Photographer’s Guide to Best Photography Locations in Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is a city that captures your heart at first glance – I guarantee it.

It happened to me, and I’m sure it will happen to you too. Known for its photogenic charm, Edinburgh is packed with stunning spots perfect for photographers. This guide highlights the best photography locations in Edinburgh so you don’t miss a single gem – let me guide you through the most beautiful places!

Most Beautiful and Instagrammable Edinburgh Locations: The Best Photography Spots

Love historic architecture, lush greenery, Harry Potter vibes, dramatic views, artisan coffee, castles, Highland cows, and whisky? Then Edinburgh is a must for your travel bucket list.

Since moving here 15 months ago as a Polish expat, I’ve discovered why Edinburgh feels like home. From its friendly, open-minded people to its endless sights and experiences, this city is truly one of a kind.

Now, let’s dive into the top places to visit and photograph in this breathtaking Scottish capital, where even the famously unpredictable weather adds a dramatic touch to your photos!

So grab your camera (or stand in front of mine!) and let’s dive into the most interesting places to visit and photograph in this remarkable city.

Edinburgh Castle – The Most Romantic Photoshoot Location in Scotland?

Edinburgh Castle is a true Scottish icon, majestically perched on a hill and dominating the city’s skyline. It’s not only the most visited tourist attraction in Scotland but also an active military base—a lesser-known fact that adds to its rich history.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to Edinburgh Castle is an absolute must. But beyond its historical significance, the castle serves as an enchanting backdrop for romantic photographs. After all, who wouldn’t want a stunning photo with this majestic fortress in the background?

Where to capture the best castle view – The Vennel Viewpoint

The most breathtaking view of Edinburgh Castle can be found at The Vennel Viewpoint, a charming staircase that connects the Grassmarket to Lauriston Place. It’s the perfect spot to capture a romantic and dramatic shot of the castle.

Personally, I prefer the view offered by the Vennel Steps to the views from Edinburgh Castle, to be totally honest…

The Vennel is a beautiful alleyway in Grassmarket area of the Scottish capital. It is situated across the road from the Grassmarket area, a very lively area full of pubs and shops. The steps will give you the best view Edinburgh can offer! Majestic, romantic and beautiful. A perfect place to sit down with ice cream bought from Mary’s Milk Bar at the very bottom of the steps.

Interesting fact: a vennel in Scots language means a passageway between the walls of two adjacent buildings which in effect create a little alley!

Interesting Facts about Edinburgh Castle

• Built on an extinct volcano: The castle sits atop Castle Rock, the remnant of an ancient volcanic eruption.
• Home to Scotland’s oldest building: St Margaret’s Chapel, located within the castle grounds, dates back to the 12th century.
• A dream wedding venue: Couples can tie the knot at St Margaret’s Chapel or other castle venues from October to May, with options for both intimate and larger ceremonies.
• An epic proposal spot: With its historic charm, Edinburgh Castle is also a favourite location for secret proposals, anniversary shoots, and engagement photoshoots.

Planning a photoshoot or a wedding at Edinburgh Castle

Organising a wedding or professional photoshoot at Edinburgh Castle may require a permit and associated fees. Check the official castle website for further details to make your dream photoshoot hassle-free.

How to get there

The Vennel is located in the heart of Edinburgh and offers an incredible view of the castle. It’s a short walk from the Grassmarket and can be accessed via a staircase leading to Lauriston Place.

For exact directions, view The Vennel Viewpoint on Google Maps.

Victoria Street – A colourful gem in Edinburgh’s Old Town

Nestled between the Grassmarket and Castlehill, Victoria Street is one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant and historic streets, famously inspiring J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. The street is lined with colourful buildings, quirky shops, and charming cafes, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the Scottish capital.

Built in the 1830s by architect Thomas Hamilton, the street was originally named Bow Street. It was later renamed to Victoria Street in honour of Queen Victoria’s reign. The street’s unique, curved shape and vibrant facades make it a perfect location for photoshoots, capturing both the historic charm and lively energy of Edinburgh.

I’m sure you won’t have trouble finding this famous street, but to make it easier here are directions to Victoria Street on Google Maps.

Victoria Terrace

Don’t forget to head up to Victoria Terrace for panoramic views over the Old Town, offering a stunning perspective of the city’s architecture and bustling streets. It’s another perfect spot to capture the essence of Edinburgh.

Holyrood Park with Arthur’s Seat and St Anthony’s Chapel

Holyrood Park and its highest point – Arthur’s Seat – are undoubtedly among the most iconic photography locations in Edinburgh – and for good reason. These breathtaking landscapes offer unparalleled views and are steeped in natural beauty, making them a favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re a photographer or a hiker – I’m sure you’ll love this spot.

