There is something incredibly raw and romantic about an elopement at Murlough Nature Reserve. With the Mourne Mountains looming in the distance and the wild, windswept dunes stretching out toward the Irish Sea, it was the ultimate setting for Aislinn and Sophie’s portrait session.

We spent the afternoon wandering the boardwalks and the shoreline, capturing the quiet, intimate energy of just the two of them. My goal was to let the landscape and their connection do the talking, keeping things relaxed and unscripted. With just a touch of direction to make the most of the coastal light, we focused on genuine movement rather than stiff poses. The result was a series of honest, modern portraits that felt as wild and beautiful as the Co. Down coast itself.

The Session

Couple: Aislinn & Sophie

Location: Murlough Nature Reserve, Co. Down

Focus: Intimate elopement portraits

Vibe: Wild, cinematic, and authentic

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Orla & Matty | Four Seasons Carlingford

As a Northern & Southern Ireland wedding photographer, I had the pleasure of capturing Orla & Matty’s wedding at the Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford. Set against the stunning views of Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains, their day was a true reflection of who they are, relaxed, joyful, and full of personality.

My documentary wedding photography approach allowed the moments to unfold naturally, from the quiet morning prep to the lively energy of the reception. For their portraits, we made the most of the charming Carlingford backdrop, keeping things easy and unscripted. With just a touch of direction to keep everything flattering, we focused on genuine connection rather than stiff poses. The result was a collection of honest, timeless images that captured the real spirit of their celebration.

The Story

The Couple: Orla & Matty

The Venue: Four Seasons Hotel, Carlingford

The Setting: Seaside charm and mountain views

The Style: Relaxed, honest, and personality-driven

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Anna & Niall | Darver Castle

This was one of those really easy days at Darver Castle, but we added a brilliant twist to the journey with a stop at Tollymore Forest Park on the way. Bringing their dog along for the adventure made it even better, capturing some natural, atmospheric moments under the trees before heading down to the castle for the main event.

The morning was chilled and full of laughs with friends and family, setting the tone for a celebration where the craic was constant and the dance floor genuinely did not quit. I captured everything as it unfolded, documenting the day naturally with a focus on those honest, spontaneous interactions. For their portraits, we kept things simple and no-pressure, letting them just be themselves. It was a day defined by great people, a massive party, and real connection, made even more special by having their dog part of the story.

The Castle Story

The Couple: Anna & Niall

The Pitstop: Tollymore Forest Park (with the dog)

The Venue: Darver Castle, Co. Louth

The Vibe: High-energy party and relaxed laughs

The Style: Modern, honest, and documentary

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Charlene & Lee | Montalto Estate

Set within the stunning woodlands of Montalto Estate, Charlene and Lee’s wedding was a beautiful mix of joy, connection, and calm energy. The estate provided an incredible backdrop, with the morning prep leading into a celebration that felt both intimate and grand.

I captured their day in my natural and relaxed documentary style, letting every moment unfold effortlessly. From the laughter-filled vows to the evening celebrations under the trees, my focus remained on the honest interactions that made their day unique. For their portraits, we explored the hidden trails and lush greenery of the grounds, keeping things light and movement-based. With just a touch of direction to keep them feeling comfortable, we avoided stiff poses in favor of real, timeless images that captured the true spirit of their Northern Ireland wedding.

The Estate Story

The Couple: Charlene & Lee

The Venue: Montalto Estate, Ballynahinch

The Setting: Secluded woodlands and historic charm

The Vibe: Calm, joyful, and effortlessly beautiful

The Style: Modern documentary and natural storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Katie & Ayrton | Darver Castle

Katie and Ayrton’s wedding at Darver Castle was a masterclass in modern romance set within the castle’s historic stone walls. The day carried a refined yet relaxed energy, starting with a morning full of laughter and moving into a celebration that felt both elegant and incredibly fun.

