Last Updated on 11/06/2026 by Armands Sprogis
Edinburgh Vacation Photographer for Families & Couples
Visiting Edinburgh with your family, partner or friends? A vacation photoshoot is one of the best ways to remember your trip and return home with more than just phone snapshots. Whether you’re looking for a family photoshoot in Edinburgh or romantic couple portraits, I can help you create beautiful photographs while exploring the city and beyond.
Edinburgh is a magical place to visit and there are so many beautiful locations around the city. It’s a perfect backdrop to stylish portraits, whatever the occasion!
Why Hire a Local Edinburgh Photographer?
As a local Edinburgh photographer, I can help you choose the best locations for your photoshoot, avoid the busiest tourist spots where possible and create a route that fits your plans.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break, family holiday or special occasion, my goal is simple – to create natural photographs that capture your time in Scotland.
Every Vacation Photoshoot Is Different
No two families, couples or trips are exactly the same, which is why every vacation photoshoot is tailored to you.
Some visitors want iconic Edinburgh landmarks such as the Royal Mile and Calton Hill, while others prefer quieter locations, castles or Scotland’s beautiful countryside.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, exploring Edinburgh with your children or simply want professional photographs from your holiday, together we can create the session that suits your plans and interests.
Before your photoshoot, we’ll discuss locations, timing and the style of photographs you’d like to create.
“ My family and I vacationed in Scotland (we are from the US) and we booked Armands to do our family photos. I can’t say enough good things about our experience with him.From the moment we met he was very warm and welcoming. He took us all over Edinburgh and showed us sights we wouldn’t have otherwise known to see all throughout our session. He was such a joy. His humor made us relax and he was able to achieve some very genuine smiles out of my teenagers (which is difficult to do). We had a little bit of rain, but we were prepared with proper rain gear and hats. It’s Scotland you have to expect some rain.He was extremely professional and had our photos done before we even made it home. We absolutely LOVE them. We have amazing photos that showcase our wonderful visit to Scotland. I highly recommend him if you are traveling to Scotland or are from there. You will not be disappointed.”
Family Vacation Photography in Edinburgh – Wan Family
The Wan family visited Edinburgh during their trip to Scotland and wanted professional photographs that captured both their family and the beautiful city they were exploring.
We planned a relaxed photoshoot around some of Edinburgh’s most iconic locations, creating a collection of natural photographs that documented their visit and the memories they made together.
The little one was two, and we had to make a decision on where we could go and how long he would last. So our plan was to start with Calton Hill as it has amazing views all the way around. Once we finished with that, we headed out to Dalhousie Castle. A few years ago, I photographed their wedding there, and we wanted to revisit the venue. Lunch over there was amazing. Afternoon cakes were yammmm.
Once back in Edinburgh, we strolled around the old town, and I took them to various places for photos. The day was finished off with a few images back in the hotel. Beautiful natural portraits of a family day out.
Planning your own trip to Edinburgh? If you’d like to capture your visit with a relaxed family or couples photoshoot, feel free to get in touch and let’s discuss the best locations for your session.
How Your Edinburgh Vacation Photoshoot Works
If you’re wondering what’s involved in a vacation photography shoot, here’s the short answer:
Book your photography experience
Best Locations for Vacation Photography in Edinburgh
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a local Edinburgh vacation photographer is having access to beautiful locations that suit your style. Whether you are looking for iconic city views, historic architecture, castles or stunning natural scenery, Edinburgh has plenty to offer.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill is probably the most iconic location for vacation photography in Edinburgh. It offers beautiful city views, impressive architecture and several famous landmarks, including the Nelson Monument and Dugald Stewart Monument.
On the eastern side of Calton Hill, you’ll also find quieter green spaces with Arthur’s Seat providing a dramatic backdrop. This location works particularly well for family vacation photography, couples photoshoots and anyone wanting classic Edinburgh photographs.
During summer, I usually recommend scheduling your photoshoot either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. While Calton Hill can become busy, there are plenty of quieter corners where we can create beautiful portraits without crowds in the background.
Please note: Calton Hill has recently introduced a professional photography permit fee of approximately £90 for commercial photoshoots. Their own website does not mention the cost of the fee, but I have been approached a couple of times.
