Contact Me

Absolutely incredible... Brides to be, I am telling you, you have to hire Stephanie as your wedding photographer. Stephanie was hands down one of the best people we worked with through the entire wedding process.

Becca & Grant

5 star photographer... we could not recommend Stephanie enough! She was such a wonderful photographer and brought the best vibes and created an amazing gallery for us to look at and remember our special day! Stephanie took time to get to know us and ensured that we were comfortable with the plan and shots we wanted.

Rachel & David

Could not have chosen a better wedding photographer! Stephanie was warm but also laid back and easy going. She was also clearly very organised in the background with her prep work! We loved our photos when we got them, she's managed to capture such intimate moments while still being unintrusive!

Deborah & Ciaran

Default

Your wedding day captured in a creative, storytelling style. My unique approach delivers timeless wedding portraits and candid images without interrupting the flow of the day. Experience a day like no other, with an organised and simplistic approach that puts your love at the heart of every image. A full day's photography with me begins at morning prep, with the excitement and anticipation of the getting ready shots, as well as details and atmospherics to set the scene for your storytelling wedding gallery. Make the most of your wedding reception with quick &amp; easy group shots, great candid moments with your guests, as well as couple portraits that can be split between your afternoon &amp; evening reception. Remember the happiness &amp; joy of your wedding day through a timeless, colourful edit that will bring you right back to the best day of your lives.

Willow Wedding Session (Full Day - Images Only)

An engagement photoshoot will kick start the excitement for your wedding day as we take to the countryside - be it brilliant beaches or the rolling hills in the countryside, wistful woodlands or a sun soaked meadow. Your wedding day captured in a creative, storytelling style. My unique approach delivers timeless wedding portraits and candid images without interrupting the flow of the day. Experience a day like no other, with an organised and simplistic approach that puts your love at the heart of every image. A full day's photography with me begins at morning prep, with the excitement and anticipation of the getting ready shots, as well as details and atmospherics to set the scene for your storytelling wedding gallery. Make the most of your wedding reception with quick &amp; easy group shots, great candid moments with your guests, as well as couple portraits that can be split between your afternoon &amp; evening reception. Remember the happiness &amp; joy of your wedding day through a timeless, colourful edit that will bring you right back to the best day of your lives.

Rowan Wedding Session [Wedding + Engagement]

The Focal Essentials All You Need Plan lets you create a beautiful business website with the power of AI. Create Packages, Pricing pages and Blogs. Make booking easy for your client with Focal's Booking System. 5TB of Gallery Storage.

All You Need (Website + Booking System) Plan

neutral

"I'm so sorry, it's not my poncho," were the first words I spoke to Best Man Peter as he opened the door of Sycamore Cottage on the Arniston House Estate.
On the drive over from my home in Edinburgh, the rain had held off and had given me false hope that maybe the summer deluge that had plagued so many of my July weddings was over. How wrong I was.
The rain beat down heavily on my car as I arrived to the Groom's cottage. After getting partially soaked on my dash to get some ceremony pics before the guests arrived, I wasn't keen to repeat my mistakes. And that's when I saw it, my partner's poncho lying in the backseat. A garment I'd ridiculed for the best part of 5 years.
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width: 512px;" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="fullwidth" data-rt-max-width="512px">
<div id="">&nbsp;</div>
</figure>
Whilst Scottish weddings maybe have a higher chance of rain than in other countries, Ann &amp; Jamie's wedding at Arniston House would prove to be one of the rainiest weddings I've ever attended. But with careful planning, quick decision making and a little bit of luck, the rain would prove to be the least memorable part of their wedding day.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&zwj;
&zwj;

