I went to the magical country of Ireland last month to attend a workshop hosted by my good friend Doug Beasley. We mainly spent our time on the Islands off the west coast of Ireland, called Inishmore and Inishmein. Since the islanders continue to speak the Galic language and live the traditional rural life, they are considered to bethe most “authentic” Irish culture.

From a visual perspective, Ireland stunning. The contrast of light and dark and vibrant colors made for an amazing excursion. Since my return, I have been hounded by friends and family to post images. So I’m taking a break from editing my weddings tonight to post a few of my favorites. I just received my film images which I’ll post in a few weeks. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy…

I laid on the ground for 5 minutes waiting for a gesture to make this image complete. When I saw the horse turn it’s head and the wind pick up it’s main, I knew I had the shot.

This is my good friend and traveling buddy, Bill. He’s standing in the door or a rusted shipwreck on the coast of Inishmein.

An image from the ferry traveling from the islands to the mainland. The rainy grey sky was a common theme throughout the trip.

A testament of the rural lifestyle. An old woman feeds her chickens.

The pattern on the ground of the islands creates a visually stunning effect.

Ireland has the most amazing Guinness Beer! It tastes different than the Guinness I’ve tried in the states.

These are offerings on the interior or a holy well. The local Irish people come here to send prayers to loved ones who are sick or dying.

Old vacant homes on these islands are rarely torn down. A symbol of the migration of islanders to the Irish mainland.

I was struck by the fire red hair on this boy. I thought it contrasted nicely with the grey sky and water. The composition is simple and direct to bring more attention to the colors.

These were three of the youngest musicians in the town on Inishmore. Despite the islands small population and size, there are a plethora of tourists who these kids entertain as they pass by.

The stark contrast of green and white made me immediately stop the driver of our horse and cart to get this image. The white cows appear to be radiating light. I was happy with the spacing of the cows which added to a more evenly weighted composition in the final frame.

This image has not been enhanced or photoshopped. This horse on a hill was an optical illusion that created an entertaining composition.

I found this horse lonely and sad tied to the side of an old tractor. I loved the vivid colors of his main as it contrasted with the deep blue sky.