SCOTLAND COUPLE & ENGAGEMENT PHOTOSHOOT
Celebrate & capture your relationship, just as it is.
Perfect for engagements, anniversaries or just because.
Couples photoshoots across Scotland. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Glencoe, the Highlands, the Cairngorms & Isle of Skye.
SCOTLAND COUPLES PHOTOSHOOT
Your story deserves more than a quick selfie you’ll never frame. Whether you’re a local Scottish couple or you’re here on a dream holiday or you’ve just got engaged or you just want to celebrate your relationship – I’m on board.
Let’s explore the city, traipse through a park, grab a coffee, or wander through epic Scottish scenery and capture some photos that fill you with joy, delight, awe and gratitude for the person you love the most.
Looking for surprise proposal photography? Click here.
DOCUMENTARY COUPLES PHOTOGRAPHY
I take a guided documentary approach to my couple’s sessions. So that means, I’ll offer some support and guidance if you need help posing, or what to do with your hands. But there will be lots of walking, talking and interaction so that you don’t look or feel awkward. You know yourselves best – I’m not here to force you to be anything you’re not.
EDINBURGH & BEYOND
I offer these sessions all throughout Scotland. So whether there’s somewhere special that you’d like to celebrate (first date, where you met, where you went to uni), or you’re here in Scotland on a dream vacation or holiday – let me meet you where you are, and we’ll capture the two of you being you!
Honeymoon, engagement or anniversarY
If you’re on honeymoon, let’s capture that just married, committed to a happily ever after high you’re on! Recently engaged? You’re probably buzzing with excitement, ready to plan a wedding and spend forever-ever together – let your photoshoot show that! Been together for a year, 5, 10, 20? That’s incredibly impressive and you definitely deserve images that show your commitment to each other.
ALL LOVE IS WELCOME HERE
My business, and my approach is a safe space for all love, relationships, sexualities, gender identities and expressions. I’m also more than happy to collaborate with you, and help with any accessibility requests (a lot of Scotland is old, and slightly less accommodating). So please just let me know what I can do to help you have a wonderful experience.
Table of Contents
BEST LOCATIONS FOR COUPLES PHOTOSHOOTS IN EDINBURGH
Edinburgh was one of the first holidays my husband (then boyfriend) and I ever did together. And it’s the perfect city to explore as a couple. It’s magically photogenic, and everywhere you turn feels like a dream. However, there’s also tricky weather and very busy tourist seasons to navigate (but more on that later). For now, let’s go through some of the best locations in Edinburgh for your couples photo session.
OLD TOWN & THE ROYAL MILE
This is the heart of the city with its cobbled streets, quirky shops, hidden closes and stone facades – the Old Town and the Royal Mile make for a perfect backdrop for your couples photos.
The Royal Mile can get incredibly busy, so I’d recommend we do this very early in the morning, or very late in the day when it’s quieter (this depends on the time of year, so reach out, and I’ll give you more advice).
The best thing about photographing along the Royal Mile is how many beautiful spots you can do en route. Some of these include;
St Giles Cathedral: This gothic cathedral feels like the central hub of the Royal Mile with its dark stone, and architectural features.
The Writers Museum: Wandering down Lady Stair’s Close is Makar’s Court & the Writer’s Museum. This popular courtyard feels like you’ve stepped back in time, as you move just off the Royal Mile into a space surrounded by beautiful buildings.
Victoria Terrace and Victoria Street: Further up the mile, you’ll come to Victoria Terrace which is one of my favourite viewpoints. You’re actually looking down onto Victoria Street which served as inspiration for a very famous magical wizarding alley.
The Edinburgh Castle: While you’ll need a permit to photograph near the Castle, getting pretty close to it is a great spot to enjoy it up close, and maybe grab a quick snap or two with it in the background. Although in my opinion, there are better places to get more iconic shots of the castle.
Princes Street Gardens, The Ross Fountain & The Scott Monument
Near Waverly Train station, you’ll find a few great locations for your couples photoshoot. There’s the beautiful Princes Street Gardens, which lies below the old town, which means you’re often looking up at the incredible row of buildings that make up the Old Town, and the very majestic Edinburgh Castle jutting out over the edge.
When you’re at Princes Street Gardens, you can get some lovely photographs with the greenery, and also with the castle in the background.
Not to mention, the very well placed Ross Fountain, which lines up beautifully with the castle behind it.
