The Forth Bridges Sunset

Looking back toward the three Forth Bridges from the rocky shore east of South Queensferry. The floodlit cantilever bridge, completed in 1890 and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an engineering icon and one of the most recognisable structures in Scotland. Built over an 8 year period with over 53,000 tonnes of steel, the bridge is exactly 2467m in length. This view is taken from the shoreline 10-15 mins walk east from parking at Newhalls Road. The shoreline is uneven and slippery, but there are safer and more stable options closer to the road which offer a similar composition with less risk.

Aim for the blue hour after sunset in any season, when the floodlights fire up against a sky still holding colour. A calm day will result in cleaner foreground. Use a long exposure to smooth out moving water and create long reflections. Position yourself carefully so that the towers of the Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing are not obscured. This shot also works in the morning while the east side of the Forth Bridge is illuminated by a rising sun and early morning light. WARNING: the foreshore is uneven and slippery below the tide line. Wear appropriate footwear and carry a torch at night. Never venture out of your comfort zone as the frame looks equally majestic further back.