Recently, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park gained renewed fame when they appeared in Netflix’s adaptation of One Day. This poignant series brought David Nicholls’ beloved novel to life, and the breathtaking views from Arthur’s Seat served as the backdrop for pivotal moments in the story. Fans of the series will instantly recognise the location, where the sweeping vistas perfectly complemented the emotional depth of the narrative. Visiting Arthur’s Seat is a chance to walk in the footsteps of the characters and relive those memorable scenes.

In this latest version of One Day, the stunning landscapes of Edinburgh, including Arthur’s Seat, remain a central backdrop to the evolving relationship between Emma (played by Ambika Mod) and Dexter (played by Leo Woodall). As in the original film, Arthur’s Seat provides a dramatic and poignant setting for some of the most emotionally charged moments in the story. The iconic climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, reflects the emotional highs and lows of Emma and Dexter’s connection.

Arthur’s Seat

The highest point in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat, is an ancient volcano rising 250 metres above sea level. It offers the best panoramic views of Edinburgh, perfect for capturing the city’s skyline in all its glory.

Whether it’s a clear morning or a glowing sunset, Arthur’s Seat never fails to deliver stunning, magical moments. If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, the very peak can be a perfect spot for a sunset marriage proposal.

For exact directions, view Arthur’s Seat on Google Maps.

St Anthony’s Chapel

However, there’s more to Holyrood Park than just Arthur’s Seat.

St Anthony’s Chapel, a hidden gem tucked away within the park, is an excellent spot for more intimate or historic-themed photoshoots. The chapel’s picturesque ruins, perched above the tranquil St Margaret’s Loch, create a romantic and atmospheric setting.

With the ruins framed by rugged cliffs and the distant hills, St Anthony’s Chapel is the perfect location for unique, nature-filled photos that capture both the natural beauty and history of Edinburgh.

For exact directions, view St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins on Google Maps.

Dunsapie Loch – peaceful, scenic oasis within Holyrood Park

Another stunning spot in Holyrood Park is Dunsapie Loch, a serene and often overlooked location that offers peaceful views of the surrounding hills and city. This small, tranquil loch sits just beneath Arthur’s Seat and is perfect for capturing reflections of the natural landscape, especially at dawn or dusk when the water is still. The surrounding greenery, combined with the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, makes Dunsapie Loch an excellent choice for nature-inspired photoshoots. It’s a quieter, more secluded spot, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and capture the essence of Edinburgh’s quiet beauty.

For exact directions, view St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins on Google Maps.

Stockbridge – the cutest area for photography in Edinburgh

Stockbridge, a charming suburban area of Edinburgh, feels like a cosy little town nestled within the city. It’s a perfect destination for photographers in Edinburgh, offering a variety of picturesque locations to capture. From quaint streets to vibrant local markets, Stockbridge provides plenty of opportunities for stunning photoshoots.

Once a small village, Stockbridge became part of Edinburgh in the 19th century. Today, it’s a peaceful area filled with cosy pubs, fantastic restaurants, unique shops selling local produce, and a collection of charity shops. If you’re a photographer in Edinburgh looking to capture authentic local life, Stockbridge is a must-visit.

Circus Lane

Parallel to St Stephen Street, you’ll find Circus Lane, one of the most photogenic streets in Edinburgh. This charming little lane is a photographer’s dream, with its cobbled streets, vibrant doors, and historic buildings creating a timeless, picturesque backdrop. The street is lined with lush plants and flower-filled window boxes, framed by colourful fall foliage in autumn and decorated by stunning wisteria flowers in the spring, it is incredibly Instagrammable year-round.

As a photographer in Edinburgh, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve brought clients to Circus Lane for engagement, portrait, anniversary, and even wedding photoshoots. Its quaint charm and vibrant character make it a perfect location for capturing those special moments in a beautiful, intimate setting. Whether you’re snapping portraits or looking for the ideal place to celebrate a special occasion, Circus Lane is one of the city’s most delightful spots to photograph.

For directions, view Circus Lane on Google Maps.

Historic Stockbridge Market Archway

The Stockbridge Market Archway, the original entrance to the old market, is a beautiful and historic feature that makes for an incredible backdrop in photoshoots.

Situated on St Stephen’s Place, this charming archway offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history, adding character and elegance to any photograph. It’s a perfect spot for capturing the blend of old-world charm and modern-day Edinburgh.

To find it, follow directions to Stockbridge Market Arch on Google Maps.

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh – best photography session spots in Edinburgh

It was founded in 1670 in Holyrood Park, then in 1820 it was moved to its current location in Inverleith. It’s situated one mile away from the city centre and includes a collection of almost 300,000 plants.