I documented their story with a documentary approach, focusing on those authentic, unscripted moments that truly define a day. For their portraits, we made the most of the textured stonework and the timeless atmosphere of the Co. Louth estate. I kept the session simple and movement-focused, giving just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable and looked their best without ever resorting to stiff or staged poses. The result was a collection of honest, timeless images that captured the genuine connection and vibrant spirit of their celebration.

The Castle Story

The Couple: Katie & Ayrton

The Venue: Darver Castle, Co. Louth

The Vibe: Modern romance meets historic elegance

The Style: Refined, honest, and documentary

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Emma & Chris | Clandeboye Lodge Hotel

Emma and Chris’s wedding at Clandeboye Lodge Hotel was an elegant and joyful celebration surrounded by the lush gardens of County Down. The day perfectly balanced a sense of effortless sophistication with the relaxed luxury that the Lodge is known for, creating an atmosphere that was both refined and high-energy.

I captured their story in a natural, modern documentary style, focusing on the real moments of love and laughter as they happened. For their portraits, we took a wander through the venue’s private grounds, making the most of the vibrant greenery and soft light. I kept the session simple and movement-based, providing just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable and looked their best while avoiding anything that felt stiff or staged. It was a day defined by genuine connection and a brilliant party in a truly beautiful setting.

The Details

The Couple: Emma & Chris

The Venue: Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, Co. Down

The Setting: Lush gardens and relaxed luxury

The Vibe: Sophisticated, joyful, and effortless

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Lizzy & Dwaine | Tollymore Forest Park

Lizzy and Dwaine’s wedding at Tollymore Forest Park embraced the beauty of nature at its finest. Set among the towering trees and golden light of the Mournes, the day had a raw, intimate energy that felt completely unique to them. It was a celebration that swapped traditional ballroom walls for the vast, breathtaking landscape of one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic outdoor locations.

I captured their day in a relaxed, documentary style, focusing on the genuine connection and quiet, romantic moments that happened naturally within the forest. For their portraits, we explored the rugged stone bridges and winding paths, keeping things movement-based and effortless. With just enough direction to keep them feeling comfortable, we let the scale of the forest and their own chemistry do the talking. The result was a collection of honest, timeless images that felt as wild and authentic as the setting itself.

The Forest Story

The Couple: Lizzy & Dwaine

The Venue: Tollymore Forest Park, Co. Down

The Setting: Towering redwoods and Mourne Mountain views

The Vibe: Raw, intimate, and adventurous

The Style: Natural storytelling in the great outdoors

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Sarah & Paul | Station House Hotel

Sarah and Paul’s wedding at The Station House Hotel was a perfect blend of country charm and timeless elegance in the heart of County Meath. The day unfolded with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, starting with a relaxed morning and leading into a celebration full of laughter and genuine connection.

A highlight of the day was having their dog join the party, adding an extra layer of personality and fun to the proceedings. I captured the day naturally as it breathed, focusing on those unscripted interactions that make a wedding feel like home. For their portraits, we explored the hotel’s unique forest railway setting and lush gardens, keeping things movement-focused and easy. I provided just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable and looked their best, avoiding anything stiff or staged. It was a day defined by great company, a beautiful setting, and the honest joy of two people (and their pup) celebrating with their favorite crowd.

The Details

The Couple: Sarah & Paul (and their dog)

The Venue: The Station House Hotel, Co. Meath

The Setting: Historic railway charm and leafy gardens

The Vibe: Relaxed, elegant, and full of heart

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Sharon & Ronan | Cabra Castle

Sharon and Ronan’s wedding at Cabra Castle was the perfect balance of grandeur and intimacy. The castle’s historic charm and gold-leafed interiors provided a massive backdrop for a day that, at its heart, felt incredibly personal and relaxed.

I captured the day as it happened, using a modern documentary style to focus on the elegance, joy, and raw emotion of the celebration. From the quiet moments during the prep to the high-energy atmosphere of the castle halls, the goal was to keep everything natural. For their portraits, we took a wander through the castle’s vast grounds and ornate corridors. I kept things movement-based and easy, providing just enough direction to keep them comfortable without ever resorting to stiff, traditional poses. It was a timeless County Cavan celebration defined by genuine connection and a stunning historic setting.

