The Edinburgh Walkabout – Pt 2 of 2 : Architecture and Gothic Drama
The Edinburgh Walkabout – Pt 2 of 2 : Architecture and Gothic Drama
Following on from yesterday’s blog post with Zan Phee modelling for me, today I am posting the photos I took of the buildings around Edinburgh.
When I approach a city (or anywhere, really) to photograph, it’s good to look at the obvious opportunities (in this case Edinburgh Castle) but perhaps more importantly for me I want to capture some of the less celebrated spots around and about. Of course, with such a stunning castle sitting on the horizon pretty much wherever you go, it’s difficult not to photograph it…
One thing which struck me about Edinburgh is the amount of perfect little alleys, walkways, hidey-holes and generally great locations to photograph. The third picture below is of the Scotsman Steps, each step is made from a different type of marble.
If you’ve seen the first part of my blog, you’ll recognise the following steps as the ones Zan sat on (third picture), those portrait shots were done with an 85mm f1.2 lens, these architecture ones are done with a Tilt and Shift 17mm lens, so you can see the difference in feel you can achieve.
When I needed a rest I stopped by a lovely little cafe called Forsyth’s Tea Room in Old Town to have a coffee. The amazing lady there, Christina, welcomed me warmly and gave me a map to carry on my adventure. (see photo of lovely lady below)
I don’t quite know why I love this image so much, I think it’s the fact that this huge camper van piled into my photo (at an angle), it makes me smile.
Finally here are a few more moments which I saw as I made my way around Edinburgh, including some of the graffiti there, neatly placed on these arched boards.
An excellent day spent in a great city….. I’m now planning a similar trip around other cities to carry on this theme – so keep an eye out for future posts.
Thanks
Paul
I’ve prepared some interesting Edinburgh Facts below, hope you like them! Let me know in the comments below!
Exploring Edinburgh’s Architecture and Culture
Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital, is a city that seamlessly blends architectural grandeur with vibrant culture. Its iconic skyline, centuries-old buildings, and dynamic arts scene provide endless inspiration for photographers and visitors alike. This guide delves into Edinburgh’s architectural treasures and cultural richness, highlighting opportunities for capturing its essence through photography.
A City of Contrasts: The Old Town and the New Town
Edinburgh is renowned for its contrasting districts: the medieval Old Town and the Georgian New Town. The Old Town’s narrow, winding streets, known as closes, are steeped in history, with layered buildings reflecting centuries of development. In contrast, the New Town showcases a more orderly, neoclassical elegance, designed in the late 18th century to address overcrowding.
Photographers will find endless subjects in the Old Town’s hidden alleys, arches, and tenements. Meanwhile, the New Town offers wide streets, symmetrical layouts, and stately facades, ideal for capturing urban geometry and light interplay.
The Iconic Royal Mile
The Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, offering a journey through history. Along this historic street, you’ll find landmarks like St Giles’ Cathedral and the Mercat Cross. The area is bustling with street performers, artisans, and tourists, creating dynamic opportunities for candid street photography.
The variety of architectural styles here—from medieval to Victorian—provides an ever-changing backdrop. Early mornings or evenings often bring softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for creating moody, atmospheric shots.
The Dramatic Skyline of Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s skyline is unmistakable, dominated by the volcanic outcrop of Arthur’s Seat and the rugged Salisbury Crags. The city’s dramatic topography has inspired countless artists and photographers over the years. The Castle, perched high on Castle Rock, is particularly striking when viewed from Princes Street Gardens or Calton Hill.
For photographers, capturing the interplay of light on the city’s layered architecture can be a rewarding challenge. Sunrise and sunset are perfect times to photograph Edinburgh’s skyline, as the low-angle light enhances its textures and depth.
Gothic Drama in Architecture
Edinburgh is often associated with Gothic Revival architecture, a style that adds a sense of mystery and drama to the city. The Scott Monument, a towering tribute to Sir Walter Scott, exemplifies this. With its intricate spires and dark stone, it’s a striking subject for both wide shots and close-up details.