<h2 id="">Groom Preparations</h2>
Arniston House is situated just south of Edinburgh, near Gorebridge, and is surrounded by countryside and fields. It's impressive driveway leads up to the main house, passing several cottages along the way. It was in one of these cottages that groom, Jamie, was getting ready in.
&nbsp;
The atmosphere in the groom's cottage was relaxed, with the boys joking and laughing over their bowtie tying skills, a certain plastic sgian dhu and the oathing stone that Ann &amp; Jamie had picked up on a recent holiday. With only a few short minutes together, we made the most of it and headed outside to the drive way for some relaxed photos together once the rain offered a brief reprieve. The plan was to meet later, before the ceremony, to get all the grooms people together for photos. At least, that was the plan...groomsman Steven apparently didn't get the memo (or more accurately, the bus.)
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center">
<div id=""><img id="" src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/651dc8aecd8d725450a178dd_spacer.gif" alt="" width="auto" height="auto" loading="auto"></div>
</figure>
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center">
<div id="">&nbsp;</div>
</figure>
&nbsp;

<h2 id="">Bridal Preparations</h2>
Ann was getting ready with her bridesmaids and mum on the other side of Arniston Estate in the Gardener's Cottage. &nbsp;The whole estate was lush, leafy green with beautiful trees lining the roads.
Inside the cottage itself was exciting atmosphere, with hair &amp; make up well underway and music playing as everyone gathered in the kitchen, chatting away as makeup brushes and palettes covered the table.
Ann's beautiful wedding dress was from Whistles, and she paired her gorgeous outfit with a stunning cape-veil and statement necklace &amp; earrings.
Each of Ann's bridesmaids helped her get ready. Lindsey was on dress duty, Katie the shoes and Kelly the cape, meaning each bridesmaid could cherish their contribution to helping Ann get ready. As a wedding photographer, these are some of the loveliest moments from bridal preparations and I would always recommend thinking about including this as part of any wedding day.
Another essential part of bridal prep has got to be a first look with a parent. This time we'd planned for two - one with dad, and one with mum. Remarkably, the rain stopped just in time for us to head out to the walled garden behind the cottage for some solo bridal photos and the first of the First Looks with Ann's dad. &nbsp;
It's so important on any wedding day to make time for these photographs. In the rush of getting ready, especially when you've got to travel to your ceremony, it's so easy to miss out on getting photographs of just you in your wedding dress.
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center">
<div id="">&nbsp;</div>
</figure>
&nbsp;

<h2 id="">First Look</h2>
First Looks with me are always natural and the scenes, while staged, are always captured authentically. That means no repetition, no second chances. But it does mean setting them up correctly and talking through what's going to happen.
When Ann's dad, KY, arrived, I talked him through how we'd capture the first look - which involved placing a lot of trust in me, as he'd have to close his eyes as I held his hands and guided him through the gate, across the grass and into position. But it was all worth it for the look his face as he opened his eyes and saw his beautiful daughter as a bride for the very first time.
Complementing his joyful reaction, Ann's mum, Mindy, was overflowing with emotion and love when she turned around to see her daughter in their first look together. I'm not sure there was a dry eye between the three of us at the time. It was a truly special moment for the family, and one I'm sure no one will ever be able to forget.
On wedding days when your mum is often with you as you get ready - and maybe has already seen the dress - it can be so easy to dismiss needing a First Look with mum - but trust me, you'll not regret including these shots in your wedding photography. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width: 799px;" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="fullwidth" data-rt-max-width="799px">
<div id="">&nbsp;</div>
</figure>
&nbsp;

<h2 id="">The Ceremony</h2>
The wedding ceremony was to take place in the stunning Orangery, beautifully decorated by The Daisy Chain florist with a gorgeous floral arch and bright, colourful flowers lining the long aisle. Natural light spilled in through tall windows, allowing for a bright, airy ceremony feel while still being indoors. As I positioned myself at the top of the aisle, Kim &amp; Henny from the Arniston team prepared Ann &amp; her bridesmaids ahead of the ceremony.
With the nerves mounting for Jamie, I got a few laughs from the guests as I straightened his bowtie not once, but twice as he waited for the ceremony to begin.
The Orangery at Arniston has a beautifully long aisle, perfect for photography but maybe not so much for nervous bridesmaids in high heels. At last the moment came when Ann made her grand entrance, and when Jamie turned around they met each other with beaming smiles and laughter.
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"></figure>
&nbsp;

