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9th April 2025
12:04pm BST
A child's Communion Day is a big deal for many families, but the financial pressure parents are facing can taint the celebrations.
Traditions have changed throughout the years, but there is one way families continue to mark the day.
Trends may change with time, but taking photos of your child's First Holy Communion has remained a top priority for parents.
First Holy Communion remains a rite of passage for thousands of Irish children each year, with their proud parents on hand to witness – and capture – the moment.
New research by CEWE has found that taking photos is still a hugely important part of the Holy Communion in Ireland, with printed photos the format of choice for most parents.
From those surveyed, over half of schools (52%) do not organise a professional photographer for Holy Communion, so parents and family capture photos of their child’s big day.
The CEWE survey found that 64% of parents consider photography to be an important part of the day compared to just 5% who say taking photos is not important.
60% of respondents still choose to print their photos, either to store in an album or frame and display at home, while a further 23% say they would like to create a dedicated photo book for their Communion memories.
Just 16% keep their photos on a phone or computer, highlighting the enduring value of the printed souvenir.
A huge 81% of CEWE survey respondents say they are under pressure to spend money on creating the perfect day, while almost three-quarters of parents say that kids today receive way more money by way of gifts than they did.
Buying a special outfit has always been part of the Communion tradition, with 57% of parents saying it is the most important detail in photography.
“Families are under pressure to create the perfect Holy Communion for their kids but we always remind parents that in years to come, what they’ll really treasure are the memories of their big day,” said CEWE’s Steve Manfield.
As the Communion season approaches, CEWE is encouraging families to move beyond digital storage and create something truly special.
