On My Bookshelf: Julian Baird’s Review of ‘HEADLANDS’

It is always a humbling experience to see your work through the eyes of a fellow photographer, especially one as discerning as Julian Baird. In a recent episode of his popular YouTube series, On My Bookshelf, Julian provided a deep dive into my latest book, HEADLANDS, and I was moved by his thoughtful analysis of the project.

A Return to West Cork

Julian noted that HEADLANDS feels like a “return to roots,” and he’s right. This project brought me back to the very first places I ever photographed in 1992. As the final part of the trilogy that includes Beara and Kingdom, this book represents a decade of wandering the edge of the land.

The “Unplanned” Philosophy

One aspect of the review that resonated with me was Julian’s focus on the “unplanned” nature of my shoots. He described the work as having a sense of “honesty and authenticity,” which is exactly what I strive for.

In landscape photography, there is often a temptation to over-plan or chase a specific “iconic” shot. However, as Julian pointed out, the most meaningful images often come from those quiet, vernacular details that you only find when you leave the tripod in the car and simply walk the coastline with an open mind.

Crafting the Monograph

We also share a passion for the physical object of the book. Julian highlighted the production choices—the 170g premium paper and the luxury debossed cover—that make HEADLANDS more than just a collection of photos, but a tactile experience.

He also touched on the beautiful foreword written by Scottish photographer Bruce Percy, which sets the tone for the book by discussing the profound, almost spiritual experience of being present in the landscape.

A Must-Have Recommendation

I am incredibly grateful for Julian’s recommendation of the book as a “must-have” for those who appreciate personal reflection over simple record-keeping. To be recognized as a “self-published success story” by a peer is the ultimate validation of the hard work that goes into every pallet of books that arrives at the gallery.

You can watch the full, detailed review by Julian Baird below:

Headlands by Norman McCloskey – On My Bookshelf (YouTube)

The ‘HEADLANDS’ monograph is available now via the online shop and in person at the gallery in Kenmare.

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