Why a Photoshoot at the Cliffs of Moher No Longer Works – Avoid the Disappointment
Thinking of a photoshoot at the Cliffs of Moher? Think again! Recent changes and safety restrictions have made it impossible to capture the iconic shots. Discover better alternatives in Ireland.
Once a dream photoshoot location, the Cliffs of Moher are no longer a viable option for any type of photoshoot. With pathway closures, overcrowding, and safety concerns, capturing those iconic shots is now impossible. Here’s why you should reconsider and where you can go instead.
Why a Photoshoot at the Cliffs of Moher is No Longer Worth It
For years, the Cliffs of Moher in the west of Ireland were an iconic backdrop for engagement photos, elopements, and breathtaking landscape shots. However, if you’re dreaming of capturing those dramatic cliffside images today, you’re in for a major disappointment.
Due to increasing safety concerns and some recent fatal accidents, authorities have restricted access to the very spots that made those stunning photographs possible. As a result, photographers – including myself – have stopped offering proposal & engagement shoots there entirely.
If you’re considering a photoshoot at the Cliffs of Moher, here’s why you should rethink your plans and explore alternative locations instead.
1. No Access to the Best Photography Spots
The biggest issue? You simply can’t get to the best viewpoints anymore.
The scenic pathways that once provided breathtaking angles of the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean have been closed. Local authorities have taken measures to keep tourists and photographers away from the dangerous cliff edges, meaning the iconic shots you see online are no longer possible.
What Can You Access?
The only accessible area now is the visitor center, which is far from ideal for a professional photoshoot. A stone wall separates visitors from the cliff edge, blocking the wide, open views that made the location so spectacular.
If you were hoping for those classic, unobstructed images of the cliffs meeting the ocean, you’ll be sorely disappointed.
Cliff Walk
I receive a lot enquiries from people asking can we not just ignore the visitor centre and take photos on the newly open stretches of the cliff walk. Simple answer is no – see below as you will see why. No views, no working angles even when it’s empty of people. These were captured in winter when there was nobody about. In summer, the pathway is thronged with people trying to squeeze by each other.
This is the new cliff walk pathway at the Cliffs of Moher
Hags Head. There is a location several kms south of the visitors centre called Hags Head which is accessible only if you have your own car.
However, Hags Head is now also under restrictions and is currently only partially accessible. It is still ok for ceremonies and is popular for these.
For just photos however, it is ok for a few shots but that’s really it as it’s very limited photographically and not worth it to just go all the way there for just a few photos.
It used to be a great location but the spots within Hags Head that you need to access to get the WOW shots have now also been blocked off. It is highly unlikely that these areas will be a viable option in the future.
2. Overcrowding Makes Photography a Nightmare
At the visitors center, even if you manage to find a small, (wall-blocked) spot for your shoot, you’ll be battling hordes of tourists—especially during the peak summer months.
Expect:
• Long wait times – Accessing the car park alone can take up to an hour or more during the summer.
• Huge crowds – You won’t have the space or privacy for intimate engagement shots.
• Background distractions – Forget about clean, scenic backdrops—your photos will be filled with strangers.
For a professional photoshoot, an overcrowded and chaotic location simply won’t work.
3. The Visitor Center is Not Worth the Hassle
At this point, the Cliffs of Moher photoshoot experience has been reduced to standing in a packed tourist area, trying to snap pictures over a wall while avoiding dozens of selfie sticks.
The reality? It’s not the romantic or dramatic scene you’ve envisioned. If you’re going to invest time and money in a professional photographer, this location isn’t worth it.
4. Better Alternatives Exist Across Ireland
The good news? Ireland is filled with equally stunning (and even better!) cliffs where you can still get breathtaking engagement or elopement photos—without the restrictions and crowds.
Top Alternatives to the Cliffs of Moher:
Consider the Stunning Northern Ireland Coastline for Your Photoshoot
If you’re looking for a breathtaking alternative to the Cliffs of Moher, the Northern Ireland coastline offers some of the most dramatic and cinematic landscapes in the country. From the Giant’s Causeway with its unique hexagonal basalt columns to the cliffside views of Dunluce Castle, this region is full of incredible photo opportunities. The Causeway Coastal Route is packed with rugged sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and panoramic ocean views, making it ideal for engagement or elopement shoots. Plus, locations like Ballintoy Harbour—famously featured in Game of Thrones—offer a mystical and romantic backdrop without the overwhelming crowds. If you want raw, wild beauty with plenty of variety, Northern Ireland’s coastline is an exceptional choice for your photoshoot.
Wicklow & Dublin Mountains – A Hidden Gem Close to the Capital
Most tourists especially US and Canadian visitors to Ireland arrive through Dublin and do not travel to Northern Ireland. If you’re looking for a location that combines rugged beauty, dramatic landscapes, and easy access from Dublin, then the Wicklow and Dublin Mountains are an excellent alternative. The Lough Tay (Guinness Lake) area, in particular, is breathtaking, with sweeping views over the lake and rolling green hills. The Sally Gap and Glendalough offer stunning mountainous backdrops, peaceful lakes, and mystical forests—ideal for a fairytale-like engagement shoot. Plus, these locations are far less crowded than the Cliffs of Moher, making them perfect for an intimate photoshoot with plenty of space to move around and capture truly magical moments.
If you want incredible engagement or wedding photos in Ireland, these locations will give you the magical backdrop you’re looking for—without the limitations of the Cliffs of Moher.
Final Thoughts – Time to Move On
The Cliffs of Moher used to be a dream location for engagement shoots, but those days are over. With restricted access, massive crowds during the tourist season, and obstructed views, it’s simply no longer worth considering.
Instead of forcing a photoshoot in a spot that no longer works, choose one of Ireland’s other breathtaking cliffside or mountainous locations. You’ll get the dramatic scenery you want—without the disappointment.
If you’re looking for a stunning engagement or elopement photoshoot location in Ireland, explore alternative destinations. You’ll thank yourself later!
