My Favourite Outdoor Photography Locations in Dublin
My Favourite Spots and Dublin Parks for Family Photos. Tips for You to Choose the Right Location.
1) The Parks – All of Them!
We are incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of beautiful parks along the east coast. St. Anne’s Park in Raheny/Clontarf and Marlay Park in Rathfarnham are both filled with lush green spaces and charming follies that create picturesque settings. However, my absolute favourite has to be St. Enda’s Park in Rathfarnham. St. Enda’s features trees, serene streams, and cute little bridges. The grounds of Pearse College, with its walled gardens and fountain, add to the magic. It's also less crowded, making it a perfect location for toddlers to run free. I fondly remember my children rolling down the hills when they were toddlers.
Next on my list is the Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks, home to wild deer, tree-lined avenues, and historic monuments. While there are many great spots within the park, I particularly love the area near the visitor centre. The kids enjoy exploring the little maze, and the magnificent trees provide wonderful settings for seated poses. I’ll never forget our first tentative outing with my daughter as a newborn – this park was where we took our very first walk.
Lastly, let's not overlook the underrated Tymon Park. This park offers beautiful walking paths, especially stunning in summer and autumn. I also love the shaded wooded areas near the Tallaght entrance, close to the ponds.
2) The City Centre
Now, hear me out. While taking a young family into the city might seem daunting, there are several locations that can work beautifully for photos, yielding great results.
Dublin Castle is a spot I’ve visited frequently, and it offers ample space for creative photoshoots. The castle’s grounds blend medieval, Georgian, and modern architecture with beautiful gardens. I am particularly taken by the cobblestones and the charming doorways that provide unique framing for photos.
For a quieter alternative, consider the Iveagh Gardens. This hidden gem features lovely fountains, a rose garden, and even a waterfall. While it can get busy during lunchtime with office workers seeking a break, it remains a serene oasis right in the heart of the city.
3) The Seaside
Golden hour by the sea is always a magical choice for photos. While Dublin may not have many traditional beaches, it boasts stunning scenic areas. Just be mindful of the weather before heading out. When conditions are right, we can capture breath-taking seascapes and dramatic skies as our backdrop.
Dun Laoghaire Harbour can be lively on weekends, but it still has quiet nooks perfect for some great shots. The bandstand offers a fun focal point, and the pier itself is a lovely backdrop. Another one to consider is the Howth Cliff Walk which presents stunning coastal views and is often less crowded, especially on quieter days.
4) The Mountains
While perhaps not ideal for tiny toddler legs, the Dublin mountains offer great trails and spots for slightly older families. One memorable day out was at Tibradden Wood, where the ziplines provide plenty of fun for older kids. The mountain trails at Three Rock are also fantastic and not too daunting (I once walked this with a seven-year-old!).
So, which location is your favourite? If you have a special place that holds meaning for you, drop me a message, and let’s start planning your perfect photoshoot!
With love, Aoife
