This after-wedding photo session took us to one of my favourite parts of East Lothian — the beautiful coastline around Tantallon Castle, with its open landscape, dramatic cliffs and views across the sea towards Bass Rock.

I had already photographed this lovely couple’s wedding at The Caledonian in Edinburgh city centre. Their wedding day brought typical Scottish weather and very little sunshine, so afterwards they decided to head to the coast for a relaxed portrait session. This time Scotland gave us a beautifully sunny day.

The area around Tantallon Castle is a wonderful location for couple photography. You have the sea, long grass, open countryside and incredible views towards Bass Rock, all within a relatively small area. I love photographing people in places like this because the landscape becomes part of the photographs rather than simply a background.

Although this particular shoot was an after-wedding session, the East Lothian coast works equally well for engagement and couple photo sessions, as well as relaxed family photography. There is plenty of space to walk, explore and photograph naturally without making the session feel overly posed.

Living in East Lothian, I’m particularly drawn to this part of Scotland. Not necessarily for swimming! — but for the sound of the sea, windswept landscapes, rugged coastline and the constantly changing light. From Tantallon and North Berwick to the quieter beaches and countryside further along the coast, there are plenty of beautiful locations for natural portraits.

If you're planning an East Lothian wedding, a couple session while visiting Scotland, or simply want some relaxed photographs of your family outdoors, I can help you choose a location that suits you and the kind of photographs you would like.

Planning a couple or family photo session in East Lothian? Get in touch