Top 10 Photo Spots in Scotland

Is Scotland good for photography?

Scotland is a living dream for landscape photographers and easily one of the best photography locations in the world. With its craggy mountains, lochs, dramatic coastlines, ancient woodlands and historic landmarks (think magical castles), there's no shortage of stunning scenes to capture.

Over the years, I've spent countless early mornings, dramatic days and panic-stricken evenings exploring and photographing these breathtaking locations. In this guide, I'm thrilled to share my top 10 photography spots in Scotland. Each location comes with personal anecdotes, professional tips, parking spots and unique insights to help you get the most out of your visit.

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For those who want an even deeper dive, don't miss my Scotland Photography Locations eBook below to have 46 stunning & easy to follow landscape photography locations in Scotland right at your fingertips, including exact location coordinates!

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SCOTLAND - A LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION GUIDE EBOOK

1. Bow Fiddle Rock, Moray.

Bow Fiddle Rock, an extremely striking rock formation nestled in north-east Scotland's Moray Firth, is an absolute gem for landscape photographers. The walk down to this iconic subject from the parking spot is a short, pleasant wander (under 5 mins) that reveals a picturesque bay. As you explore, you'll discover rock pools amidst the shifting tides, perfect for adding depth/foreground to your shots. Try crouching low where the tide flows in for unique compositions, but do protect your gear (and be careful not to get marooned if the tide is coming in, like I nearly did). The changing environment offers loads of creative possibilities. Capturing the waves and the contrasting textures of the rocks and water keeps you on your toes and constantly inspired.

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

Bow Fiddle Rock in Scotland, a large, arch-shaped rock formation jutting out of the sea, with waves crashing against the surrounding rocks under a clear sky. — *I used my* *6-stop ND filter* *to smooth out the foreground waves |* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* *| 14mm, 1/4sec, F/11, ISO64*

Photographer in a colorful knit hat and orange jacket, excitedly posing with a Nikon Z7 camera on a tripod against a rocky background — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *NiSi 6-stop Filter* | *NiSi Polarising Filter* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

2. The Three Sisters, Glencoe.

As roadside locations go, The Three Sisters viewpoint in Glencoe is the best in Scotland for me. In any conditions these mountains are a joy to photograph. It's a great spot if you're just passing by on the busy A82. You can park the car, jump out, grab a quick pano and then be on your way. With that being said, it's worth mentioning that there's plenty to explore in this area too. The rushing River Coe makes for some great foreground elements and a hike up into the Lost Valley brings superb photographic opportunities! I must have driven past this spot nearly 100 times, but the view of these otherworldly peaks never fails to blow my mind. If you’re looking for an easy photograph that has impact, this is your spot! I’d recommend either a wide angle lens, or stopping and taking some time to shoot panoramas as The Three Sisters themselves are a huge subject to fit into your frame.

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

River Coe in Glencoe, Scotland, flowing between rugged, pink-hued rocks with a towering, green-covered mountain in the background under a cloudy sky. — *Explore the rushing River Coe for limitless foreground options for your photographs to compliment the epic Three Sisters |* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* *| 18.5mm, 1/2sec, F/11, ISO64*

Photographer in an orange jacket and red cap setting up a tripod with a camera by River Coe in Glencoe, Scotland, with lush green mountains and rocky terrain in the background. — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *NiSi 6-stop Filter* | *NiSi Polarising Filter* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

3. The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye.

No Scotland landscape photography locational guide would be truly complete without an inclusion of (at least) one spot from the Isle of Skye. Claimed by some to be the world’s most beautiful island, Skye is an absolute hotbed of photography locations, and the Fairy Pools are up there with the best. These crystal-clear blue pools, framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Cuillin Mountains, are a dream for any landscape photographer. The walk to the pools is relatively easy, providing numerous opportunities to capture the abundance of waterfalls and vibrant, natural colours. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds as it can get really busy here by Scotland’s standards. I’d definitely recommend a wide angle lens!

