Spike Island an Island fortress has a rich and varied history. It started life as a Military Base protecting the ships of the Royal Navy for over 100 years and then used by the Naval Service for many years. It was also used in many guises as a prison, from a holding prison for prisoners being sent to the penal colonies and al prison during the war of independence to finally as a detention facility for convicted joy riders.

As a venue for a photo shoot it offers a wide range of subject material. You have fantastic views of Cobh and the outer harbour. The fort itself is an interesting subject with its high walls, bastions and artillery positions. Then you have the old cells coupled with the modern detention centre. There is the contemporary architecture married with the old drill Hall which makes an interesting subject along with the clock tower building which houses a very interesting history of the fort, a history of the navy and an impressive collection of Irish militaria Then there is the Gun Hall which houses an impressive array of varied artillery with lots of brass parts ideal for a bit of macro photography. Finally, outside the fort there is the dereliction of the old accommodation quarters and the village area of the island.

ECCG enjoyed a great day on the island and the only issue is how quickly our time passed on the day. It is definitely one I would recommend (a tripod recommended as there are lot of low light opportunities) and it is one I will be revisiting

See a full gallery of images from the shoot here. Enjoy!

 – Andrew Foley