Ann &amp; Jamie's ceremony was beautifully conducted by celebrant Chris Lerpiniere, and began with a retelling the story of how they first met - and more importantly, to his utter embarrassment - how Jamie first introduced himself. "Loan, Jamie Loan. As in bank loan."
The happy couple were seated, facing their guests, as their story was told and Ann's dad and Jamie's mum gave readings. It was a really lovely way for them to feel a bigger part of their wedding ceremony, as so often couples stand and face each other or their celebrant for the whole duration and never get to see their families reactions.Ann &amp; Jamie also chose to have their celebrant bless a circle around them as they exchanged personal vows over their oathing stone. It was a beautiful way to commemorate their love for each other.
During the ceremony, the rain got heavier, dashing our hopes for outdoor confetti. Fortunately for Ann &amp; Jamie, Plan B was already in place so that we could do the confetti shot indoors within the Orangery.
It worked perfectly, and arguably even better as the Orangery has such a gorgeous interior.
&nbsp;

The rain also prevented an outdoor whole guest group shot, so we had to get a little creative with the space we had and a wee step ladder.
As a wedding photographer, I know a whole guest group shot isn't the most fun experience for everyone, but I try to make it entertaining as I line people up and single out the ones trying to hide behind taller people. I like to do a nice formal one as well as a fun one where everyone can throw their arms in the air.
Once these shots were complete, the guests were directed across the lawn to the drinks reception taking place in the marquee.

<h2 id="">Drinks Reception</h2>
As guests gathered under the marquee for fizz and canapes and I was on candid photography mode, the sun broke through the clouds and the rain stopped. After hours and hours of constant, heavy rain, we rushed out to seize the moment and get the family group shots done.
&nbsp;
We also did a little bit of time travel, as groomsman Steven had been so late to the wedding he nearly missed the ceremony and we couldn't get the full shot of Jamie and his groomsmen when we'd planned. So we pretended it was an hour ago and the groomsmen all lined up together for shots that would later be rearranged to earlier in their gallery.
With the rain still holding off, we made the most of our luck and continued straight into newlywed couples portraits, which is not typically something I do immediately after group shots on a wedding as I want my couples to also get to spend time with their guests &amp; enjoy their drinks reception.
&nbsp;
To me, being a wedding photographer is about so much more than taking pictures - it's about ensuring your couple is having the best experience possible, and whilst I could photograph Ann &amp; Jamie for hours on end, I know they want to spend time with their friends &amp; family, to relax and sip some champagne and be present on their wedding day.
Whilst not everyone wants it to rain on their wedding day, as a Scottish photographer, I actually don't mind that much. Blue skies and sunshine are the enemy of any wedding photography, and the natural light after it's been raining can actually provide some of the best lighting opportunities.
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center">
<div id="">&nbsp;</div>
</figure>
&nbsp;

Arniston House and its estate is such a wonderful place for newlywed couples portraits. There's such a variety to the landscape, with woodlands, rolling fields in the background, and of course the gorgeous Arniston House itself.
It's quite unique for an Edinburgh wedding venue as well, offering something distinct from the usual Castles and rustic barns.
For me, I want my couple's wedding photography to feel spontaneous and enjoyable, so that their experience feels unique to them. Capturing Ann &amp; Jamie's love for each other was an effortless task though, as it was just so easy to catch those romantic looks, the laughter and smiles. Newlywed portraits are not only a chance for gorgeous romantic portraits, but to spend a few quiet &amp; preciously private moments together in an otherwise busy day.
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center">
<div id="">&nbsp;</div>
</figure>

