Get picture-perfect shots with the 5 best photographers in Edinburgh!
I’m not exactly a natural in front of the camera, but I love filling my home with snapshots of life’s best moments. Over the years, I’ve worked with some of the best local photographers to capture big milestones.
The best ones have a knack for making even the most staged shots feel effortlessly candid. Thanks to them, I’ve got wedding photos and family portraits I’m happy to display at home.
If you’re looking for a photographer who can put you at ease and bring out your best, these pros in Edinburgh are the ones to call!
How much does it cost to hire the best photographers in Edinburgh?
In Edinburgh, hiring a photographer costs between £150 and £300 for a studio session lasting between 2 and 4 hours. Longer shoots like weddings and events can go up to £500 to £800 or more, depending on the scope.
Fluctuating rates are dependent on the duration of the shoot, location, any travel expenses, or extra equipment or photographers needed.
1. Fern Photography
Address: 2a Broughton Pl
Phone: +447979029740
Business hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Fern Photography was my sister’s top choice for her wedding, and after seeing their work, I can totally see why.
Their style is bright, natural, and relaxed—none of those awkward and overly posed shots. Dan and Matt, the founders, have a knack for bringing in and capturing real moments without making it feel like a photoshoot.
But they don’t just do weddings. Whether you need portraits, branding shots, or event photography, they’ve got you covered. They charge £200 per hour with a two-hour minimum, which is great for short sessions but can unfortunately add up for all-day events.
One thing to keep in mind: they prefer eco-friendly transport, so travel outside Edinburgh might come with extra costs and some planning.
Great attention to detail
“Matt did the photos for our wedding, as well as 2 lots of family photos as our family has grown. He’s a great photographer, taking really beautiful, natural, colourful photos every time. Very good at putting us at ease to get nice relaxed photos. We’ve always had very professional service from Fern, great communication. I highly recommend it!”
– Emma Reid, Google Review
Professional and helpful photographer
“We were very happy having chosen Fern Photography for our wedding photos. The whole experience felt personal, relaxed and well-organised from the start. On the day itself, Matt fitted right in, made everyone feel comfortable and somehow managed to take wonderful photos of a bunch of people who are usually quite shy around a camera. Thanks so much!”
– James Fathers, Google Review
2. Ewan Mathers Photographer
Address: Ewan Mathers – Photographer, The Melting Pot, 15 Calton Rd
Phone: +447941548214
Business hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
If you’re after a wedding photographer who knows his craft, Ewan Mathers is a solid choice. He specialises in weddings, and while it’d be great if he covered other events, his skill in capturing natural, high-quality shots makes up for it.
His packages suit different budgets, with half-day coverage (six hours) at £875. If you’re on a tighter budget, his micro-wedding package starts at £375 for two hours—great for smaller ceremonies.
Ewan’s style is all about natural lighting and candid moments, with minimal editing for an authentic feel. That said, his photos tend to be on the darker side. If that’s not your preference, it’s worth considering.
He’s usually booked up well in advance, so if you’re planning a wedding in the next year, it’s best to secure a slot early. If you like his work, don’t wait. Get in touch before someone else does!
Captures what you ask for
“I contacted Ewan to do a photoshoot for my client, and from start to finish his communication was so consistent and helpful. I told him exactly what I needed from the shoot and when the photos were sent to me he had captured everything I asked for perfectly. My client also commented that he was very lovely and put her at ease. When the opportunity arises I will be using Ewan’s services again.”
– Jenna Baird, Google Review
Gets the job done
“While we only gave Ewan 1 week of notice, he captured our party absolutely perfectly. We’re so thrilled he was able to join us and extremely impressed by how quickly he was able to get the final edits through to us – 3 days! We would highly recommend him as an event photographer. Thank you Ewan!”
– G Packard Barry, Google Review
3. Blue Sky Photography
Address: 6a New Mart Rd
Phone: +441314471100
Business hours: Open 24/7
Blue Sky Photography is a family-run studio led by Niels and Alie Calvert, offering portrait and photography services since 2003.
When I was looking for a studio that specialises in family photography, my parents recommended them. I wanted new portraits of my husband and kids for our home, so I gave them a call without hesitation.
Their portfolio was exactly what I was after—simple, natural, and high-quality. Plus, their experience with kids and newborns was a huge bonus. Thanks to Niels and Alie, getting my little ones to sit still was surprisingly easy!
