as a complete newcomer to Ireland I have no idea what the laws here say with regards to where one can and cannot photograph, both for just personal / hobby stuff as well as for professional work.
I have been known to whip out a reflector or some speedlights to take portraits in public spaces, would this be a problem, and what (other than private property) would require a permit etc?
I don’t believe that there are any specific laws (anyone else please feel free to correct me) re photography in public places. Street photography, for example has no specific laws here unlike say in France. That said, blocking access or a path with equipment might would probably be an issue.
If you are obviously staging photos with lighting equipment on private property then I’d suggest that it would be best to seek their permission first. Walking around with a camera in hand ie like a tourist will probably be fine.
That said many shopping centres etc, will almost certainly have an issue with photos being taken. Security might ask you to stop…