The Best Photographers in Edinburgh with a Good Eye
Planning a surprise proposal on the Royal Mile or updating your corporate headshots demands the right person behind the lens. That’s why I spent time exploring the local creative scene to track down the best photographers in Edinburgh.
The professionals on this list stand out for their exceptional storytelling and their ability to put subjects at absolute ease. Here’s a closer look at the top talent ready to document your next big milestone in the Scottish capital.
If you’re specifically looking for a photographer for your wedding, here’s our specialist list on wedding photography.
How much does professional photography cost in Edinburgh?
Professional photography sessions in Edinburgh generally range from £150 for standard one-hour portraits to over £2,000 for full-day premium event coverage.
| Service Type | Range |
| Standard 1-Hour Photoshoot | £150 – £350 (Avg. £245) |
| Wedding / Specialized (Starting) | £700 – £800 |
| Full-Day Event Coverage | £1,700 – £2,000+ |
1. Rachel Hein Photography
Website: rachelhein.com
Address: Tribe Porty, 19 Windsor Pl, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 2AJ, United Kingdom
Contact: 07973 779223 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Rachel Hein focuses entirely on capturing real, unscripted emotion instead of relying on stiff, forced poses. Her ability to document authentic storytelling makes her an outstanding choice for anyone wanting a relaxed photography session.
With over fifteen years of experience, Rachel easily transitions between playful family portraits and polished commercial branding shoots. She knows the city intimately, constantly finding the perfect historic backdrop or quiet corner for locals and visitors alike.
If you’re planning a surprise proposal, she steps in to actively coordinate the moment so everything unfolds perfectly. I recently recommended her to a friend planning an elopement, and they were blown away by how she made the entire process feel like simply hanging out with a close companion.
Keep in mind that her documentary style means she doesn’t offer traditional, highly stylized indoor studio setups. However, her stunning on-location work easily speaks for itself.
If you’re thinking of booking with Rachel do it!!! She was AMAZING to work with took such BEAUTIFUL pictures that I love and gave great tips and tricks that helped my husband and I navigate through Edinburgh smoothly! Thank you to Rachel for everything we are so greatful for being able to book kinda last minute with you and how flexible you were throughout the whole process!! She went above and beyond our expectations, 20 out of 10 stars!!!
- Maecee Herrig Google Review
Rachel Hein was an absolute joy to work with. She has wonderful taste and turned what could have been a stressful morning into something calm and genuinely enjoyable. I usually hate having my photo taken, but I loved what she produced (including my favorite photo of myself ever)! I would use her services again.
- Blake Tormey Google Review
2. Ric Brannan Photography
Website: https://www.ricbrannanphotography.co.uk/
Address: Edinburgh, UK
Contact: 07814 705911 | [email protected]
Hours: Contact for more information
A strong emphasis on authenticity shapes the photography experience at Ric Brannan Photography. Edinburgh-based photographer Richard Brannan focuses on natural, emotive images, combining thoughtful composition and lighting with a subtle cinematic edge.
The portrait service is designed around keeping clients comfortable rather than making the session feel overly formal. Ric aims to create an easy-going environment where genuine expressions, individual personality, and spontaneous moments can come through naturally.
Clients can also choose from a broad selection of photography services beyond standard portraits. These include headshots, family photography, canine portraiture, weddings and elopements, as well as show and performance photography for musicals, dance productions, music performances, and similar events.
Performance capture places particular attention on the atmosphere and emotion of a live event. The resulting images are intended to give performers and companies photographs they can use for marketing and social media, while Ric also works with companies using photography as a fundraising opportunity.
Family photography offers flexibility in both style and setting, with formal and candid options available. The Day’s Out service adds another approach by capturing families during activities such as beach visits, farm trips, walks in the hills, or visits to castles, while studio availability is limited.
Headshots are positioned as an accessible service, and the company’s approach across its photography work combines enthusiasm with a willingness to explore creative ideas. For canine portraits in particular, the emphasis on an easy and meticulous process can help make photographing dogs a more manageable experience.
Ric Brannan Photography is likely to appeal to clients who prefer relaxed sessions and photographs that retain a natural sense of character. Its mix of portrait, event, family, canine, wedding, and performance services makes it suitable for people seeking a photographer with a versatile but recognisable visual approach.
I have used Ric for both a personal family photo shoot (special event) and for my corporate needs. Each was a very different type of shoot but Ric brought his professionalism and people centred approach to both. Each shoot demonstrated his ability to work in a variety of contexts and really understand what his clients needs are. My photos are wonderful and I cannot recommendation Ric highly enough. Rebecca
- Reb Le Fav, Google Review
We thoroughly enjoyed our family session with Ric! He was so professional, put us all at ease and captured fantastic photos! This can’t have been easy with our very active 2 year old, but Ric was very relaxed and calm with him and managed to get lots of giggles which made for great images! Can’t thank Ric enough and will definitely be back in the studio with him soon!!
- Claire Pirrie, Google Review
3. Blue Sky Photography
Website: https://blueskyphotography.co.uk/
Address: 6a New Mart Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1RL
Contact: [email protected] | 0131 447 1100
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Operating as an independent, family-run studio since 2003, Blue Sky Photography delivers a highly personalized experience that large chains simply cannot replicate. Their core philosophy centers on welcoming clients into a relaxing environment where everyone is treated like family.
The team even features a dedicated in-house editing expert who provides a bespoke final polish to every single image. Parents love their specialized baby club, which offers a structured way to document a newborn’s first year through three distinct photoshoots.
