2024: A Year of Storms, Skipping Stones, and Stunning Landscapes

If I had to sum up 2024 in one word, it would be "growth." This year has been packed with lessons, adventures, collaborations, and, yes, a few close calls (I nearly donated my camera to the Atlantic during a storm). It’s been a whirlwind, and I couldn’t be more thankful to all of you for being part of this journey. Let’s dive into the highlights and, along the way, sprinkle in some tips that might help you on your photography path.

Lessons Learned: Bad Weather? Great Photos!

This year has reaffirmed my philosophy: there is no such thing as bad conditions in landscape photography. Whether I was battling gale-force winds on the cliffs of Donegal or trudging through rainy mornings, every "bad" day turned into an opportunity to capture something unique.

Don’t let the weather dictate your creativity. Stormy skies can add drama, and fog can create an ethereal mood. Instead of waiting for perfect conditions, embrace what’s in front of you—you’ll often surprise yourself.

Starting Group Workshops:

This year marked my first international group workshop, and it was an experience I’ll never forget. Partnering with Sarah Lyndsay, we led a group of eager photographers through Ireland’s iconic locations, from the moody Crohy Arch to the enchanting Dark Hedges. Watching participants grow their skills and create stunning images was beyond rewarding—even if keeping everyone together sometimes felt like herding enthusiastic teenagers with tripods.

If you’re thinking about joining a workshop, do it! Workshops aren’t just about learning from the instructor; they’re about connecting with other photographers, sharing ideas, and finding inspiration in a group setting.

Ireland: A Photographer’s Paradise

This year has reinforced what I’ve always known: Ireland is a world-class destination for landscape photography. From Donegal's rugged coastline to Connemara's stunning beauty, there’s something magical about this island. One of my favourite moments was capturing the first light at The Dark Hedges before the crowds arrived. It’s experiences like these that make the early alarms and chilly mornings worth it.

Research your locations ahead of time and scout them before you shoot. Knowing where the light falls and the best compositions can make all the difference, especially in popular spots where timing is everything.

Collaborations: Stones, Skits, and Smiles

2024 was the year of collaborations, and I’m grateful to have worked with some incredible photographers along the way at many incredible spots. Shooting with Thomas Heaton was a particular highlight. Between creating beautiful images, we also managed to squeeze in a skipping stone contest—I’m proud to report I didn’t embarrass myself (too much). I even got to meet up finally with Neil Arthurs.

I had the pleasure of shooting with Bernard many times, whose creativity always inspires me. His skills have exploded during this year and I am proud to be working with him in 2025.  These collaborations reminded me of the value of sharing ideas and learning from others.

Don’t be afraid to collaborate with other photographers. Whether it’s a casual outing or a planned shoot, you’ll gain fresh perspectives and maybe even a few laughs along the way.

Thank You to My Supporters: You Make It Possible

Now, let’s get serious for a moment. None of this would be possible without you—yes, you are reading this article. Whether you’ve watched my YouTube videos, joined a workshop, or simply liked a post, your support means the world to me. It’s because of you that I get to do what I love and share it with the world.

Whatever your passion is, share it. Whether through photos, videos, or stories, your unique perspective can inspire others. And don’t forget to thank those who support you along the way.

Writing and Storytelling:

This year, I delved deeper into writing and creating articles about the biggest challenges in landscape photography. Writing has given me a new way to reflect on my experiences and connect with you. It’s also reminded me of the power of storytelling in photography—every image has a story, and sharing it adds depth to your work.

Start a journal or blog about your photography experiences. Reflecting on your shoots can help you grow as a photographer and connect with others who share your passion.

YouTube Growth: 

I hit 10,000k subscribers this year and am closing in on 1,000,000 views. It’s a small but meaningful milestone in my journey, and I couldn’t have done it without you.

I redesigned my popular Location Guidebooks from the ground up, and I love seeing you guys bag some bangers from using them! Thank you very much for your support! In the accompanying video, you have a chance to win the full suite. Be sure to give it a watch and try your luck.

Looking Ahead into 2025: 

2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year. I’m planning more workshops in Ireland and possibly beyond—stay tuned for details! I’m also exploring the idea of starting a Patreon to offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes footage, and raw files for you to edit.

I feel that it’s important to always be planning your next step. Whether it’s a new project, a workshop, or just experimenting with a different style, staying curious and forward-thinking will keep your photography fresh.

Final Thoughts: Just Go

To wrap up, I’ll leave you with a thought from my keynote presentation for the Photography Summit: "Just go." Don’t overthink the conditions, the location, or the gear. There’s always a shot waiting to be found, and even if you don’t find it, you’ll learn something valuable along the way.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to an even more exciting 2025—I can’t wait to see what we create together.

Below is a gallery of some of the images I captured, I’ve not published many of them before this either, and I’d love to continue the conversation in the comments below.