Scotland Family Photographer: The Best Choice for Memorable Moments
Scotland is a land of breathtaking beauty, offering stunning backdrops for your family photoshoot. From the majestic peaks of the Highlands and the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond to enchanting castles and charming historic villages, there are countless incredible locations to create unforgettable family portraits. Whether you’re wandering the vibrant streets of Glasgow’s historic quarters, exploring the charm of St. Andrews, or taking in the awe-inspiring waterfalls and lochs, Scotland offers a wealth of picture-perfect settings.
As an experienced Scotland family photographer, I specialize in capturing your family’s unique moments against these spectacular landscapes. I’ve had the privilege of working with families from around the world – including the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Poland, and more – bringing their Scottish adventure to life through vibrant, heartfelt images.
Being a father of seven, I know how to make kids feel comfortable, ensuring that your photoshoot is relaxed and filled with genuine smiles. Whether it’s just your immediate family or a large extended group, I bring a lighthearted and fun approach so everyone enjoys the experience.
Scotland’s weather is just as dynamic as its scenery – and that’s part of the adventure! Whether it’s sunshine, mist, or a bit of rain, every condition adds a unique touch to your photos, making them even more magical. Dancing in the rain or basking in golden light, we’ll embrace the moment and create something truly special.
Scotland isn’t just a destination – it’s a stunning canvas for your family’s story. Imagine your loved ones in front of a centuries-old castle, strolling through lush green glens, or laughing together on a windswept beach. I’ll work with you to plan a session that beautifully captures your family’s love and connection, framed by Scotland’s incredible scenery.
I invite you to browse my portfolio and see the magic we can create together. If you’re planning a family trip to Scotland or simply want to celebrate your loved ones with breathtaking images, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Let’s capture moments you’ll treasure forever!
Recent Family Sessions in Scotland
Why choose Scotland for a family photoshoot?
Scotland is an ideal destination for families looking to capture unforgettable moments in their photoshoots. Here are several reasons why Scotland is the perfect backdrop for your fun adventure:
Breathtaking Scenery
Imagine your family’s smiles set against the backdrop of Scotland’s awe-inspiring landscapes. From the rugged majesty of the Highlands to the tranquil beauty of its lochs, places like Glencoe and Loch Lomond offer an endless canvas for stunning photography. Your family’s portraits will be more than just pictures; they’ll be a celebration of nature’s grandeur.
Historic Backdrops
Add a touch of magic to your family photos with Scotland’s historic castles. Whether it’s the imposing presence of Edinburgh Castle or the fairy-tale allure of Kilchurn Castle, these locations provide a unique charm that turns simple photos into stories of adventure and legacy.
Golden Light and Dramatic Skies
Scotland’s long summer evenings give you the best of both worlds – extra time to capture that perfect shot with the golden hour’s soft, warm light. And with sunsets that color the sky in dramatic hues, your photos will have a glow that’s truly special.
Weather Wonders
Embrace the whimsy of Scottish weather. While it might be unpredictable, it’s this very unpredictability that can lead to some of the most dynamic and memorable photos. Light rain, mist, or breaking clouds can add an element of drama or serenity to your shots, making them uniquely yours.
Cultural Experience
Dive into the heart of Scottish culture during your photoshoot. We’ll weave in elements like tartan, perhaps a bagpipe tune in the background, or even a traditional dance. It’s not just about the photos; it’s about giving your family a taste of Scotland’s rich cultural tapestry.
Secluded Beauty
Step away from the well-trodden paths and find your family’s special moment in Scotland’s quieter corners. We’ll take you to spots like the “Rest and Be Thankful” viewpoint, where the stunning vistas of the Arrochar Alps meet the tranquility of nature. Here, away from the crowds, your photos will capture the serene beauty of Scotland, with each image reflecting.
In summary, Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, iconic locations, rich cultural heritage, sense of adventure, and ever-changing weather create the perfect setting for a unique and memorable family photoshoot. Whether exploring dramatic mountains, historic castles, or peaceful lochs, Scotland offers an unforgettable backdrop for capturing genuine family moments.