We can also make the most of this location, and grab some photographs with the remarkable Scotts Monument that can be found on Princes Street.
THE VENNEL VIEWPOINT
Made even more famous by Netflix’s One Day series, the Vennel viewpoint is WELL worth trudging up some very steep steps for. Although it’s likely to be packed with tourists and influencers all craning for that perfect instagram shot – there’s a reason it’s so popular! It gives you (and my camera) the perfect line of sight to Edinburgh Castle.
CALTON HILL
Looking for interesting architecture, and breathtaking views across the city & Arthur’s Seat? Follow me, as we head up a steep (but short) path to Calton Hill. Calton Hill (which is actually an ancient volcano!), is home to a collection of unusual and iconic structures in Edinburgh. But what I love most about this location is – the view. You get a beautiful, uninterrupted view across the city on one side, across the Firth of Forth estuary on another, and Arthur’s Seat on the other! What more could you want?
ARTHUR'S SEAT, HOLYROOD PARK, ST ANTHONY'S CHAPEL RUINS
If you’re after something a bit more outdoorsy, with wider more expansive views, but still within easy access to the city – maybe have a think about Holyrood Park for your session. You’ve got a few options here;
Arthur’s Seat
Towering over Edinburgh is Arthur’s Seat, another old volcano that has been beloved by many a hiker, poet and artist. Robert Louis Stevenson called it “a hill for magnitude, a mountain in virtue of its bold design”. Depending on how fit you are, you might call it either a hill or a mountain, as it’ll take you about an hour to head up and down each way.
Holyrood Park
If you’re looking for something that’s more accessible, and just as gorgeous, we could explore Holyrood Park together. While it’s not quite the highlands, it’s incredibly beautiful and unspoilt. And a wonderful way to get some Scottish nature in your photo session. Within the park, we could also explore St Margaret’s Loch, or Dunsapie’s Loch for a bit of something magical.
St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins
Within Holyrood Park, a much easier walk would be to head up to St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins. Which feel otherworldly. While the history of the ruin is quite a mystery, I think that just adds to the magic of this structure surrounded by nature, overlooking the city.
DEAN VILLAGE
Dean Village is one of my absolute favourite hidden gems in Edinburgh to take my couples. Hidden away between a bunch of buildings on either side is this beautiful hidden spot that feels like you’ve stumbled into a Disney fairytale. I mean, it dates back to the 12th century – so that’s not surprising. It’s a wonderful place to explore just the two of you (and me…).
CIRCUS LANE
In Stockbridge, there’s an Instagram famous mews. With its pretty terraced houses on either side, and cobbled streets – I’m not surprised it’s so popular. If you’re after something that feels quaint and like a little dreamy village – this could be a great spot for us to include.
BEST LOCATIONS FOR COUPLES PHOTOSHOOTS IN SCOTLAND
If you’re looking for something a bit less city, and a bit more adventurous – I’m up for it! Scotland is ridiculously beautiful and I love nothing more than exploring somewhere new or familiar with my couples. Here are some suggestions you might want to consider…
GLENCOE
Glencoe is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, which is what makes it so popular with locals and visitors. It’s an incredibly scenic valley, with dramatic mountains surrounding you. The most well known and beautiful one being Buachaille Etive Mòr which stands as a beacon as you drive through the valley. There’s the famous Wee Little White House, the Skyfall road, and just exceptional scenery wherever you look.
Distance from Edinburgh: 2.5 – 3 hours drive.
ISLE OF SKYE
Possibly the easiest and most popular Isle to get to in Scotland (there’s no need to arrange a ferry), Skye is a dream destination for your couples session. It’s going to be all outdoors in epic scenery, come rain, shine or snow! You can head to the Quiraing quite easily (it’s a quick walk from the car park) and suddenly find yourself surrounded by cliffs and jaw dropping scenery. If you’re up for a bit more of an adventure you can explore the Cuillin mountains, Neist Point, or the Old Man of Storr.
Distance from Edinburgh: 5-5.5 hours drive.
EAST NEUK OF FIFE
A highly underrated part of Scotland in my opinion is the East Neuk of Fife. A collection of fishing villages, Pittenweem, Anstruther and Crail are full of gorgeous colourful homes, seaside charm and beautiful views. Spend some time exploring them, taking some photos, and ending the day with some fish and chips and an ice cream – perfection.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1-1.5 hours drive.
