Castle from the Crags

Taken from the Crags path in Holyrood Park, this cityscape looks west across Edinburgh’s rooftops to a floodlit Edinburgh Castle and the spire of Tolbooth Kirk reaching above the graduated twilight sky. What is most important about the shooting at this specific location along the path is that it is before you are at the highest point of the Crags. This is crucial because you are still below the height of Edinburgh Castle, meaning its outline breaks the horizon and gives the composition far greater presence. The further you ascend along the path the higher you get, thus changing the dynamic of the shot.

This shot works in all seasons and it doesn’t need to be a clear night sky, although this is preferred. During blue hour after sunset the sky still holds colour, and the castle floodlights and city streets come alive. A 150mm+ focal length compresses the layered skyline and remaining below the castle is key to give it a sense of grandeur over the city. Take great care moving around - especially in fading light. All shots are achievable from the paths.