On Eagles' Wings
I don't get over to the west of Ireland as much these days as I used to. Back in those days, our dogs were a bit happier on long drives, but sadly as they've gotten older, little Ollie just hates the car.
Back in 2017 though, my wife, myself and the dogs would often travel and once located somewhere would happily strike off without too much planning and see where we would end up. This was one of those days as we found ourselves heading to Sligo, from Enniskillen. It was such a warm sunny day, I was almost unhappy as a photographer because blue skies can be boring. I find myself much happier when its overcast and there's some drama to capture.
The Eagle's Rock is located in Leitrim's Dartry Mountains and in fact it's over 1,000ft high and as such is Ireland's highest freestanding rock pillar.
It's easy as a photographer to get all geared up and pay so much attention to having all your equipment but in reality, any opportunity to do something life-giving is something we should seek after. When I took this image, I was really just enjoying the time I was having with my family. Seeking tranquility doesn't necessarily mean we have to be alone. Yes, its about disconnecting, maybe turning your phone on silent (or off altogether) and sitting in the moment. Its such a blessing to have a wife who loves to walk and so often on my travels, as I am sitting and just drinking in the view, deciding what to shoot, she is close-by walking the dogs. We both are in our element and compliment each other so well.
So don't always feel that slowing down and drinking in those moments needs to be done on a solo quest. For me, it is about preparing my heart for what I am doing before hand. Yes, get all your camera gear ready, batteries charged and that tripod packed, and most definitely have some idea about where you are headed. But don't let it consume you.
I always do some reconnaissance before taking a trip and I watch the map as I go, but some of the most stunning and memorable vistas I have captured have been those I have stumbled upon accidentally. This was one of them. Absolutely keep your eyes on the road, but as you do, remember that there is so much beauty around you.
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