The Esplanade

Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline from atop its volcanic crag. Here at the Esplanade you can view the floodlit castle entrance at eye level from this historic Parade Ground area that has been in use for hundreds of years. Today the busy Esplanade area is generally open to the public, with ticketed access to the castle taking place closer to the gate. The Esplanade hosts the Edinburgh Military Tattoo each summer and a large stadium seating area restricts access to the site and dramatically changes the area.

This image is taken during blue hour after sunset (outwith the Military Tattoo months), when the warm floodlights on the stone castle façade balance against the last traces of light in the sky. A clear evening keeps a richer blue glow low behind the castle and a tripod is non-negotiable for a minute-long exposure. It’s possible of course to achieve this shot with a shorter exposure, but remember you may well have people in the frame, and the longer the shutter is open, the greater the chance they will disappear from the image. A standard wide lens is enough to allow breathing room and space in the composition which gives the castle greater presence.