Sunrise on Calton Hill

Calton Hill at sunrise is one of the best views in Edinburgh, and you’ll usually have it almost to yourself. This private session takes advantage of the softest light of the day, with the Old Town skyline and the Castle behind you as the sun comes up.

Why sunrise?

At sunrise the light is soft and warm, the hill is quiet, and the city below is just waking up. It’s the best time for portraits, and the photos feel calm and special in a way that midday shots never do.

What happens on the session

We meet at the bottom of the Calton Hill steps and walk up together in the half-light. Then we work our way round the hill as the sun rises:

• The Dugald Stewart Monument, with the Old Town and the Castle behind.
• The National Monument, the unfinished “Parthenon”, for something more dramatic.
• The views east towards Arthur’s Seat as the first light hits it.

Planning a proposal?

Calton Hill at sunrise is one of the most romantic places in the city to propose. Get in touch before you book, and we’ll plan the exact spot, the timing and where the photographer waits, so it stays a complete surprise.

What’s included

• Help choosing the best date and time for the light
• A private session for you and your partner, family or friends
• A set of edited photos in a private online gallery

Good to know

• Sunrise times change through the year, from very early in midsummer to around 8.40am in midwinter. We’ll confirm the exact meeting time for your date.
• It’s windy on the top. Bring a warm layer, even in summer.
• In bad weather, we’ll move your session to another morning.