‘It’s been a real pleasure’ - Ardara photographer John McConnell calls it a day

Ardara photographer John McConnell has announced that he will soon be hanging up his camera.

John, a former Donegal GAA county board chairman and Ardara club chairman, will be winding down JMAC Photography - which covered an array of events from weddings to first holy communions, school photographs to football, alongside colleague Ciara Hennigan - in the coming weeks.

“This isn't an easy post to write as we announce that JMAC Photography will be winding down over the next six weeks and will be closing down after 17 years in the business,” he posted.

“It's just time to scale back a bit and spend a bit more time on the important things in life. What started off in 2005 as a hobby (and not knowing what a good photo was) I definitely couldn't foresee how the business would grow up to the present day.

“It's been a real pleasure covering all the different events - wedding, family occasions, school photos and watching the children go from their playgroup photos to first day at school, to first communion to confirmation to first year photos right through to their debs night and getting to know them all so well.

“To everyone who supported us over the years, we will be eternally grateful. A sincere thanks To all the local clergy, clubs, schools, playgroups, couples families and local papers etc etc for their loyalty and generosity over the years. It's been busy but very enjoyable.

“Thanks to [family] Karen, Courteney, Shaun and Cian for their patience and support when Dad was running all over the place to either photography or football. To Ciara Hennigan, who has been brilliant all through the years as my sidekick and was always a pleasure to work with. Ciara had a great way with her and was always extremely popular with all our customers.

“For those who still have order envelopes stuck in a drawer somewhere, or have studio vouchers, get in touch and we will sort them out. The same goes to anyone who wants to order photos from an old event that they never got around to sorting. Wedding couples who haven't got to picking their photos yet, no need to panic, but try and get it sorted ASAP please. Anyone else with queries, just email us on john@jmac.ie Thanks a million everyone. Take care, John.”