Family photo session prices
DELUXE – £460
- 2h session
- It contains a set of 45 high resolution digital images, fully edited and ready to print (digital download from the final gallery which allows purchasing additional products like frames, canvases, albums, calendars, prints, etc. from the best photo labs in the UK)
- No travel fees for photo shoots 30mins from Glasgow
SUPERIOR – £360
- 1.5h session
- It contains a set of 30 high resolution digital images, fully edited and ready to print (digital download from the final gallery which allows purchasing additional products like frames, canvases, albums, calendars, prints, etc. from the best photo labs in the UK)
- No travel fees for photo shoots 30mins from Glasgow
STANDARD – £270
- 1 hour session
- It contains a set of 15 high resolution digital images, fully edited and ready to print (digital download from the final gallery which allows purchasing additional products like frames, canvases, albums, calendars, prints, etc. from the best photo labs in the UK)
- No travel fees for photo shoots up to 30mins from Glasgow
How it works
This is the process from the enquiry to receiving the gallery. Check out the FAQ or contact us if you still have any questions.
1. Secure your date
By now, you’ve likely browsed my website or social media, catching a glimpse of the unforgettable family memories I’ve had the privilege to capture for others. If you’re feeling inspired to create your own, let’s take the next step together!
First, explore the packages to find one that suits your family best. Then, reach out via the contact form to check my availability or ask any questions. To secure your date, I’ll send over an online client agreement for you to complete and sign.
Once the agreement is submitted, I’ll email an invoice for the booking fee. Once that’s paid, your family’s special session is officially secured, and we can begin planning an unforgettable experience!
2. Let’s plan your session
Planning is half the fun! Let’s start by choosing the perfect location. Whether it’s a scenic spot near your holiday accommodation, a rugged Highland landscape, or a charming village, we’ll find a backdrop that reflects the spirit of your family vacation. My most popular locations are the stunning Glencoe and the picturesque Rest and Be Thankful Viewpoint—both offering breathtaking scenery and unforgettable views.
I’m also happy to travel up to 3 hours from Glasgow to capture your family at iconic or hidden gems around Scotland, ensuring your photos reflect the beauty of your time together. Need help deciding? I can provide recommendations or even explore new places together.
Next, let’s talk outfits. Coordinating your family’s attire will add cohesion and personality to your photos. Opt for complementary colours, and consider the stunning Scottish landscapes when choosing tones. Neutral and earthy colours work beautifully, while a splash of tartan can add a touch of tradition. Above all, choose outfits that make everyone feel comfortable and confident. For more tips, check out the FAQ section below.
You can also bring along personal touches or props that reflect your family’s personality. Whether it’s a picnic blanket, a favourite toy for the kids, or something fun like matching scarves, these details make your session uniquely yours.
3. Day of the session
Your session is all about celebrating your family’s connection and the joy of your time together. Relax and have fun! There’s no need to worry about posing – I’ll guide you through it with simple directions to capture natural and heartwarming moments. Whether it’s the kids playing, everyone laughing together, or a quiet moment shared, the goal is to reflect your family’s unique bond.
Dress comfortably for the weather and terrain, especially if we’re venturing into the Highlands or exploring the coast. Layers are always a good idea in Scotland! Flowy dresses, cozy sweaters, or even traditional kilts can add charm to your family’s photos. Avoid large logos or bold patterns, as these can distract from the overall look.
Remember to embrace the moment – run, play, and laugh. I’ll be there to capture the essence of your family’s holiday, ensuring you’ll treasure these memories for years to come.
4. After the session
A few weeks after our session, I will hand-edit the best images and send you a preview gallery of around 80–100 photographs. You’ll have the opportunity to select your favourites based on your package, purchase additional photos, or even upgrade to include the entire gallery.
You can also choose from a range of add-ons, such as high-quality prints, albums, and frames from the best photo labs. Payment plans are available to make it even easier to create your family’s keepsakes. Please note that your gallery will be accessible once the final payment has been completed.
Your family photos will serve as a timeless reminder of your special time in Scotland – capturing not just how it looked, but how it felt.
Testimonials
What other lovely families have to say!
Amazing!
Amazing photographer who did a fantastic job of capturing beautiful images of our 3-generation family at Glencoe. Highly recommend!
Kim and family
Most Cherished!
Strad Photography captured our family so beautifully. Those pictures are our most cherished family photos. Despite my daughter not being in the best of moods, he managed to make her smile! My son was so happy running around and that joy can be seen in the pictures as well. Can’t wait to travel again just so we can get more pictures in the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
Basma and family
Incredible!