The green backdrop of the gardens and the beauty of the glasshouses is something absolutely incredible. It looks even more atmospheric during the rain.

I would suggest spending at least 2-3 hours at the Royal Botanic Garden to be able to relax, wander, take photos and admire the diversity of the plant collection. My personal favourite it the lily pond located in one of the glasshouses. The giant Himalayan water lilies can reach up to even three metres in diameter, they look really impressive.

What else will you be able to admire at the Botanics? A beautiful little waterfall, Chinese hillside with one of the biggest collection of Chinese plants outside China, Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden with a little labyrinth, rhododendrons and a rock garden.

If you’re planning a portrait, engagement, anniversary or a wedding photoshoot in Edinburgh, Royal Botanic Gardens are a location you should definitely consider. It’s romantic, full of greenery and the evening light there is somewhere you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

And don’t forget to visit the glasshouses at the Botanics! It’s the best spot for photography in the entire garden, so they’re not to be missed.

Dean Village

Dean Village is a must-see on your Edinburgh bucket list. A walkable distance from the city centre, the place looks like a fairy-tale little village. It used to be a home to water mills and remains of them still can be seen here.

Beautiful houses with little windows surround the peaceful oasis away from the city centre noises. If you walk from Stockbridge and follow the Water of Leith you’ll be able to see St Bernard’s Well.

Make sure you stop at the Dean Bridge to be able to appreciate a bird’s-eye view at Dean Village and take a photo in one of my favourite residential areas, how amazing is this house?

Edinburgh alpaca farm in Pentland Hills

Bob and Cath’s alpaca farm in Edinburgh is a perfect place for you to visit if you prefer the rustic side of Scotland and if you love animals. It is located at the foot of Pentland Hills where you’ll not only get a chance to say hi to alpacas, but also will be able to photograph some furry highland cows!

I would definitely recommend the alpaca farm in Edinburgh if you’re ever visiting, or looking for an idea on how to spend a lovely day outdoors, surrounded by alpacas who never fail to make anyone smile. Bob, who is an incredibly friendly and knowledgeable owner of the farm, is always keen to have a chat and share some interesting facts about the life of alpacas. Particulary for all animal lovers.

Also, be sure to book your visit in advance as I know the farm gets very busy, especially during summer.

Pentland Hills

Pentland Hills are located in the south of Edinburgh area and are an amazing photoshoot location not far from the city centre, and are an especially great choice for photos if you don’t have the chance to visit the Scottish highlands very often. The regional park encompasses a very large area and includes a few reservoirs, lakes and even one waterfall.

Pentlands offer plenty of room for exploration, walks and are an amazing hiking spot. Also, the hills offer some amazing views at the city. And they are the closest place to Edinburgh where you can meet some redhead Scottish friends – the highland cows.

One more amazing thing about this place is that it’s accessible by public transport, so if during your trip to Edinburgh you won’t have access to a car you can still get there without an issue.

To sum up, Pentlands Hills are an amazing spot for walking, running, cycling, horse riding or fishing.

They offer a variety of wildlife, green rural landscapes and are an awesome place to enjoy the outdoors. If you ask me, it’s also an amazing place for a romantic adventure such as Edinburgh elopement, portrait photoshoot or an engagement session.

Calton Hill – most romantic photography spots in Edinburgh

Calton Hill and its landmarks are one of the most recognisable symbols of Edinburgh.

It offers amazing view at the Edinburgh city centre and lots of opportunities to take great photographs. You’ll also be able to see Holyrood Park from Calton Hill.

The photographs of Carlton Hill and the views at the city are often used in the postcards and paintings depicting the city.

You’ll be able to see the Nelson Monument build at the highest point of Calton Hill, the National Monument of Scotland commemorating Scottish soldiers who died during Napoleonic Wars, visit the City Observatory and admire the view of Edinburgh city centre with the majestic Dugald Stewart Monument designed by a Scottish architect as a memorial to Dugald Stewart, a Scottish philosopher.

Calton Hill is also one of the best places to watch the Edinburgh Festival fireworks on the last day of Fringe.

Best Photography Spots in Edinburgh, Scotland – Edinburgh Photographer

Edinburgh offers an abundance of stunning locations, each providing the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photographs. Whether you’re a tourist looking to capture the beauty of the city, or you’re planning a wedding or engagement shoot, the options are endless. Hiring a professional photographer in Edinburgh ensures your special moments are captured with expert skill and care.

Professional photography not only guarantees high-quality images, but also ensures your memories are preserved in the best possible way. iPhone tripod isn’t always the best way to go!

Ready to capture your own Edinburgh moments? Get in touch with me today via the contact form to book your photoshoot!