Paid parking here

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, featuring a small waterfall cascading into a clear pool, set against a backdrop of mist-covered, dark mountains and green hills. — *The gorgeous blue-toned Allt Coir’ a’ Mhadaidh leads up perfectly to Sgùrr an Fheadain and misty days only help to add atmosphere! |* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* *| 39mm, 1/3sec, F/11, ISO64*

Photographer in an orange jacket adjusting a tripod near the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, with misty mountains and a small waterfall in the background. — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Paramo Alta III Waterproof Jacket* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

4. Luskentyre, Isle of Lewis and Harris.

So, whilst we’re on the subject of Scottish islands, let’s head over to one of my favourite photography locations on the Isle of Lewis and Harris, Luskentyre Beach. Situated on the incredible Isle of Harris, this is a renowned stunner of a spot for photographers and quite literally can be seen as a photographer’s pilgrimage! Consistently ranked among the continent's finest beaches, this absolute heaven offers everything you could want from a coastal photography location. With its vast stretches of sandy shores, it provides an ideal setting to capture long exposure shots. Looking back towards the North Harris hills, you'll be greeted by a stunning vista of turquoise waters lapping upon the golden sands. The contrasting colours, bathed in the warm glow of the evening sun, create a truly special sight. Luskentyre Beach is, simply put, an absolute haven for photographers and arguably the best location in the whole of the UK. I’m going to say it again - a must visit! P.S. don’t forget about the sand dunes behind the beach, they make great foreground subjects for your landscape photographs!

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris, with gentle waves washing onto the sandy shore, distant hills under a partly cloudy sky during sunset. — *I used my* *ND filters* *again to capture the milky waves as they drifted away from my tripod |* *Nikon D7200* | *Nikon 16-35mm* *| 16mm, 2 sec, F/7.1, ISO64*

Photographer in a red jacket and knit hat setting up a tripod on Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, with waves gently rolling onto the sandy shore and mountains in the distance. — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon D7200* | *Nikon 16-35mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Tripod Ball Head* | *NiSi Polarising Filter* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

5. Glen Trool, Dumfries and Galloway.

Scotland is a vast country with diverse landscapes and what’s incredibly important to note? It’s not all about the Highlands! This brings us on nicely to the wonderful Glen Trool in south-west Scotland. This fruitful photography location has plenty to offer - magical woodlands, rivers, some of south Scotland's best hikes - not the mention the glorious Loch Trool too! There's one road that leads deep into the Glen (it's a little bumpy in places so do take care). There are all manner of different walks to suit all abilities - but I'd definitely recommend a walk down through the woods beside Buchan Burn. Head down to the Loch from here for stunning views. The Galloway Forest Park in Dumfries and Galloway is a brilliant spot for photography in general, plenty of time could be spent here with your camera!

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

Aerial view of Loch Trool in Scotland, with calm, reflective water surrounded by wooded areas and rolling hills bathed in warm sunlight. — *A rare image taken using my* *DJI Mini 3 Drone* *overlooking the calm waters of Loch Trool |* *DJI Mini 3* *| 6.72mm | F/1.7 | 1/500sec | ISO200*

Photographer wearing a knit hat and backpack, standing beside a tripod with a camera, overlooking a serene lake in Dumfries and Galloway surrounded by rolling hills under soft sunligh — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Mindshift Backlight 45L Photography Bag* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

6. Loch Maree, Wester Ross.

Right, we’re headed straight back up to the north-west Highlands for number 6, the outrageously beautiful Loch Maree. Now, rather than just being one particular location, Loch Maree is an absolute vast gold mine for landscape photographers. Mountain backdrops, lone Scots Pine trees and loch islands are just some of the subjects on offer. There are plenty of different places to explore both in the car and on foot. The below photograph is a location I found using ordnance survey maps (check out my Scotland Photography Locations eBook for that exact location). The Scots Pine Island with Slioch in the background was an absolute stunner of a find! The parking location provided is a good starting point, however, do head south-east along the A832 (there are plenty of lay-bys to park in) to discover some beautiful collections of Scots Pine trees dotted along the Loch’s shoreline.