The Castle Story

The Couple: Sharon & Ronan

The Venue: Cabra Castle, Co. Cavan

The Setting: Historic grandeur and rolling estate views

The Vibe: Elegant, timeless, and full of life

The Style: Modern, natural storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Kaitlin & Michael | Tullyglass House Hotel

The beautiful wedding of Kaitlin and Michael was a perfect blend of historic charm and city sophistication. Starting at the Tullyglass House Hotel in Ballymena, the day carried an atmosphere of relaxed elegance, full of genuine warmth and high energy from start to finish.

A highlight of the day was the stop at the historic Cathedral Quarter in Belfast City Centre. We leaned into the vibrant city energy, making time for a classic stop-off to share a pint of Guinness. Those moments in the heart of the city, surrounded by cobbled streets and the buzz of the pub, provided the perfect setting for photos that were as authentic as they were stylish.

I captured their story through a documentary lens, focusing on the honest, unscripted moments that unfolded naturally. My approach was all about keeping things relaxed and unobtrusive, giving just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable while allowing their real connection and the iconic Belfast backdrop to lead the way.

The Details

The Couple: Kaitlin & Michael

The Venue: Tullyglass House Hotel, Ballymena

The Portrait Location: Cathedral Quarter, Belfast (and a pint of the black stuff)

The Vibe: Modern, authentic, and sophisticated

The Style: Relaxed documentary and city-chic storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Niamh & Sean | Four Seasons Carlingford

Niamh and Sean’s wedding at the Four Seasons Hotel was a high-energy celebration set in the heart of the picturesque village of Carlingford. With the Lough on one side and the mountains on the other, the day was filled with that classic Co. Louth charm and a crowd that was ready to celebrate from the moment the ceremony ended.

A standout highlight of the day was heading into Carlingford town for some portraits with a twist. We ducked into a local pub where the couple got behind the bar, pulling their own pints to the cheers of the locals and their wedding party. It was the perfect way to break up the day, full of laughter and authentic character providing photos that were a far cry from the typical stiff wedding portraits. I captured these moments in a relaxed, documentary style, letting the fun of the town and their own natural chemistry lead the way. It was a day defined by great craic, a stunning setting, and a perfectly poured pint.

The Details

The Couple: Niamh & Sean

The Venue: Four Seasons Hotel, Carlingford

The Pitstop: Pulling pints in Carlingford Town

The Vibe: High-energy, fun, and authentically Irish

The Style: Relaxed documentary and candid storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.

Karyn & Ryan | The Loft (The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat)

Karyn and Ryan’s wedding at The Loft at The Rabbit Hotel was a masterclass in modern, urban-chic style. Known for its eclectic décor and laid-back luxury, the venue provided a high-energy, stylish backdrop that perfectly matched their vibe. From the stunning outdoor ceremony space to the warm, industrial-luxe interior of the reception room, the day was effortless and full of character.

I documented the celebration in a natural, documentary style, focusing on the laughter and the unfiltered interactions that made the day so unique. For their portraits, we made the most of the venue’s quirky corners and lush surroundings, keeping the session movement-based and easy. I provided just enough direction to ensure they felt comfortable, resulting in photos that felt authentic and stylish without ever being forced. It was a day defined by great music, a brilliant crowd, and a setting that feels like a hidden gem in Co. Antrim.

The Details

The Couple: Karyn & Ryan

The Venue: The Loft at The Rabbit Hotel, Templepatrick

The Setting: Industrial-chic luxury and bohemian vibes

The Vibe: Trendy, high-energy, and effortlessly cool

The Style: Modern documentary and candid storytelling

Modern, natural wedding photography across Northern Ireland & Ireland by Andrew McKenna.