This Buachaille Etive Mòr family photoshoot took place in one of the most iconic landscapes in the Scottish Highlands, with the dramatic backdrop of Buachaille Etive Mòr rising above the valley in Glencoe.
The family had travelled from Dubai to explore Scotland during their autumn holiday. Like many of my international clients, they have a lovely tradition of organising a photoshoot during their travels so they can document their adventures together.
With two children aged seven and eleven, the goal was simple: keep the session relaxed and natural while enjoying the scenery around Glencoe.
A Meaningful Trip to Scotland
For this family, the journey to Scotland was about more than simply visiting a new country. It marked an important milestone in the mother’s professional journey toward engineering chartership, making the trip particularly special.
Moments like this are exactly why families often choose to document their travels with professional photos. The images become a reminder not only of the place itself but also of the story behind the trip.
Years later, these photographs will bring them back to the mountains of Glencoe and the memories created during their time in Scotland.
When the Highland Weather Surprises You
Just days before the photoshoot, heavy rain and strong winds moved through the Highlands as Storm Amy passed across Scotland. Naturally, the family was a little worried about how the weather might affect the session.
The weather in the Highlands can change quickly, especially around Glencoe.
Fortunately, the day of the shoot turned out completely different. Blue skies appeared above the mountains, and bright sunlight shone across the valley, creating beautiful conditions for exploring and photographing the landscape.
Buachaille Etive Mòr Family Photoshoot Location in Glencoe
Buachaille Etive Mòr is one of the most recognisable mountains in Scotland and easily one of the most photographed locations in the Highlands. The famous roadside viewpoint along the A82 offers a dramatic view of the mountain rising sharply from the valley floor.
There are several small spots around this area that provide slightly different perspectives of the mountain, which means you can easily spend an hour here exploring different compositions without travelling anywhere else.
Just a short walk from the main viewpoint you will also find small waterfalls that photograph beautifully, especially after rain when the water flow is stronger. For those who are a bit more adventurous, it is possible to step onto rocks near the falls which creates a completely different angle for photos. From there, drone photography can also reveal stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains from above.
Because it is so easy to access, this location has become very popular with visitors exploring Glencoe. It works particularly well for maternity, couples and family sessions thanks to the variety of backdrops available within a very short distance.
For family photos, the wide open landscape and dramatic mountain backdrop create a setting that feels both powerful and peaceful at the same time.
Exploring a Few Iconic Spots Around Glencoe
After starting the session near Buachaille Etive Mòr, we continued exploring a few other beautiful viewpoints nearby in Glencoe.
One stop included the area near Altnafeadh along the A82, where the famous white cottage sits beneath the mountains. This small building, often photographed with Buachaille Etive Mòr rising behind it, has become one of the most recognisable scenes in the Highlands.
We also briefly stopped near the viewpoint overlooking the dramatic ridges of the Three Sisters of Glencoe. Even a short visit there offers incredible views across the valley and adds variety to a family session in the area.
Because these locations are all relatively close to one another, it’s easy to combine several spots during a single photoshoot, creating a collection of images that showcase different sides of the Glencoe landscape.
A Relaxed Family Session in the Highlands
With plenty of open space around us, the session naturally felt relaxed rather than staged. The kids quickly settled into the experience, exploring the surroundings while we moved between a few nearby viewpoints.
This approach allows moments to unfold naturally, which often leads to the most genuine photographs.
Rather than focusing on perfect poses, the goal is always to capture real interactions between family members and the feeling of being together in such an incredible place.
Kind Words From the Family
“Shem guided us to breathtaking spots and made the entire experience effortless. He captured candid moments that truly reflect our family’s joy, and these photographs will remain a lasting remembrance of our time in Scotland.”
Review originally shared on Google.
Planning Your Own Family Photoshoot in Glencoe
If you are visiting the Scottish Highlands and would love natural family photos during your trip, Glencoe offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland.
I photograph families across the Highlands including Glencoe, Loch Lomond and other scenic locations that work beautifully for relaxed outdoor sessions.
You can find more information about family photography sessions
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You may also enjoy seeing this session photographed near Loch Etive
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