CAIRNGORMS
Home to some of the most expansive, vast and dramatic scenery, the Cairngorms is the perfect location for more adventurous couples who want drama and very very few people around. You could go to Loch Morlich for some beauty and calm (and a sneaky hot chocolate), before exploring the dramatic landscape up there.
Distance from Edinburgh: 3-4 hours drive.
LOCH LOMOND & THE TROSSACHS
Think you fancy something a little bit more green. Some wild forests that open out into tranquil lochs – then maybe Loch Lomond & the Trossachs are the right spot for your session. It’s probably my favourite place in Scotland. It’s actually where we got engaged, so it’s always my favourite place to celebrate love. We can spend some time lochside. Either along Loch Lomond, Loch Venachar or Loch Lubnaig. And if you’re up for a short hike, we can head up to Balquhidder where we got engaged for an epic view.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1-1.5 hours drive
THE HERMITAGE, DUNKELD
A lovely wee spot in Perthshire, just outside of the village of Dunkeld, is where you’ll find the Hermitage. A gentle walk through giant trees alongside a rushing stream – this is one of my absolute happy places. After about 8 minutes from the car park, you’ll come across Ossian’s Hall, which has a view of the waterfall. Just a short drive away is Dunkeld, where you can rest up with a drink at the Taybank and enjoy the river Tay.
Distance from Edinburgh: 1.5 hours drive
CASTLES
Looking for something a bit more cinematic for your couple’s photoshoot while you’re in Scotland? Let’s go explore a castle! You can pick from something like Dunnottar Castle in Aberdeenshire, or Eileen Donan Castle on your way to Skye, or my local castle ruin, Balvaird Castle!
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR COUPLE'S PHOTOSHOOT
WEATHER
The key thing to keep in mind for your couples photoshoot in Scotland is the weather. Weather in Scotland can vary wildly from beautiful sunny days (rare, but real), to gloomy misty weather. The most important thing is that you lean into the weather. After all, it’s often what makes Scotland as dreamy and dramatic as it is. But with that being said, you need to be prepared for all options. Make sure that you’re happy with your outfits in whatever weather. Ie: pick a coat that you’re happy to be photographed in. If we’re somewhere more adventurous, choose the right footwear that will keep you warm & dry. And we’re in Scotland, so bundle up with a tartan of choice!
TOURISTS
As you will know, Scotland is wonderfully popular with tourists, so certain locations are likely to be incredibly busy at certain times of the year, especially during peak season. But you can work around this by having your session early or late in the day (especially during summer – more on that in the next section), or by picking locations that are more remote or less popular. Otherwise, embrace the busyness, hustle and bustle of it all!
LIGHTING
Here in Scotland, we have very short days during winter, and very long days in summer. Often the best light is the first few hours in the morning, and the last few hours of light. Keep that in mind when planning your shoot, and also picking where you want to be, and what else you might want to do that day. If you’re here on holiday or vacation, getting up really early can mean that you get the location to yourselves, beautiful light, and you still keep the rest of your day for your planned activities.
CLOTHING
Ultimately, this is completely up to you. You can really wear whatever you feel comfortable in. But you might want to consider the background. If it’s the city, wearing something more neutral and lighter will help you stand out. If it’s somewhere outdoors, wearing something brighter would help you stand out. Alternatively, you might want to consider matching the tones. Something that can blow in the wind can also add dramatism to a photograph. But ultimately, don’t wear things with logos, and wear something that makes you feel confident.
ACTIVITIES
If you’re feeling uncomfortable about having your photos taken…firstly – don’t worry. I specialise in photographing people who’ve never been photographed before. So I’ve got you. But secondly, you might want to consider doing an activity during your session. Going and grabbing a coffee at your favourite coffee shop, or rowing a boat on a local lake. Something that will distract you, and get you feeling comfortable.
HOW MUCH DOES A SCOTLAND COUPLES PHOTOSHOOT COST?
There are two main base packages I offer for couples photography. They differ in the length of the session, the location of the session, and how many images you receive. You can also add on a variety of options and services to them too. The Couples Session starts at £425, and the Adventure Session starts at £625.
HOW TO BOOK YOUR SESSION
If you’d like to book a session with me, you can fill out the form at the bottom of this page. We can have a discussion over email, or on a call about your plans and thoughts for your session. I’ll send you a contract and an invoice, and we’ll make it official!