Paid parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

View of Loch Maree, Scotland, with a small island of trees in the foreground and the Slioch mountain range in the misty background under a cloudy sky. — *Scots Pine Island’* *looking back to the mighty Slioch across Loch Maree |* *OM System OM-5* | *Panasonic Leica 12-60mm* *| 15mm, 1/800sec, F/3.2, ISO200*

Photographer in an orange jacket and knit hat holding a camera, smiling by the shore of Loch Maree, Scotland, with trees on a small island and mountains in the background." — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Paramo Alta III Waterproof Jacket* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

7. Loch Morlich, The Cairngorms.

Loch Morlich is a true Scottish classic photo spot. It has remarkable accessibility, with ample car parking spaces lining the northern shore, mere seconds away from some of the most amazing photography locations in eastern Scotland. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Loch's north-eastern section, where a delightful surprise awaits - a beach! Yes, you read that correctly. This really is an unexpected ‘coastal’ oasis. For a more immersive experience, consider embarking on a leisurely loop walk around the entire Loch. The approximate 2-hour trek will take you through beautiful pine forests and, as a bonus, it’s mostly flat! The Cairngorms National Park is one of my favourite areas in the whole of Scotland to photograph and it has some of the UK’s best hikes.

Paid parking here

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

Snow-covered rocks leading into Loch Morlich near Aviemore, Cairngorms National Park, with snow-dusted hills and a dramatic, cloudy sky in the background. — Photographing Loch Morlich’s snowy landscape with unique ice patterns and leading lines to the mountain backdrop | *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* *| 16.5mm, 1/320sec, F/11, ISO64*

Photographer in an orange jacket and knit hat holding a tripod, standing beside a blue camper van with its back doors open, in a snowy forested area. — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Mindshift Backlight 45L Photography Bag* | *Rab Mythic Ultra Down Jacket* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

8. Sgùrr an Fhìdhleir, Coigach.

I desperately wanted to include a hike in this list of the Top 10 Photo Spots in Scotland and this is, quite simply, the greatest view I've seen in my life, even as I'm writing this piece now - and it was an absolute joy to photograph. Sgùrr an Fhìdhleir, translated as ‘The Peak of the Fiddler’ sits in the Coigach area of the Scottish Highlands. The hike up to the mountain peak (start at this parking location) isn't ideal - a bit marshy and a bit of a slog, but all worth it for the summit vistas. A great spot for wide angle, panos and long lens photographs alike, this viewpoint really does have it all. The landscape across Assynt from this perspective is truly mind-blowing. I have spent many years hiking in the Lake District in England (check out my top locations from there), but for me Scotland—and this hike in general—is on a completely different level.

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

View over Assynt, Scotland, from Sgùrr an Fhìdhleir, featuring rugged mountains and hills, including Stac Pollaidh, under a cloudy sky. — For this image I used my tripod to photograph a vertical panorama to include the various foreground lochans | *Olympus E-M1 MarkII* | *Panasonic Leica 12-60mm* *| 16mm, 1/4sec, F/5.6, ISO200*

A Nikon D7200 camera with a Nikon 16-35mm lens mounted on a tripod, capturing a mountainous landscape in the background, as seen on the camera's LCD screen." — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon D7200* | *Nikon 16-35mm* | *Olympus E-M1MarkII* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *NiSi Polarising Filter* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

9. Ariundle Ancient Oakwood, Ardnamurchan.

If you have a fondness for ancient woodlands, Ariundle is a peach of a spot. Sitting on the fantastic Ardnamurchan peninsula, this location offers a truly meditative experience. Even without a camera in hand, it's a delight to wander through the old oaks. The landscape is filled with a multitude of ancient trees, probably at their best in autumn. The rushing Strontian river adds an extra layer of interest, leaving you spoilt for choice in terms of landscape photography. As you leave the parking spot, a well-maintained track swiftly leads you into the heart of the ancient woodland. The accessibility is decent, complemented by boardwalk sections that actually heighten the sense of immersion.