We had an incredible experience with Shem, he was very well prepared with plenty locations to choose from and made it work with our schedule as we were travelling across Scotland. The location was beautiful and Shem was extremely prepared. Worth every penny, the hardest part was choosing from the many photos afterwards as they were all so good!
Spencer and family
Beautiful!
I knew from seeing the Strad Photography website that the photos taken of our family would be special, but they were even better than anticipated. From the initial email to the photo location selection to the final delivery of photos working with Shem was a delight. We had a memorable time taking photos in the gorgeous Highland scenery. And we will cherish these beautiful family photos for years to come. I highly recommend Strad Photography.
Marissa and family
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Frequently Asked Questions
What locations do you recommend for a family photoshoot in Scotland?
Scotland is full of stunning locations for family photography! Some of my most popular spots include Glencoe, Rest and Be Thankful, and Loch Lomond (Balloch Park)—each offering breathtaking scenery and a unique atmosphere. Other fantastic options include, St Andrews, Stirling, the Trossachs, Loch Awe, the Isle of Arran, and Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. If you’re unsure where to go, I’ll happily recommend locations based on your vision, travel plans, and preferences.
What if the weather is bad on the day of our shoot?
Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm! Light rain or mist can add a magical atmosphere to your photos. If the forecast predicts heavy rain or extreme conditions, we can adjust our timing, find sheltered locations, or reschedule if necessary. I always come prepared with backup plans to ensure you get beautiful photos no matter the weather.
How long does a family photoshoot last?
I offer different session lengths to suit your needs. A 1-hour session works well for a single location and smaller families, but it’s not ideal for extended family groups. Longer sessions allow for a more relaxed experience and the opportunity to explore multiple locations—especially in scenic areas like Glencoe, where many stunning spots are just a few minutes apart. If you’re unsure which option is best for your family, I’m happy to help you decide!
What should we wear for our photoshoot?
Be prepared to move around, so it’s important to wear comfortable clothing. The outfits you choose will also impact the overall look and feel of your photographs. I recommend women opt for medium or long dresses rather than trousers, as they capture movement beautifully and generally photograph more flatteringly. Short dresses can be tricky for seated shots, so it’s worth considering this when choosing your outfit. Stick to colours in a complementary palette, such as earthy tones and neutrals. Avoid text, logos, or stripes on your clothes, as they can be distracting. Layering works well for adding variety, and a quick outfit change can be a great idea for younger children. Pinterest is a fantastic source of inspiration if you’re looking for ideas.
Can extended family members join the session?
Absolutely! Whether it’s just your immediate family or a large multi-generational gathering, I love capturing the connections between loved ones. Just let me know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Do you offer candid or posed photography?
I focus on a mix of both! My goal is to capture genuine moments of joy and connection, so I’ll guide you through natural interactions while also capturing a few classic, beautifully composed portraits.
Can we bring props to make the session more personal?
Yes, it can benefit the session and create even more meaningful memories. Things like favourite toys, bubbles, kites, balls – basically anything you like to do together or is important to you.
How long does it take to receive our photos?
You can expect to receive your edited preview gallery within 3–5 weeks. I take great care in editing each image to ensure they reflect the beauty and emotion of your session. I usually share a few sneak peeks on my FB and Instagram a few days after the session.
Do you provide digital images or prints?
I deliver high-resolution digital images in a private online gallery, where you can download your photos and order professional-quality prints, albums, or wall art.
Do you photograph in colour or black & white?
Most of the photographs are in colour but I do love b&w and I deliver a bunch of them. Sometimes a photo just looks best in b&w.
How do we book a session?
Get in touch by using the contact form to find out my available dates or if you have any additional questions. In order to secure your date I require an online client agreement to be filled in and signed (I will email it to you) and a booking fee paid in full (non-refundable).
What if my kids don’t cooperate during the shoot?
As a father of seven, I completely understand! My approach is relaxed and playful, allowing kids to have fun while capturing natural, joyful moments. There’s no pressure — if we need to take breaks or adjust the flow, that’s completely fine!
Can we bring our pets?
Yes! If your furry friend is part of the family, they’re more than welcome to join the shoot. Just let me know in advance so we can choose a pet-friendly location.
We’re visiting Scotland — can you help with location and timing recommendations?
Of course! I’m happy to suggest the best spots based on your itinerary and the season. I can also help with timing to ensure the best lighting and scenery for your shoot.
Do you have insurance?
Yes, I have both public liability and professional indemnity insurance.