Royal Mile and Edinburgh Old Town
If you want photographs that instantly say “Edinburgh”, the Royal Mile and Old Town are hard to beat.
This area includes some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Victoria Street, St Giles’ Cathedral and the historic Royal Mile itself. The combination of cobbled streets, historic buildings and hidden closes creates endless opportunities for unique portraits.
As this is one of Edinburgh’s busiest tourist areas, you may occasionally need to wait for passing visitors or traffic. Early morning sessions tend to offer the quietest experience.
Many clients choose to combine the Royal Mile with Princes Street Gardens and the Scott Monument for a varied Edinburgh family photoshoot that captures both the historic and green sides of the city.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is perfect if you would like a more natural Scottish backdrop without leaving Edinburgh.
Don’t worry – you don’t need to climb to the summit. There are several beautiful locations around the lower slopes that provide fantastic views and dramatic scenery for portraits.
For families, St Margaret’s Loch is a lovely stop where children can watch the birds and enjoy the surroundings. After the session, you can also visit the historic St Anthony’s Chapel ruins nearby.
Circus Lane and Dean Village
Circus Lane and Dean Village are among the most photographed locations in Edinburgh, and for good reason.
Circus Lane is famous for its charming cobbled street, colourful flowers and picturesque houses. Just a short walk away, Dean Village offers beautiful riverside scenery, historic architecture and a quieter atmosphere away from the city centre.
These locations work particularly well for relaxed family photos, couples portraits and visitors looking for a more peaceful side of Edinburgh.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
If you love nature, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh can be a wonderful choice.
The gardens provide beautiful greenery throughout the year and offer a peaceful environment for portraits. While the surroundings are less recognisably Edinburgh than locations such as Calton Hill or the Royal Mile, they are ideal if you prefer a natural setting.
Craigmillar Castle
If you would like castle photographs without the crowds often found at Edinburgh Castle, Craigmillar Castle is an excellent alternative.
The castle has appeared in productions such as Outlander and Outlaw King and offers dramatic stone architecture, rooftop views and beautiful grounds surrounding the ruins.
It is one of my favourite locations for visitors looking for a more authentic Scottish castle experience during their vacation photoshoot.
Scotland Vacation Photography Beyond Edinburgh
Edinburgh is wonderful, but Scotland has so much more to offer.
If you are planning to explore beyond the city, I can travel with you and create photographs throughout Scotland, from beautiful beaches and historic castles to the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands.
Gullane Beach and East Lothian Coast
Just 40 minutes from Edinburgh, Gullane Beach and the surrounding East Lothian coastline provide stunning scenery and a completely different atmosphere from the city.
Wide sandy beaches, dunes and open coastal views make this a fantastic option for families and couples who want a more natural setting.
Dalhousie Castle
For visitors looking for a true Scottish castle experience, Dalhousie Castle is a fantastic option.
The castle grounds provide beautiful photo opportunities and visitors can also enjoy activities such as falconry. Some clients even choose to stay at the castle and arrange their photoshoot there.
Scottish Highlands and Glen Coe
If Scotland’s dramatic landscapes are what attracted you here, we can travel further north and create photographs in some of the country’s most spectacular locations.
Glen Coe, mountain viewpoints, lochs and Highland scenery provide unforgettable backdrops and allow you to document your Scottish adventure in a truly unique way.
A Few Things to Note
I am happy to travel throughout Scotland for destination and vacation photography sessions. Additional travel costs may apply for locations outside Edinburgh, and overnight accommodation may be required for longer journeys.
If you have a particular location in mind, simply get in touch and we can discuss the best options for your visit.
Common Questions About Hiring a Vacation Photographer
Brauck Family Vacation Photoshoot and Behind the Scenes Video
These guys travelled to me from Germany. Their main goal was to get all kids together and make beautiful family portraits while on vacation in Edinburgh. After the session, they wanted to visit my studio and see my albums. Now they have a beautiful leather-bound album. We took portraits on Calton Hill and went to Arthurs seat too.
Why Book a Local Edinburgh Photographer Instead of Using a Travel Agency?
Booking directly with a local Edinburgh photographer allows you to communicate with the person who will actually be photographing your session. We can discuss locations, timings and the style of photographs you would like before you arrive in Scotland. Unlike larger travel platforms, your photoshoot can be tailored specifically to your family, interests and travel plans.
