The Best Edinburgh Couples Photoshoot Locations
UPDATED: 27TH MAY 2025
Looking for the best Edinburgh couples photoshoot locations? I got you!
Beautiful backdrops, hidden corners, and a bit of Edinburgh magic
I’ve lived in Edinburgh my whole life, and I still catch myself stopping to take it all in—the light on the stone, the layers of history, the way the streets twist and tumble over the hills. It’s a city that never gets old, and it’s full of incredible spots for honest, natural, and atmospheric couples photos. I’m here to help you fine the best Edinburgh couples photoshoot locations.
My style is artistic but relaxed, and your love story is documented authentically on both digital and analogue film (35mm and medium format). Just the two of you, as you are, in places that feel like they could be straight out of a film.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to document this moment in your lives, here are some of my favourite Edinburgh locations for a couples shoot. A mix of big views, quiet corners, and places that mean something.
The BEST EDINBURGH COUPLES PHOTOSHOOT LOCATIONS
1. Calton Hill
Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA
AN ICONIC EDINBURGH SKYLINE VIEWPOINT
Let’s start with a classic. Calton Hill is where you’ll get that postcard view of Edinburgh: the Dugald Stewart Monument with the castle in the background and the kind of sunset that makes you look at each other and say, “Should we just move here?”.
It’s popular for a reason, but there are quieter corners too—plus, it’s an easy climb. Bring a flask, hold hands on the way up, and let’s get some epic shots at the top.
Calton Hill can get very busy with tourists, so I always suggest Calton Hill for an early morning or a late evening summer session.
The morning glow at Calton Hill is just as gorgeous as the rare Edinburgh Sunset.
Bonus tip: If the Collective Gallery is closed I like to sneak up here for a few photos of the exterior of the beautiful Georgian building and another view of the Edinburgh Skyline. You can also request a license to photograph here during the day.
2. Victoria Street & upper Royal Mile
Victoria St, Edinburgh, EH1 2HL
HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURE AND CHARACTER
Victoria Street is one of those places that just works on camera—curved cobbles, colourful shopfronts, and that unmistakable Edinburgh charm. It’s vibrant without being flashy, and even on a grey day, it has bags of personality.
Just off the Royal Mile, you’ll find quieter corners like Riddle’s Court—a hidden courtyard with warm sandstone walls and original details that feel frozen in time. Nearby, the Writers’ Museum and Lady Stair’s Close offer moody shadows, twisting staircases, and old-world texture. It’s all very Edinburgh without being overdone.
And if you fancy a splash of quirky Victorian architecture with views over the city, Ramsay Garden is just around the corner. Tucked above Princes Street Gardens it’s perfect for that moody-romantic vibe.
Another Favourite of mine is the area around St. Giles Cathedral. The gothic doorways of the cathedral are ironic Edinburgh and I love blendingthis with the Georgian archways and architecture at Parliament Sq,
3. Dean Village
3 Hawthornbank Ln, Edinburgh EH4 3BH
A MAGICAL RIVERSIDE OLD VILLAGE LOCATION
Tucked away like a secret, Dean Village is all turrets, ivy, and the Water of Leith burbling past. It’s a little slice of the Highlands in the middle of the city. We can wander the bridge, duck into little lanes, and make it look like you’ve stepped back in time (with better hair).
I always suggest walking from Dean Vilage along the water of leith walkway to Stockbridge. A Stop at St. Bernard’s Well is always a good idea. We can combine Dean Village with some New Town photos for a variety from your photoshoot.
4. Arthur’s Seat & Holyrood Park
Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh, EH15 3PY
A MAGICAL RIVERSIDE OLD VILLAGE LOCATION
Feeling adventurous? Let’s go full Wuthering Heights (but with less heartbreak). Holyrood Park offers tons of variety, from craggy cliffs to wide open skies.
Arthur’s Seat is a climb, but we don’t have to go all the way up – you can have incredible views without needing hiking boots. Great for couples who love a bit of drama (the good kind).
