There’s a wealth of venues that promise incredible wedding images, but where do the professionals prefer? Scottish photographers tell Amy Shearer where their dream settings are
Your wedding photos will capture it all, what you wore, who was there and the most important moments. The venue will be the backdrop for all of these photos, from getting ready through to dancing the night away, so it’s an important choice.
To get you started, these photographers have shared their favourite wedding venues to photograph.
Barcaldine Castle
For Aly Robinson Photography, it’s Barcaldine Castle. “I can say that my favourite element about this castle near Oban is its fairytale aesthetic. The grounds of the castle are surrounded by gardens and wide open fields, and the picturesque mountains in the distance only adds to its charm. It’s a very dramatic place and as a photographer and art historian, I simply love it.”
The Quiraing on Skye
Isle of Lewis based photographer Esther Chlad Photography told us: “The Quiraing on the Isle of Skye is my favourite outdoor wedding location in Scotland, as the drama and breathtaking beauty of the landscape create a romantic, fairytale elopement feel, which I am living for.”
Enterkine House
Gary James Photography chose Enterkine house. “This Ayrshire venue offers so many great options for photography, no matter the weather. There’s a gorgeous road up to the venue with trees either side that offer some shelter from the rain; there’s a field nearby that is perfect to take the couple to for a wee escape from the buzz of the day; and balcony that’s ideal for formal photographs.
“There’s a wealth of natural light coming in through the windows to the glass pavilion – another great feature for photographers.”
Dun Aluinn
Luke Bennett Photography explained why he loves Dun Aluinn: “Nestled within woodland on the outskirts of Aberfeldy, the location of this Perthshire venue is simply stunning with vistas of Highland hills in the distance.
“The interior is modern, elegant and stylish. In particular, the main reception room where the meal takes place is a photographer’s dream; it opens out onto a wonderful terrace that offers views down the valley.”
The Log Cabin Ravensheugh
Photography duo Julia and Sarah of Wild Bracken Photography‘s go to venue is The Log Cabin Ravensheugh. “There are so many locations at this venue near Dunbar for taking photos.
“There’s woods, a cliff top, Tyninghame beach – and that’s before you even foray inside and outside the log cabin itself! We took this particular couple through the woodland walk down to the beach stopping and taking images at many different spots.”
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Jacek Hübner shared his wedding photo advice, saying: “A good venue works quietly in the background, allowing the love story to take centre stage, and offering dynamic spaces and atmosphere for the various stages of the celebration.
“Tucked away and unassuming, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh’s beautiful rooms offer unique spaces steeped in history for couples to share their vows. Ancient halls, indoor balconies overlooking some of the oldest books in the country, and completely gorgeous natural light beaming in through period windows and cupolas all make this an idyllic setting.”
The Kibble Palace, Glasgow Botanic Gardens
Situated in Glasgow’s West End, The Kibble Palace was Ben Fitzhugh Photography‘s choice of venue. “This Victorian glasshouse in Glasgow Botanic Gardens is a lovely venue for couples that may be a little worried about the classic Scottish weather, as the inside is absolutely stunning!
“One of my favourite features is how many options there are for portraits, all within the same building. For the best shots, I always suggest heading right to the far side of Kibble Palace, where the plant life is most dense.”
The Dell of Abernethy
Speaking about The Dell of Abernethy, Catriona Parmenter Photography explained: “This peaceful retreat just on the edge of Nethy Bridge in the Cairngorms breathes natural and authentic chilled vibes. I know that the best photographs are the ones taken when people feel comfortable and are able to enjoy the day unfold naturally.
“The hosts at The Dell of Abernethy genuinely do go above and beyond, making sure that the weddings they host seem effortless to the couple and their guests.”
Cornhill Castle
Allan Forrester at Biggar Picture said of Cornhill Castle: “My favourite South Lanarkshire venue has picturesque scenery and is really quite secluded. The frontage is spectacular and the stuff of fairytales, with so many couples saying that upon coming up the driveway, they were already sold on the place.
“There are amazing wee pockets for photography all around the gardens, but the inside is no less stunning if the weather takes a turn.”
Mar Lodge Estate
Pocket Square Photography‘s Neil Jarvie sis a fan of Mar Lodge Estate, telling us: “This Cairngorms property, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, is one of these unique venues where inside has so much character (including an entire room covered in antlers), and outside is right next to some absolutely stunning forest locations.
“With a wee pair of wellies and five-minute car journey, it’s possible to get a big variety of shots over a very small amount of time.”
Brig O’Doon
It’s no wonder that photographer Jarek Hamala of JH Weddings adores Brig O’Doon. Situated within an area of outstanding natural beauty on the banks of the River Doon, it is an iconic piece of Scottish history set amidst several acres of perfectly manicured gardens and grounds – perfect for getting ‘the shot’.
Couples can even be photographed on the iconic bridge made famous by Rabbie Burns’ epic poem ‘Tam o’ Shanter’. Inside, the events space is magical, with a wooden staircase allowing couples to make an entrance to the cheers of guests sitting below.
Dunimarle Castle
Explaining what she loves about Dunimarle Castle, Rachel Spence Photography said: “This Culross venue is so beautiful inside, it feels like stepping back in time!
“Climb the tower and there’s the best views from top and bottom, but walk just outside the gates and there’s an amazing wild garden which has so many bursts of colour. I can use these to frame up my couple. ‘Bush lurking’ like this is one of my favourite ways to catch natural photos!”