Capturing Love in Edinburgh: A Styled Elopement Through the City’s Iconic Spots

If you’ve ever dreamed of eloping in Scotland, there’s no better place than the historic and enchanting city of Edinburgh. This past April I had the pleasure of photographing a styled elopement that showcased the city’s most iconic spots and, in true Scottish fashion, gave us a taste of all four seasons in one day. From misty rain showers to a breathtaking golden hour, this shoot was a beautiful reminder of why Edinburgh is such a magical destination for couples.

A Tour of Edinburgh’s Most Romantic Landmarks:

Our day began at the Scott Monument, where the day greeted us with a moody, overcast sky. The Gothic spires of the monument loomed over us, their dark silhouettes contrasting sharply against the cloudy backdrop. Despite the gloom, the monument’s striking architecture provided an atmospheric start to our elopement adventure, perfectly setting the tone for the day.

From there, we made our way to Princes Street Gardens, where the lush greenery offered a refreshing contrast to the brooding skies. The soft light filtering through the clouds created a gentle ambiance, allowing us to capture the couple in moments of quiet intimacy amidst the garden’s vibrant blooms. The gardens, nestled beneath the watchful gaze of Edinburgh Castle, provided a serene escape in the heart of the city.

Next, we visited Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh's most picturesque and colorful streets. The charming, curved row of historic buildings in vibrant hues created a whimsical backdrop for our shoot. As the couple wandered down the street, the rich colors and unique character of Victoria Street added a playful and lively element to our photos, showcasing another side of Edinburgh’s beauty.

Following our time on Victoria Street, we headed to the Vennel Steps, a narrow passageway steeped in history. As we climbed the cobblestone steps, the weather began to shift, adding a layer of anticipation to the shoot. The view of Edinburgh Castle from the top was breathtaking, and the couple’s traditional kilted attire from MacGregor & MacDuff - King of Kilts added to the timeless feel of the setting.

As the day progressed, the weather began to change for the better. By the time we reached St Giles’ Cathedral, the clouds were beginning to part. The cathedral’s grand architecture, with its intricate details and towering spires. The shifting light provided us with a beautiful mix of shadows and highlights, perfectly capturing the transition from the day’s earlier gloom to the emerging warmth of the afternoon.

Finally, as the day drew to a close, we returned to Princes Street Gardens just in time for a stunning golden hour. The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the couple. The golden hour was a testament to the unpredictable beauty of Scotland’s weather, and it allowed us to capture the couple in a truly magical moment..