<h2 id="">The Speeches &amp; Evening Reception</h2>
The pre-dinner speeches were an emotional rollercoaster for Ann &amp; Jamie, with the couple each making a speech as well as both dads and the best man.
The atmosphere under the canopy was of raucous laughter, highly charged emotional moments and a little bit of heckling from a certain relative. But it was when KY stood up to deliver his speech that Ann could no longer hold back the tears. Her dad's speech was a beautiful tribute to his daughter, whose determination and ambition had brought her to Scotland from her home in Malaysia.
&nbsp;
<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-fullwidth" style="max-width: 799px;" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="fullwidth" data-rt-max-width="799px"></figure>
&nbsp;

After the wedding meal, Ann changed into a gorgeous champagne coloured glitzy dress for the evening reception and kicked off the party with a spectacular first dance with husband Jamie.
Before they launched into their dance, Jamie told me that they were planning just a wee shuffle around the dancefloor, while bridesmaid Katie told me that they had been instructed to join in with the dancing about 30 seconds in.
Well, as their photographer, I've enough experience to know that couples who plan a wee shuffle often only do a first twirl around 30 seconds in, and I'd hate to miss that moment if someone stepped in front of it. So I told Katie to update the instructions - and leave it at least 45 seconds before they joined the happy couple on the dancefloor.

Well I'm so glad I did that because minutes later, I came to realise that Jamie was an absolute liar. A so-called wee shuffle turned out to be a full on choreographed number, &nbsp;with twists, twirls &amp; dips!
It was such a fantastic way to kick off the evening's dancing, with band Bass Rock Ceilidh providing modern rock twists on many of the ceilidh numbers.
These guys really know how to get everyone rocking it out on the dancefloor, and it was so fun to see the Malaysian side learning our traditional dances and throwing themselves into the mayhem that is a Scottish wedding.
During the meal, it had begun to rain again, even more heavily than before - washing out any chance of golden hour couples photography. But the dramatic weather was great for the candid photographs of the dancing, with the stormy clouds above a great contrast to the warm, cosy interior of the marquee.

I didn't want Ann &amp; Jamie to miss out on the evening couples shots though, especially with Ann's gorgeous new dress. So I set up my gear for some creative backlit shots outside once the rain cleared in the evening. The atmosphere was beyond perfect - the temperature reminiscent of late summer European nights just after a thunderstorm. In the distance, fog was rolling in across the fields. Night was setting in, but there was still a brightness in the sky. I always want to end a &nbsp;gallery on a great photograph of the couple, and these were definitely an amazing way to end their day's wedding photography.

One thing I noticed while editing their wedding gallery, was that how little the rain impacted their photographs. Considering how much the rain impacted the day's events - from indoor confetti and delays to certain shots in the morning at the cottage, to my desperate need for a poncho - the gallery barely featured the rain at all. Indeed, you might even think I've exaggerated the amount of rainfall that day!
Maybe that's testament to the beautiful wedding venue of Arniston House, or how stunning Ann &amp; Jamie are as a couple, or how fun the party was, or maybe it's that the best memories are made when you're surrounded by the people that you love.

<h2 id="">Suppliers</h2>
Wedding Venue: Arniston House
Wedding Dress: Whistles
Flowers:The Daisy Chain
Hair &amp; Makeup: Circles Bridal Hair
Celebrant: Chris Lerpiniere (Sonder Celebrant
Kilts: MacGregor &amp; MacDuff
Wedding Band: Bass Rock Ceilidh
Catering:The Pantry (Food) &amp; Majestic Wines (Drinks)