Their rates are reasonable, with family portrait sessions starting at just £150. This includes a consultation, a studio shoot, and a collection of processed photos.
Since they’re a small team, photo processing can take time. But as they say, good things come to those who wait!
Book early, though. At least two weeks in advance for studio shoots and longer for weddings to be sure.
Makes you feel relaxed and comfortable
“Absolutely delighted with the photos. Ali made us feel so relaxed. We had no idea how it would pan out with a 3 year old but she had such a fun time. They will definitely be photos we will cherish forever. Amazing quality. Highly recommend :)”
– Nadine Sunderland, Google Review
Encouraging and positive
“Love my head and shoulder shots! Niels understood exactly what I wanted. He was so encouraging and positive, and put me at ease when I was getting the photos taken. It was great fun and I am so pleased with the results, which now have pride of place on my website. Thanks Niels! :)”
– Ann Rowe, Google Review
4. Ryan White Photography
Address: 13 Kimmerghame Loan
Phone: +447958320447
Business hours:
Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Ryan White Photography, run by Ryan and his wife Lina, is the go-to if you want photos that feel real—not the stiff, forced-smile kind. Whether it’s a wedding, family shoot, or big event, he’s good at capturing the little moments you didn’t even realise were happening.
He’s got a shelf full of awards from Hitched, Bridebook, and the Scottish Wedding Awards, and after seeing his work at a mate’s wedding, I get why. The guy’s like a photography ninja—everywhere and nowhere all at once, snapping perfect shots without you even noticing.
Ryan’s covered over 500 events across Scotland and beyond, so he knows his way around. He’s not the cheapest, but if you want storytelling over staged smiles and over 20 years of experience, he’s worth it.
His full-day package includes two photographers, unlimited digital downloads, a slideshow, a handbound leather album, and travel within 50 miles of Edinburgh.
Photographers that go above and beyond
“Lina and Ryan are the best husband/wife photography duo my husband and I could have worked with for our Scottish wedding in Edinburgh. Their energy, kindness, sense of humor, and dedication to getting the right shots are only some of the qualities that make them wonderful. I am also big on lighting and editing and both were done so very well that all of our shots bring us so much joy. We happily recommend them for anyone’s big day!”
– Nichole Hinton, Google Review
Clients leave happy
“We worked with Ryan and Lina for our wedding photos and simply cannot recommend them enough! Everything you could ask for in wedding photographers and more – engaging, professional, talented, organized etc. etc. Before the wedding they were prompt and easy to work with and day of it simply felt like having two easy friends along for the ride. Lina also had some helpful day-of tips and tricks and overall both made the day a success – and that’s before mentioning the actual photos themselves! Simply stunning. We were so relaxed with them and they captured our day and our guests in ways such that everyone is still talking about our photography team and how beautiful our photos are. Cannot recommend Ryan White Photography enough!”
– Sarah Rooksberry, Google Review
5. Simon Messer Photography
Address: Grassmarket
Phone: +447490577874
Business hours:
Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Simon Messer has cracked the code by combining photography with guided tours. Think of him as your personal photographer and local guide rolled into one. If you’re keen to capture stunning shots of your trip to Edinburgh, he’s the perfect choice.
He knows exactly where to go, whether you’re after rugged Highland landscapes, historic city streets, or a scenic hilltop view.
He’s happy to trek up Arthur’s Seat with you or take a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile, all while snapping incredible photos along the way.
Now, I get that having a photographer tail you on holiday might feel a bit much, but Simon is no ordinary snap-and-go guy. He’s full of local knowledge, and you’ll walk away not just with great photos but with stories and insights about the places you visit.
Since he personally takes on each shoot and tour, bookings fill up fast—so if you’re interested, best book ahead!
Pays great attention to detail
“What a great experience! This was our first time having a professional photo shoot of a family vacation and it did not disappoint. Simon was very friendly and a pleasure to work with. He knew places that would make great photographs and the results were amazing. I highly recommend Simon for any photographic needs you may have.”
– CL, Google Review
Refined photos
“Simon was awesome! Simon’s expertise and passion for photography were evident throughout the session. He took the time to understand my goals and what I wanted to learn.
I had a fantastic time out in the Old Town of Edinburgh, learning all about manual settings.
Thank you Simon for all the useful tips and tricks you passed on!”
– C Smith, Google Review