One of the greatest joys of being a family photographer in Edinburgh is capturing special moments that show the love and connection between parents and their children. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Katie and David with their daughter Bella, who has just turned two years old, in the stunning grounds of Lauriston Castle.
Set against the backdrop of this historic Edinburgh landmark, the photoshoot was full of laughter, play, and tender family moments that reflect exactly what family photography is all about—documenting memories that can be cherished for a lifetime.
Ready to create unforgettable memories?
Why Lauriston Castle is Perfect for Family Photography in Edinburgh
When families ask me where the best places are for a photoshoot in Edinburgh, Lauriston Castle always comes high on the list. With its impressive 16th-century architecture, beautifully kept gardens, and peaceful woodland paths, it offers endless opportunities for capturing both posed and candid photographs.
Unlike busier locations in the city centre, Lauriston Castle provides a calm and relaxed atmosphere—perfect for young children who might get overwhelmed in crowded areas. The wide lawns, shaded woodland areas, and the castle itself all provided us with natural backdrops that worked wonderfully for Katie and David’s session.
If you’d like to explore more options for outdoor photography, I’ve written a full guide on the best spots in Edinburgh for family photoshoots.
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Meeting Katie, David, and Bella
Katie and David are a warm, loving couple, and it was easy to see just how much joy their little girl Bella brings into their lives. At two years old, Bella was full of energy, curiosity, and the cheeky expressions that parents know so well.
Family photoshoots with toddlers can sometimes feel unpredictable, but that’s also what makes them so special. Children of this age are full of personality, and rather than aiming for “perfect” posed pictures, I love focusing on capturing natural moments—smiles, cuddles, and even the concentration on Bella’s face as she played with her toys.
Starting with a Picnic on the Lawn
We began the photoshoot with a picnic setup on the castle lawns. Katie and David laid down a blanket, and Bella sat happily between them with her toys, crayons, and a cuddly giraffe that clearly goes everywhere with her.
The relaxed setting allowed the family to interact naturally, without feeling like they had to pose for the camera. These are often my favourite moments to capture—where parents can simply enjoy time with their child while I work quietly in the background.
The castle, standing proudly in the distance, added an elegant touch to the photographs, creating a balance between candid family fun and timeless portraits that they can treasure forever.
Candid Moments and Little Details
One of my favourite parts of this session was capturing the little details that tell the story of Bella at this age. Her tiny hands holding crayons, the way she looked curiously at the paper while drawing, and the gentle way Katie and David encouraged her as she played.
These moments may feel small in the present, but they become priceless memories as children grow older. As a parent myself, I know how quickly the toddler years pass, which is why family photography is such an important investment—it freezes these fleeting moments in time.
Exploring the Woodland Paths
After the picnic, we moved into the shaded woodland areas around Lauriston Castle. This part of the photoshoot gave a different mood—more intimate and cosy, with the soft light filtering through the trees.
I captured some beautiful portraits of the three of them together, with Bella being held in her parents’ arms. The quiet surroundings helped create a calm atmosphere, and the photos reflect that sense of closeness and warmth.
For families who are considering where to have their own photoshoot, woodland paths and nature trails often provide the perfect balance of shade, texture, and colour. They also give children the freedom to explore, which often results in genuine, joyful expressions.
If you’re curious about another outdoor option, I’ve also written a blog about whether Arthur’s Seat is a good place for family photography.
Capturing Family Portraits on the Steps
To finish the session, we moved to the stone steps near one of the garden buildings. This spot gave us a slightly more structured setting, where Katie and David could sit comfortably with Bella between them.
The steps created a natural frame for the portraits, allowing me to capture a mixture of smiling, relaxed poses as well as candid moments where Bella was playing with her giraffe. Some of my favourite images from the day came from this part of the session—showing the love and laughter that this family shares.
Why Family Photography Matters
As a photographer, I believe family photography is more than just taking pictures—it’s about creating a legacy of memories that can be passed down through generations. For Katie and David, these photographs of Bella at two years old will serve as a reminder of this precious stage of her life.
In years to come, Bella will be able to look back and see just how loved she was, how her parents laughed and played with her, and how her childhood was filled with warmth and care.
That’s why I always encourage families in Edinburgh to book a photoshoot—not only to capture beautiful images but also to preserve the emotions and memories that make family life so special.
Planning Your Own Family Photoshoot in Edinburgh
If you’re considering booking a family photoshoot, here are a few tips based on my experience with Katie, David, and Bella at Lauriston Castle:
- Choose a meaningful location – Whether it’s a historic site like Lauriston Castle, a scenic viewpoint like Arthur’s Seat, or a hidden park in your neighbourhood, pick a place that feels comfortable and special to your family.
- Keep things relaxed – Children, especially toddlers, may not always want to pose for the camera. The best photos often come from natural interactions—playing, cuddling, or simply walking together.
- Bring along favourite toys or props – Bella’s cuddly giraffe added personality and comfort to the session. These small touches make your photos unique to your family.
- Dress comfortably but coordinated – Neutral tones, soft colours, or simple outfits often work best against Edinburgh’s natural backdrops.
- Trust the process – My job is to guide the session, but the magic happens when families let go and simply enjoy the time together.
Final Thoughts
It was a real pleasure photographing Katie, David, and little Bella at Lauriston Castle. Their session was filled with love, laughter, and the kind of natural moments that truly reflect the heart of family life.
If you’re looking for family photography in Edinburgh, I’d love to help you create your own timeless memories. Whether you’d prefer the historic charm of Lauriston Castle, the dramatic scenery of Arthur’s Seat, or one of the many hidden gems across the city, I can help you choose the perfect location for your family photoshoot.
To see more inspiration, make sure to check out my guides on the best spots in Edinburgh for family photoshoots and whether Arthur’s Seat is a good place for family photography.
If you’re ready to book your session, feel free to get in touch through my family photography page. Let’s capture those little moments today, so you and your children can treasure them for years to come.