Photographers interested in textures and contrasts will find the weathered stone and sharp lines of Gothic architecture captivating. Night photography can also bring these structures to life, especially when illuminated against a dark sky.
Cultural Festivals: A Photographer’s Dream
Edinburgh’s cultural calendar is packed with events, the most famous being the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Every August, the city transforms into a global stage, hosting performers and artists from around the world. The streets come alive with vibrant costumes, impromptu performances, and colorful decorations.
For photographers, the festival is an opportunity to capture the city’s energy and creativity. Whether you’re documenting performers, crowds, or the interplay of historic architecture with modern art, the possibilities are endless.
Literary Legacy and Its Influence
Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature, home to renowned authors such as Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and J.K. Rowling. Many landmarks, like the Writers’ Museum and the Elephant House café, are tied to its literary history.
Photographers can explore the city’s literary connections by capturing locations that inspired famous works. The atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, for example, is thought to have influenced parts of the Harry Potter series, offering both historical and creative inspiration.
Edinburgh’s Green Spaces
Despite its urban setting, Edinburgh is rich in green spaces. Holyrood Park, with Arthur’s Seat as its centerpiece, offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. The Royal Botanic Garden is another gem, featuring diverse plant collections and serene landscapes.
These natural retreats provide a contrast to the city’s stone and concrete, making them ideal for landscape photography. Seasonal changes add variety, with vibrant colors in autumn and fresh blooms in spring.
Edinburgh’s Hidden Gems
Beyond the main attractions, Edinburgh is filled with hidden gems that reward exploration. Dean Village, a tranquil neighborhood along the Water of Leith, feels like stepping into a fairytale. Its quaint cottages and stone bridges are perfect for photography.
Another lesser-known spot is the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, offering both panoramic views of the city and quirky indoor exhibits. Capturing the interplay of light and reflection here can lead to some creative compositions.
The Influence of Weather on Photography
Edinburgh’s weather is famously unpredictable, often changing several times a day. This variability can be a blessing for photographers, offering dramatic skies and unique lighting conditions. Misty mornings, in particular, add a sense of mystery to the city’s historic streets.
Rain-soaked pavements can reflect light beautifully, creating opportunities for moody urban shots. Being prepared for all weather conditions is key to making the most of your photographic opportunities in Edinburgh.
The Dynamic Cultural Scene
Edinburgh’s cultural offerings go beyond its festivals. The city boasts world-class museums, galleries, and theaters, such as the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery. These venues often feature striking architecture and curated exhibits, ideal for indoor photography.
Live music and traditional ceilidh dances are integral to the city’s culture. Capturing these performances can be a challenge due to low light, but the results are worth it, conveying the energy and passion of Edinburgh’s artistic community.
Interesting Facts About Edinburgh
- A City Built on Volcanoes: Edinburgh is built on seven hills, including extinct volcanic formations like Arthur’s Seat and Castle Rock.
- World’s First Skyscrapers: The Old Town’s multi-story tenements are considered among the world’s earliest skyscrapers.
- Hidden Underground: Mary King’s Close is a preserved underground street, offering a glimpse into 17th-century life.
- Greyfriars Bobby: A statue of a loyal dog, Bobby, commemorates his 14-year vigil at his owner’s grave.
- The Birthplace of Harry Potter: J.K. Rowling wrote parts of the Harry Potter series in Edinburgh’s cafés.
- Haunted Hotspot: Edinburgh is known as one of Europe’s most haunted cities, with ghost tours exploring its spooky past.
- The One O’Clock Gun: This daily tradition at Edinburgh Castle dates back to 1861, helping sailors synchronize their clocks.
- Royal Connections: The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
- Artistic Inspiration: Edinburgh’s dramatic architecture has inspired countless painters, writers, and photographers.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site: Both the Old Town and the New Town are recognized for their cultural and historical significance.
Edinburgh’s architecture and culture offer endless inspiration for photographers and travelers alike. From its historic streets to its dynamic arts scene, the city invites exploration and creativity at every turn.