1. Fitzwilliam Square,
A very elegant Georgian backdrop, the uniform red-brick facades, sash-windows, and subtle ornamental details provide a clean classic backdrop that doesn’t distract from the subject in portrait photography. Ideal for family portraits or professional headshots with a refined city-look.
Best to set thetine for early morning or golden-hour before the square gets busy
2. Mount Pleasant Square
This is a quieter Georgian square on the border of Ranelagh / Rathmines, known for its elegant curved form and early-19th-century houses.
For lifestyle portraits: The gentle curve of the square gives you options for interesting compositions (leading lines, arcs) while remaining in a residential, relaxed setting. Great for family portraits where you want a city feel but somewhat less formal.
Tip: Bring a reflector or portable fill light for shaded sides; the houses may cast mid-tones that flatten the subject.
3.Portobello
Full of colour and character I often choose Portobello as a backdrop for family portraits.
There is a mural of swans that is a vibrant part of the Portobello square and its right by the canal, because it is right by the canal there are a lot of swans living there which makes an interactive attraction for the family photos especially when children are taking part. Surrounded by small red brick houses with colourful doors makes excellent locations for romantic couple photos too. It has a massive `dublin vibe and is one of my favorite location in the whole city of Dublin
4. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
“St Patrick’s Cathedral was built on the site that once housed a small 5th-century wooden temple. In 1191, it was replaced by a stone place of worship made by the Anglo-Normans. The building was reformed and enlarged during the 13th century.”
St Patrick Cathedral has unique grounds and is an amazing backdrop to a historical -800 years old -building itself.
5. South William Street
Street full of pubs,life, shoppers, character adjacent to st stephens green, parallel to grafton street,but quieter with more colourful vibe. Also full of little alleys, perfect brick walls to add character to portraits.
Very popular with destination family photography.
6. Dublin Castle and gardens
If you’re looking for a bit of history…Dating 1204 historic site, with strong presence, stone walls, courtyards and detail that give gravity and formality.
“The Castle was originally developed as a medieval fortress under the orders of King John of England. It had four corner towers linked by high curtain walls and was built around a large central enclosure.”
I have found it perfect for more formal family portraits, senior portraits or professional headshots because of history and elegance.
7 Popular wedding venue – Dublin City Hall
“With its elegant 18th century architecture, City Hall is one of the most popular wedding locations in Ireland. It offers couples a unique and historic location to celebrate their journey together.”
8 Trinity College Dublin (campus & architecture)
“ A blend of historical architecture and open spaces; archways half shaded, many corners on the campus provide formal and informal backdrops.
For lifestyle portraits: Great for young adults (graduation, professional portraits) but also for families who want a stately but still relaxed location.
The walls and architecture create a linear backdrop that romantic portraits can play against..
8. Grand Canal Dock / Docklands
It’s Dublin’s newer architecture zone — glass, steel, reflected water, urban vibes.
For lifestyle portraits: Ideal if your brand wants something modern, fresh, dynamic. Professionals, creatives, families who lean contemporary.
I use reflections in the water for interesting compositions; I also consider late afternoon light on the glass buildings for golden tones.
9. Temple Bar (Architectural & colourful facades)
Vibrant, historic part of the city – colourful street facades mixed with Georgian architecture and lively atmosphere.Full of tourists day and night. If you want fun, relaxed, and colourful — families with kids, couples, or playful professional portraits. The architecture here adds character rather than formality.