Real Scottish Weddings - Arniston House

<h1 id="">A Fairytale Scottish Castle Wedding</h1>‍I'd met Calynn &amp;&nbsp;Johan a year earlier when they flew over from their home in South Africa to Scotland to view Drumtochty Castle. We snuck in an engagement session in Roslin Glen, near Edinburgh. It was clear from the second they stepped in front of the camera that they were naturals. I was super excited to see what they’d be like on their wedding day!‍<figure class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0f126542a7a80b01b5cf7_calynn%26johannes_prewedding-73.jpg" loading="lazy"></div></figure>‍Fast forward a year later, and Calynn &amp; Johan’s wedding day at Drumtochty Castle had finally arrived. On a day that promised rain, there wasn’t a single drop all day. As I drove along the lush driveway, the turrets of Drumtochty Castle peaked through the leaves.‍‍&nbsp;<h3 id="">Morning Prep &amp; Getting Ready Shots</h3>&nbsp;Inside the bridal suite, Calynn was getting her hair &amp; make up done alongside her bridesmaids. She raced towards me for a hug as I arrived, excited and glowing with happiness. The dress flowed down to the floor from its hanger –a stunning ivory satin fabric, matched perfectly with a tiara, and of course white trainers. Calynn eagerly showed me the ring she’d had secretly made for Johan. It was designed to match Calynn’s engagement ring, which was inspired by Lord of the Rings.&nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ed27fbd92b48aea6897b_calynn%26johannes-21.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍Upstairs in the best man’s room the boys had gathered, with Johan calm &amp;collected. We cracked open the whisky for some cool shots, and then I was going to allow them a few more minutes before we headed out into the grounds for some more informal group photos. Before we did, I asked best man Frikkie for the rings – we both knew that one of them was a decoy ring, and that downstairs the real ring was waiting. But when Frikkie looked me in the eye with a slight panic, I knew something was up. Next moment, Johan is proudly telling me his secret plans – that he’d had a wedding band made for himself as a surprise to Calynn. <figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ed4613d8608d93fcef4f_calynn%26johannes-59.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍‍It took everything I had not to burst into laughter and keep a straight face, I asked Frikkie to step outside with me to talk briefly about the ceremony he'd be conducting so as not to arouse suspicion. When we were safely out of earshot, we immediately erupted into laughter.Calynn found the whole thing hilarious, but decided to go ahead with her surprise, and for us all to let Johan think that he’d be the one with the surprise. So we carried on as normal and until the ring exchange Johan was completely clueless.<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ed9a0fa3e276ed299b0b_calynn%26johannes-197.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure> Calynn looked stunning as she stepped into her dress and became the bride. We did a quick first look with her dad and got some bridal party photos on the stairs before we parted ways. The bridal party would be heading around the back of the castle, while I stepped out the front door and into the ceremony.&nbsp;<h3 id="">Outdoor Wedding Ceremony in Scotland</h3>‍Weeks ago, Calynn had decided to go with an outdoor ceremony in front of the castle itself. &nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0edb3f86c06c2aaf473d7_calynn%26johannes-313.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍Their ceremony was full of laughter, with the couple each taking the time to declare their love for one another, as well as anecdotes on how they met and their hopes for the future. &nbsp;And when it came to the ring exchange, Johan’s stunned look of confusion made the surprise all the better. &nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0edccca3f080bff663d9f_calynn%26johannes-390.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍We finished the ceremony with a confetti exit and then a whole guest group shot in front of the castle before heading in for the cake cutting. Johan was far too excited to be cutting the cake with a sword, and actually licked the blade of chocolate – much to his new wife’s embarrassment.‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65573aaf0668545f7f8ae29f_calynn%26johannes-441.