Niamh Barry is a queer Irish photographer and visual storyteller whose work focuses on capturing moments that typically go unseen. Her practice attempts to magnify queer Irish identities through portraiture and documentary photography, conveying intimate moments and emotions in a country marked by the rigid sexual mores of Catholicism. Barry’s practice has expanded from intimate portraits of Dublin’s queer community to a broader investigation of fringe stories across Ireland and internationally. 

Working across film and digital, Barry’s love for photography began with capturing portraits of queer life and love. Her breakthrough series Queer Hearts of Dublin (2020) and No Queer Apologies (2021) originated from her desire to strengthen her connection with the LGBTQ+ community amidst a time of disconnection and social isolation. 

The success of her self-funded solo projects led Barry to music and concert photography, with a particular focus on capturing queer and FLINTA artists. Barry has shot acts such as Boygenius, Chappell Roan and Japanese Breakfast, while also regularly works with local Irish dancers, artists and performers, capturing movement, energy and spirit in her signature soft, intuitive style.

Her street photography, once a way to connect with the local LGBTQ+ scene, now documents queer presence and cultural undercurrents in cities across Europe and beyond. Barry’s approach remains grounded in trust, tenderness, and a commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices. 

Barry’s work has been featured in the RHA National Exhibition (2023), Taylor Weissing Portrait Prize (2024) and BJP’s Portraits Of Humanity (2024). She was nominated to represent Ireland in FUTURES (2023) and was a recipient of The Arts Council Agility Award in 2023, 2022 and 2021. She is an alumnus of Trinity College Dublin and is based in Dublin, Ireland.

2022-2023

Now & Forever, Interpersonally Queer

All My Friends, Dublin Ireland

2022

No Queer Apologies 

Block T and Hen's Teeth Gallery, Dublin Ireland

2021

Queer Hearts of Dublin - In Aid of MASI

Hen's Teeth Gallery, Dublin Ireland

2024 & 2025

Photo Network's Diversity & Inclusion Award & Residency 24/25'

Arts Council's Agility Award 2024

Shortlisted for Taylor Weissing Portrait Prize 24'

Portrait of Humanity 24'

2023

FUTURES 2023 - Nominated to represent Ireland 

Shortlisted for Belfast Photo Exhibition 23'

"Highly Commended" award for"Now & Forever, Interpersonally Queer" from the Belfast Photo Festival Organisation 

Arts Council's Agility Award 2023

2022

Arts Council's Agility Award 2022