Scotland Couples Photoshoot Pricing & Packages
The Epic Session
Dreaming of an epic adventure session on the Isle of Skye? This is the session for you.
2 HOURS OF COVERAGE
If you’re making it all the way to Skye, let’s make it worth your while with some incredible photographs of the two of you.
YOUR PHOTOS
High resolution, professionally edited images delivered in a private online gallery.
Around 60-100 images.
Images delivered within 2 weeks.
TRAVEL
My travel to and from Skye is included.
£ 975
The Adventure Session
Let’s go adventuring in the Highlands. Whether it’s Glencoe, Loch Lomond or the Cairngorms – let’s capture your relationship in some epic Scottish scenery.
1 – 2 HOURS OF COVERAGE
Depending on the location, we could explore up to two different areas outdoors. This includes travel time from one location to another.
YOUR PHOTOS
Around 100 images.
Images delivered within 2 weeks.
TRAVEL
£ 675
The Couple's Session
Looking for an engagement shoot, a honeymoon session or just some photos of you in Edinburgh? This is perfect for 1 location and some photos of the two of you.
1 HOUR OF COVERAGE
YOUR PHOTOS
High resolution, professionally edited images delivered in a private online gallery.
Around 40-60 images.
Images delivered within 2 weeks.
TRAVEL
£ 425 (1hr) or £575 (2hr)
Hi, I'm Micaela!
(she/her)
I’m a couples photographer based just north of Edinburgh. I’ve been photographing people in love for over a decade now, and I think everyone deserves photographs of themselves that represent their love story, their relationship and their friendship.
When I’m not photographing, I’m probably binge watching a docuseries with my husband, chasing my twin boys around the garden or hyperfixating on a new craft project.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Almost 99% of my couples feel exactly the same – you’re not alone! I’ve spent a literal decade making my couples feel comfortable in front of the camera, and your comfort is my number one priority. Just trust me during the session, and I’ll give you lots of support and suggestions to help you loosen up, be yourselves and most importantly have fun.
Session prices start from £425 but can vary depending on where in Scotland you’re having your session, and how many hours you want your session to be.
I would call myself a ‘creative documentary’ photographer. Which means that I switch between being exclusively documentary (blending into the background, capturing things as they happen), and then being more creative (setting up the occasional shot, and directing you a smidge).
Fill out the contact form below, and share as much information with me as you can about where, when and how you want your session to be. If I’ve got availability, I’ll let you know, and we can confirm the date and location. I’ll send you a book proposal with a contract and invoice. Once that’s been paid, your session will be confirmed.
I would recommend at least 4-8 weeks in advance, especially during peak season. However, if I’m available, I’m happy to take short notice bookings. And if you’re planning in advance, I’m happy to reserve your date for you too. Basically, as soon as you have a date in mind – let me know.
Absolutely I do! I photograph regularly in Edinburgh and the highlands, and am happy to travel as far as Glencoe or the Isles. Depending on the package that you pick, travel from either 1 to 3 hours is included. Otherwise, there are travel fees for locations that are far flung.
If we’re only shooting for an hour, I’d recommend swapping out a jacket or something very small as we won’t have much time. But if you’ve booked me in for a longer session, we can absolutely do an outfit change.
Absolutely! All love is welcome here, and I aim to make sure everyone feels comfortable regardless of orientation or identity.
Absolutely! Dogs are fantastic in all scenarios, but especially on a shoot. They can give you a welcome distraction and bring some joy and fun.
There’s nothing I love more than the sheer terror of panicked waiting in a bush wondering if I’ve spotted the right couple and if someone’s about to get down on one knee. Actually, there is. It’s getting to photograph the moment your life is about to change when one of you proposes, and the other says yes! If you’re thinking of proposing, have a look here to see how I can help.
Not really – an engagement photoshoot is basically a couples photoshoot that celebrates your engagement. The vibe and process are the same. In fact, a lot of couples use these terms interchangeably. So whether you’re engaged or just dating or married for 10 years, the session focus is capturing your relationship.
Yes. Your online gallery is linked to a professional print lab, so you (or family/friends) can order high-quality prints of your favorite photos easily. I offer prints in various sizes, beautiful framed enlargements, and bespoke photo albums.
READY FOR SOME COUPLE OR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS?
If you’re interested in having me photograph the two of you, just as you are – get in touch.
READY FOR SOME COUPLE OR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS?
If you’re interested in having me photograph the two of you, just as you are – get in touch.