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>&nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ee03951026661f59be97_calynn%26johannes-481.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>The drinks reception was held inside, with cupcakes and canapes. We raced through the group shots, before I took Calynn &amp; Johan out around the grounds for my favourite part of any wedding day: couples portraits.‍Drumtochty Castle is beautiful, but it’s nothing compared to its grounds. The terrace walkway, the woodland path, and the small loch with its jetty, bridge and tiny island – we loved every minute of their couples portraits. And we had the perfect lighting –with dappled sunlight coming through the leaves in the woodland and illuminating them later by the water.‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ee1c807a41866ce6baca_calynn%26johannes-590.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍&nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ee36e687111a1b75bad8_calynn%26johannes-613.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ee49af267242170293ad_calynn%26johannes-656.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure><h3 id="">Wedding Breakfast &amp; Evening Reception</h3>&nbsp;The setup in the ballroom was simply stunning, with its tall arched windows stealing the show. The happy couple opted for a sweetheart table, with two empty chairs either side of them. At the end of the speeches, they invited their guests to take a seat with them throughout the meal to chat with them. It was a lovely way of having the best of both worlds – an intimate meal with just your partner, as well as having the chance to speak with your friend &amp; family. ‍‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ee820d5a07093c18dad0_calynn%26johannes-769.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>&nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ee9a415b32d1fedbeb27_calynn%26johannes-817.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍After the meal, we took a photo of Calynn &amp; Johan with each of the tables. Rather than do this during the meal, we had planned beforehand to do this in one of the other reception rooms. The groomsmen and bridesmaids helped rally all the people at each table up and we rifled through them.‍‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65aa75d7254b985b7f9319d2_calynn%26johannes-876.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>&nbsp;<h3 id="">Choreographed First Dance</h3>&nbsp;Calynn &amp; Johan had worked with a dance teacher local to them to choreograph their first dance –another surprise for guests. They opted to have a practice in the ballroom before their official first dance, as this would be their first time dancing in their wedding attire.‍‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65573b46600f94f88cdeec95_calynn%26johannes-978.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>&nbsp;Their guests were truly stunned at their routine, which ended in a dip-kiss. And with that, the evening reception began with guests taking to the dancefloor. For some reason, ABBA was a massive hit that got everyone up and dancing.&nbsp;<h3 id="">Creative Wedding Photography</h3>&nbsp;We chose to end their wedding photography at Drumtochty Castle with some creative backlit shots. First, we headed straight down to the loch again to get some brilliant reflections in the water.‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ef500b69209a53f2e329_calynn%26johannes-1086.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍‍<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ef631879e872534b1261_calynn%26johannes-1090.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍As we returned to the castle, I told them their next shots would be inspired by Lord of the Rings – a reference that they absolutely loved.&nbsp;<figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/651c7cfee7b269ba1f9e1fa5/65c0ef761d2c3ac1b96add29_calynn%26johannes-1125.jpg" loading="lazy" width="auto" height="auto" alt="" id=""></div></figure>‍‍Above, the stars sparkled overhead: a perfect reflection of Calynn &amp; Johan’s portrait below. &nbsp;Calynn &amp; Johan’s wedding day at Drumtochty Castle was one of my favourites from 2023. As a wedding photographer, it was a dream location with an absolutely beautiful couple. The atmosphere of the venue combined with the happiness and laughter throughout the day, made this Scottish-South African wedding truly special. ‍‍‍