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

Ariundle Oak Woodland in Ardnamurchan, Scotland, featuring a stream flowing over rocks, surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation. — *I captured the rushing River Strontian here by slowing down the shutter speed slightly to capture the water’s movement. I used my* *NiSi ND filters* | *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* *| 49mm, 1.3sec, F/14, ISO64*

Photographer in an orange jacket holding a Nikon Z7 camera with a Nikon 24-200mm lens, with trees and greenery in the background. — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Paramo Alta III Waterproof Jacket* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

10. River Coupall Waterfalls, Glen Etive.

These amazing cascades, also called Etive Mòr waterfalls are nestled at the beginning of Glen Etive, just as it begins to fade away from Glencoe. It is one of the premier photography locations in Scotland. Known for its stunning cascades and dramatic mountain backdrop, it offers photographers an epic setting with very little effort. Accessibility is excellent, with the waterfalls located just a minute's walk from the car park, making it an ideal spot for both amateur and professional photographers. The ease of access ensures you can capture the beauty of the falls without a strenuous hike. I’d recommend getting close to the cascades with a wide-angle lens and try out some long exposures to capture the movement of the water.

Free parking here

For more information on this spot, check out my YouTube video where I take you along as I photograph this location.

A waterfall cascading over rocks in Glen Etive, near Glencoe, Scotland, with lush green trees and a towering mountain in the background under a partly cloudy sky. — *These incredible cascades of the River Coupall beneath Buachaille Etive Mòr make for (perhaps) the most compelling photograph in this whole list |* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 14-30mm* *| 16.5mm, 1/320sec, F/11, ISO64*

Photographer in an orange fleece and red cap, setting up a Nikon Z7 camera with a Nikon 14-30mm lens on a tripod near a small waterfall in Glen Etive, Scotland, surrounded by lush greenery. — *Some gear used on this photography shoot:* *Nikon Z7* | *Nikon 24-200mm* | *iFootage Gazelle TC6* | *Paramo Alta III Waterproof Jacket* | *Nikon Remote Shutter* *| Check out all my gear:* *HERE*

Know Before You Go

• Leave No Trace Principles: Remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarising yourself with them before your trip. Help preserve Scotland's natural beauty for future generations.

• Wildlife: Scotland is home to abundant wildlife, including deer, various bird species, and marine life. Always respect the wildlife by observing from a distance and avoiding any actions that could disturb their natural behaviour.

• Safety: Be cautious while exploring, especially near cliff edges and rugged terrain. Accidents can happen, so prioritise safety over getting the perfect shot.

• Seasonal Access: Some roads and paths in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands, may be closed or difficult to access during winter months due to snow and ice. Always check local resources like Traffic Scotland and VisitScotland for the most up-to-date road conditions and possible closures.

• Weather Conditions: Scotland's weather can be unpredictable. Check forecasts regularly and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. Websites like the Met Office provide accurate and up-to-date weather information.

A traditional stone bothy in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by rugged, barren landscape and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky. — A ‘bothy’ in the Scottish Highlands

Last Chance to Get my eBook!

Before you leave, don't miss the opportunity to improve your photography journey in Scotland with my exclusive Scotland: A Landscape Photography Location Guide eBook. This comprehensive guide is your ultimate companion to discovering and capturing the most glorious landscapes Scotland has to offer. Packed with detailed location insights, professional tips, and personal anecdotes, this eBook will transform the way you explore and photograph Scotland.

Why You Need This eBook:

In-Depth Location Details: Discover hidden gems and iconic spots, complete with the best times to visit and photographic techniques—and even whether or not there are toilet facilities at each location!
Personal Experiences: Learn from my firsthand experiences and get inspired by the stories behind each shot.
Professional Tips: Improve your photography with expert advice on gear, composition, and lighting.
Convenient and Accessible: Carry this guide with you on your mobile device for easy access during your travels.

Don't miss out on capturing Scotland's stunning beauty in all its glory. Get your copy now and start your adventure today!

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SCOTLAND - A LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATION GUIDE EBOOK

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