Togs & Tales
Laura McIlveen

Laura McIlveen
Landscape Photographer
What was your path to becoming a Landscape Photographer & What was your first camera?
The idea of getting into photography really came about through me exploring the North Coast. I’ve always loved going on big walks and exploring the local area; The Giant’s Causeway, Ballintoy Harbour, Portstewart Strand to name a few. I used to do these big walks in some of the best beauty spots around the Causeway Coast, without a camera. I just enjoyed viewing and being in the landscape. That then turned into a want to capture the beauty of the local landscape and share it with others. My first camera was a Canon EOS M. I was so pleased with it! It was a great wee starter camera, I have so much to thank that camera for. That’s where the journey started.

What was your favourite Landscape Adventure Story since becoming a Photographer?
What was your worst in-the-field experience as a landscape Photographer?
Sunrise or Sunset & Why?


Where is your favourite Location in Ireland to Photograph & Why?
What is your favourite photograph, that you’ve taken to date, & Why?
I get asked this quite a lot. My customers often ask me which print is my favourite but I just can’t choose! I always find myself starting with choosing one print and then the list starts. For me, every single photograph I’ve taken has a story. They all make up my personal journey and I love them all for that.

What equipment / Setup are you currently using?
- Canon 6D mii
- Nisi Filters
- Vanguard Alta Pro2+
Top Tip for anyone starting out?
Best Advise you’ve personally been given?


Who is your biggest inspiration as a Landscape Photographer
I really love Ansel Adams work. His work really inspires me. The rawness of his black and white landscapes, the way he captures light and atmosphere – I love it all. I studied his work in college and I just keep going back to it. The composition is first class, it’s proper composition goals. It’s just such beautiful imagery.
I do feel the need to talk about a local photographer here too, because really, when I was first starting out, it was the local photographers who were inspiring me most to pick up a camera. It was the people photographing the landscapes that I recognised and loved that were inspiring me. I’m going to give a shout out to Alistair Hamill here. If you haven’t seen Alistair’s work, go view it!
Who is your favourite Irish photographer at the moment?
I’m really enjoying following Sean O’Riordan’s work. He’s got a fantastic style, his work is really beautiful. I always enjoy seeing his new captures and his take on a landscape.
I’ve definitely got to mention Ryan Simpson here too, he’s from around my neck of the woods, I love his work too. Ryan’s photography just makes me want to go visit the Mournes! Such beautiful landscape work, great composition, beautiful light.