The Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland are known for their rugged landscapes, sweeping valleys, and crystal clear lakes. From the dramatic peaks of Slieve Donard and Slieve Bearnagh to the enchanting Silent Valley Reservoir, these mountains provide diverse photo opportunities in every season.

The Mourne Mountains offer endless opportunities for exploration, from the iconic Slieve Donard, the highest peak, to the rugged trails of the Brandy Pad. The approach to photographing this region is to emphasise the interplay of weather and terrain.

The Mourne Mountains

Photographs include several notable peaks, including:
Slieve Donard – The highest peak in Northern Ireland (850m/2,789ft).
Slieve Commedagh – The second-highest peak (767m/2,516ft).
Slieve Binnian – Known for its rocky tors (747m/2,451ft).
Slieve Bearnagh – Recognisable by its dramatic rocky summits (739m/2,425ft).
Slieve Lamagan – A steep and rugged peak (704m/2,310ft).
Slieve Doan – A smaller, central peak with panoramic views (593m/1,946ft). See the Slieve Doan Post

Mourne Mountain Photography

Capturing moody skies, soft sunlight breaking through clouds, and the texture of the rocky outcrops offers a sense of drama. Early morning and late evening light often feature in these images, as the golden hours highlight the natural contours and bring a sense of serenity to the scenes.

The follow gallery includes panoramic images, captured with the Fujifilm sweep panorama feature. Click an image to view larger.

Shooting in this environment isn’t easy. The light can shift in an instant, and the weather can be unpredictable, but that’s part of the challenge and thrill. This collection is a reflection of my journey through these mountains, an ongoing love letter to the land, and a visual exploration of the relationship between light, land, and time. It’s a series of images that feels incredibly personal, yet universally relatable.

The aim of this photography project is to highlight the iconic features like the Mourne Wall and Silent Valley Reservoir. To capture the natural beauty of the Mourne Mountains. Through 35mm compositions, these photos showcase the interplay of light, weather, and terrain, from moody skies to soft, golden hues.

The images resonate with a deep appreciation for the Mournes as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, I hope they inspire hill walkers and photographers alike to explore this enchanting and timeless landscape.

The majority of the photographs are captured at 35mm. See Long Exposure locations in Northern Ireland. There are additional Mourne Mountain photographs available on Instagram.

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