I appreciate their upfront approach to honest pricing, which builds immediate trust in an industry notorious for complex fee structures.
The main downside is that clients typically need to return to their physical location for a dedicated viewing session to select their images. This requirement might be slightly inconvenient for people with tight schedules or those traveling from outside the city limits.
When looking at Blue Sky’s portfolio it is evident that the photographs are sensational. However, what is not conveyed is the massive contribution they have in making the day so memorable. It was my daughter’s wedding day. Alie and Niels were just wonderful, taking control and keeping everyone calm. Orchestrating the whole day. Then came the photos – wow!! They had managed to capture the essence of the day. The formality but at the same time the fun, intimacy and individuality of all our guests. A true reflection of a sensational day to remember always. I highly recommend Blue Sky Photography.
- Diane W Google Review
Niels was fantastic to work with at our work event. He was incredibly friendly, professional, and made everyone feel at ease. The images are amazing and captured the atmosphere of the evening perfectly. We couldn’t be happier with the results and would highly recommend him.
- Abbie Goodwin Google Review
4. A-Fotografy Photography Studio
Website: https://www.a-fotografy.co.uk/
Address: 151 London Road, Edinburgh, EH7 6AE
Contact: 07850209999 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Armands, the lead photographer at A-Fotografy, has safely documented over a thousand babies since opening his studio in 2010. His sessions are entirely baby-led, prioritizing an unhurried, stress-free environment where plenty of time is allowed for feeding and settling.
This inclusive space also welcomes extended family members and pets at no additional charge. Beyond capturing digital images, the studio provides a full end-to-end experience by helping clients design custom physical artwork tailored to their home decor.
I sat through one of these design consultations with a family member, and the care put into crafting the heirloom boxes was truly impressive.
While the attention to detail is remarkable, the multi-step process requires a significant time commitment. Clients looking for a quick, digital-only transaction might find the separate planning and ordering appointments a bit overwhelming.
Armands was professional and charming! He made this photoshoot an everlasting memory for me and my fiancee. I absolutely recommend him for surprise engagement sessions and any other kind of events! He’s very professional and sent high quality photos.
- Javier Felix Alonso Lopez Google Review
Armands simple does the best work, there is no easier way to rate or recommend him, he’s shot weddings, baby and family photographs for many of my friends, and there is no one else I’d have trusted with my Wedding. Don’t look elsewhere, he’s number one.
- Dennis McBryde Google Review
Armands captures your forever moments in a way that is sentimental, meaningful and unique.
He was with us during my partner’s surprise engagement and he was professional, kind, respectful and funny and made the whole process very enjoyable and loving. We could not recommend him more. The photos are unbelievably good. We would add more stars if we could. Thanks Armands
- Eva Ioannidou Google Review
5. Fern Photography
Website: https://fernphotography.co.uk/
Address: 2a Broughton Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3RX, United Kingdom
Contact: +447722790373 | [email protected]
Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fern Photography offers flexible hourly rates starting with a two-hour minimum, making them an ideal choice for quick city hall ceremonies or intimate elopements. The studio operates with a unique tag-team approach, pairing Matt’s expertise in wild Highland settings with Dan’s mastery of urban streetscapes.
They also provide nostalgic Super 8 analogue film options, adding a cinematic charm that standard digital formats struggle to replicate. The team actively champions body positivity and inclusivity, ensuring every couple feels celebrated without the stuffiness of traditional event norms.
Clients also appreciate Fern’s pricing transparency.
However, securing their services requires a fifty percent non-refundable deposit. This high initial financial commitment can be steep for couples managing tight event budgets.
My husband and I recently booked with Fern Photography for a couples photoshoot. Matt was wonderful throughout the entire process, from booking to final gallery delivery. He was so gracious with us even though we were late for our meeting time. We truly enjoyed the conversations and he made us feel comfortable throughout the entire shoot. We are delighted with the final results! Thank you so much for capturing these memories. We will cherish them dearly.
- Dominique Kahale-Webster Google Review
So grateful for Matt’s work during my wedding! He made a great effort, using every moment for an amazing capture from us, Bride and Groom, and from our guests, with a stunning result of gorgeous memories! thank you Matt! Thank you Fern!
- Maggie Jones Google Review
6. PHOTO express
Website: https://photoxp.co.uk/
Address: 7 Melville Terrace, Edinburgh, EH9 1ND
Contact: 0131 667 2164 / [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM– 5:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
A major standout feature of PHOTO express is their integrated professional retouching, which combines manual expertise with AI to enhance every single image. They operate in a machine-calibrated environment to ensure all commercial and architectural shots are entirely production-ready for print media.
When handling family portraits, they remove the pressure of capturing the perfect shot by allowing unlimited images during the session. The team also excels at bringing old physical prints and negatives back to life through their specialized archival restoration services.
Situated near the Meadows, their studio seamlessly transitions between controlled indoor shoots and dynamic on-location projects.
That said, one notable drawback is their highly restricted weekend availability, as the physical studio only opens for a few hours on Saturday mornings. Additionally, the location’s high-traffic street makes securing a nearby parking space quite difficult during peak business hours.
Toby was very helpful and took my photo for my USA Visa application in minutes. Was sent to me electronically in less than 10 minutes, edited and cropped to the perfect size and resolution. Very efficient and definitely recommend!
- Susan C Google Review
Toby was fantastic and did a great job with the professional portrait I needed for my networking. It was super easy to book with him and he was very responsive. He was open to ideas and provided the direction I needed. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone that needs professional pictures!
- Morgan Adams Google Review