Real Scottish Weddings - Drumtochty Castle

Let me tell you a story set on a cold, crisp October day, with golden Autumnal sunlight, bright blue skies and the vibrant cobbled streets of Edinburgh's Old Town. The Signet Library is one of the most luxurious wedding venues in Edinburgh. Nestled in the heart of the Royal Mile, it's a hidden gem if you aren't familiar with it. A beautiful, yet unassuming entranceway hides a stunning staircase and a library like no other. With natural light falling beautifully through the tall windows that flank either side, the lower library is truly spectacular, but it's the upper library that will truly take your breath away.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

This story begins at Fraser Suites, with Rosie and her bridesmaids getting ready in the morning with a delicious graze board of waffles, strawberries and pastries, champagne and stunning views of Edinburgh. Rosie's dress was sparkling in the sunshine. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation as hair &amp; make up were well underway.
&nbsp;
When the moment came to pop the champagne, Rosie's sister commented on how her bottle exploded with fizz on her own wedding day - well of course that sealed fate and seconds later a new family tradition began. The girls were beautiful in matching pyjamas and freshly topped up glasses. Rosie chose a gorgeous pearl detailed hairband to match her dress, which caught the light almost as beautifully as her oceanic blue eyes.
&nbsp;
A hop step &amp; a jump over to The Signet Library, and John and his groomsmen were waiting for their turn for photos. We took advantage of the lower library for photos, with its stunning backdrop of bookcases and old, dusty books from eons past. After a few relaxed &amp; fun shots with the boys, I was back over to Fraser Suites for the final getting ready shots with Rosie. As her mum zipped up the back of her dress and her veil now in place, she was absolutely glowing with excitement. Her golden curly locks perfectly complemented the soft sparkles of her dress and headpiece. When her dad entered for the big reveal, he rushed over for a big hug.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The ceremony itself was to take place at St Giles Cathedral, with its huge vaulted blue ceilings, and impressive stonework. It's truly an architectural wonderland in itself, and for a wedding venue it's a magical backdrop. Rosie entered with her father on her arm, and when John's eyes met his future wife, he melted with happiness. Rosie &amp; John married in a beautiful ceremony, with natural light streaming down through the stained glass windows and pouring golden light into the cathedral. As they exited as husband &amp; wife they were beaming with pure joy.
&nbsp;
Outside a crowd had gathered, awaiting the bride's arrival. We took a entire guest group shot on the steps outside the Cathedral before the kicking off the drinks reception in The Signet Library. where the grandeur of the venue was complemented by the warmth of the celebration.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

As I reverted back to candids and wove through the room to snap photos of the guests mingling, I spotted the illustrator that Rosie &amp; John had hired to draw pictures of their guests. It was such a fabulous idea for entertainment, and I was super impressed at how quickly she was able to draw each set.
&nbsp;
It wouldn't be an Edinburgh city centre wedding without a trip to Victoria Street for couples portraits. As we headed out into the cold, crisp October afternoon, golden light streamed from the heavens. We took a walk down the busy cobbled street, but also found a few moments of privacy at the edge of Riddles Court and once again in the arches of Parliament Square. Their newlywed couples portraits took in all the architectural wonders of Edinburgh's Old Town, perfect for a romantic backdrop in which to celebrate their love.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Upstairs, their wedding breakfast awaited them with round tables adorned with colourful florals &amp; candles amidst the truly stunning interiors of the upper library. Piped to their seats, the happy couple were met with huge applause as they were announced in. The speeches began immediately, beginning with father of the bride then to John for a heartfelt &amp; hilarious speech, and finally to best man Liam who more than lived up to expectations with embarrassing stories of John. They ended on an emotional note, with Rosie reciting a poem that brought both laughter &amp; tears.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The evening reception began with a magician entertaining the guests with his tricks and sleight of hand. The videographer and I were treated to some of his work over the break - I'm still not sure how he got Barry's wedding ring in that sealed envelope!
&nbsp;
As night fell, I took Rosie &amp; John out for some special backlit shots along the Royal Mile. I always love setting these up - and there were gasps of awe from passing tourists as they saw Rosie and her dazzling dress. Back inside, we then used the grand staircase and some creative lighting for some of my favourite shots from throughout the whole wedding day.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

After the cake cutting in the lower library, people made their way upstairs to be entertained by the band Bleeker for an evening of ceilidh dances and fun covers. Rosie &amp; John excelled on the dancefloor - and I even spotted a few of my photography posing tricks from their engagement session incorporated into their dance moves. Their guests raced to join them on the dancefloor, throwing their arms in the air to the beat and swinging each other around for the first of the ceilidh dances.
&nbsp;
It was a day of love, laughter and happiness that Rosie &amp; John will never forget: two beautiful souls in a stunning city celebrating their love for one another.
&nbsp;
The Suppliers
&nbsp;
Venue: St Giles Cathedral &amp; The Signet Library
Dress: Rachel Scott
Makeup: Rae Mathieson Bridal
Video: WN Films
Flowers: Rose and Ammi Flowers
Band: Bleeker
Illustrator: Anna Guajardo
Magician: Jim the Magician
&nbsp;