COAST — The Project, The Story, and the Launch
I’ve just released a new video marking an important milestone — the official start of my Kickstarter campaign for COAST, a printed photography book showcasing over a decade of my work photographing Ireland’s shoreline.
This video isn’t just an announcement. It’s a look inside the project, the process, and the reasons why COAST means so much to me. It also explains how you can help bring it to life.
[Watch the Video Here →
What the Video Covers
In the video, I talk about what COAST really is — not just a photo book, but a printed collection combining storytelling, education, and experience. It features more than 100 pages of imagery and writing from along Ireland’s wild coastline — cliffs, coves, piers, and islands.
Every image includes technical details such as conditions, camera settings, and my thought process while framing the shot. I designed it to appeal not only to photographers but also to people who love Ireland’s landscape and those who appreciate a story told through images.
You’ll also see what makes COAST unique. Each copy includes QR codes linking to behind-the-scenes videos and map pins marking the rough locations where key shots were made. It’s a book designed to be immersive — letting readers follow the journey from page to place.
Why I Made COAST
COAST has been years in the making. Only this year did it finally come together after months of refining, writing, and designing. The book is printed here in Ireland on 180gsm silk paper, produced in partnership with a local print house to maintain both quality and authenticity.
It represents the early mornings, the long drives, and the unpredictable conditions that come with photographing Ireland’s coastline. Every chapter connects to a part of the country that has shaped my work — from Donegal’s sea stacks to Kerry’s rugged peninsulas.
More than a collection of images, COAST is a printed record of those years spent working along the edge of Ireland.
Why Kickstarter
Producing a high-quality book independently is expensive, which is why I chose Kickstarter to fund COAST. The platform allows me to bring the project directly to the community that has supported my photography over the years.
Kickstarter’s all-or-nothing model means the book will only go to print if it reaches its goal — so every pledge genuinely matters.
In the video, I explain the different reward tiers available — from digital editions to signed books, fine art prints, coaster sets, and every backer includes your name printed in the acknowledgements section.
There’s also a Collector’s Edition one-day photography workshop experiences. plus everything else.
What the Book Means
COAST is personal. It tells the story of my ongoing connection to the Irish landscape — the places revisited time and again, waiting for the right light or tide. It’s about persistence, patience, and the pursuit of a single frame that captures a feeling.
The book reflects my approach to landscape photography: there are no bad conditions, only opportunities to see differently. It’s a reminder that the coast is constantly changing, shaped by light, tide, and weather — just as our own work evolves over time.
How You Can Support the Project
If you’d like to be part of COAST, the best way is to join the pre-launch mailing list. You’ll get early access to the campaign and early-bird pricing when it goes live.
Even if you can’t pledge directly, sharing the video or campaign link helps build visibility. Kickstarter thrives on momentum, and the more people who see it early, the greater chance it has of reaching the goal.
Join the Prelaunch List for Early-Bird Access → https://www.darrenjspoonley.com/coast-book
Final Thoughts
COAST represents years of work and thousands of kilometres along Ireland’s coast. It’s the story of photographing the Atlantic edge — through storms, sunrise light, and moments of calm.
If you’ve followed my work or share a love of the Irish landscape, I’d love for you to be part of this project and help bring COAST to print.
Slán go fóill,
Darren J Spoonley