My favourite spots to photograph at Arthur’s Seat are:
– Haggis Knowe Viewpoint (short hike & epic views of the Edinburgh skyline)
– St. Anthony’s Chapel (stunning chapel ruins)
-Dunsapie Loch (a hiddel gem that makes you feel like you are in the highlands not a city)
5. Circus Lane
Circus Lane, Edinburgh, EH3 6SU
ROMANTIC WINDING COBBLED STREET
Ah, Circus Lane. Possibly the most photogenic little street in Edinburgh. Cobbles? Check. Stone houses with ivy and roses? Check. A clear view of St Stephen’s steeple? Also check. It’s tucked away in Stockbridge and perfect for intimate, romantic shots with a timeless feel.
Circus Lane can get a bit busy with tourist traffic. If you love the Circus Lane vibes but are looking for somewhere more quiet, I can take you to some streets with a similar vibe but are much quieter!
6. The Vennel Steps
1 Vennel, Edinburgh EH1 2HU
MY FAVOURITE VIEWPOINT OF EDINBURGH CASTLE
Tucked just off the Grassmarket, The Vennel is hands down my favourite spot to photograph the castle. I walked up and down here every day when I was studying at Edinburgh College of Art and it just has this romantic nostalgia for me.
There’s something about the way it rises up between the old stone tenements—it’s dramatic, iconic, and somehow still quiet, even in the middle of the city.
You might recognise it from the Netflix series One Day—yes, the stairway scene. But even before that, it was a bit of a hidden gem.
The steps, the textures, the light filtering through on a misty morning… it’s all very Edinburgh, in the best possible way. Perfect for something cinematic without the crowds.
7. The Royal Mile & Old Town Closes
Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1QS
MOODY CORNERS AND TUCKED AWAY STORIES
The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s ancient backbone, but the real magic is what’s hidden just off it. The closes—those narrow, atmospheric alleyways—are full of character and brilliant for photos that feel intimate, textured, and totally timeless.
Bakehouse Close is a must if you’re a fan of Outlander—it’s where they filmed Jamie’s print shop scenes. The light here is always soft, and the old stone makes everything feel cinematic.
A few minutes away, Dunbar’s Close Garden is one of my favourite hidden spots—step through an archway and you’re suddenly in a peaceful little 17th-century garden. It’s calm, green, and feels completely cut off from the city around it.
Then there’s White Horse Close, which looks like a painting with it’s quirky historical and ivy covered buildings. A little offbeat, a bit eccentric, and great for couples who love something with character.
EXTRA LOCATION IDEAS
BONUS HIDDEN GEM IDEAS
Stockbridge
The Market sign and architecture always make a cinematic background.
New Town Doorways
Georgian chic and symmetrical perfection
Dr Neil’s Garden
Secluded and utterly romantic – great for spring and summer
National Portrait Gallery
Perfect for rainy days and art lovers
I’ve shot over 400 weddings in Edinburgh and beyond and I’ll never tire of it.
As an Edinburgh-based wedding photographer, I am continually inspired by the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. The blend of historic charm and modern elegance provides a picturesque backdrop that enhances the storytelling of each wedding or photoshoot I capture. From the cobbled streets of the Old Town to the grandeur of the New Town, Edinburgh offers a diverse canvas that beautifully complements the unique love stories of my couples. I’m always here to help you find the best Edinburgh couples photoshoot locations for your wedding, couples or engagement photoshoot.
READY TO MEET YOUR
Edinburgh couples photoshoot photographer?
My passion for art and nostalgia, rooted in my early experiences with 35mm film photography, finds a perfect match in Edinburgh’s timeless beauty.
The city’s landscapes and iconic landmarks allow me to blend modern documentary styles with editorial direction, creating authentic and artful narratives of each couple’s special day.
Photographing in Edinburgh not only fuels my creativity but also deepens my appreciation for the connections and joy that weddings bring, making each moment behind the lens truly fulfilling.
Get in touch to book me to photograph your Edinburgh wedding!
EDINBURGH WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Based in Edinburgh, Scotland. I capture wedding and elopement photography worldwide.
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