Aberdeen & Stonehaven

Hey photography lovers!
Chillinchitra here, back from a whirlwind Scottish adventure! I recently took a mini-trip from Glasgow (Scotland travel) to explore the northeast coast, specifically Aberdeen and Stonehaven, and I'm bursting to share my photographic journey with you. This quick escape, starting on the morning of November 16th and returning to Glasgow on the night of November 17th, was all about capturing the diverse beauty of Scotland – from cityscapes to coastal charm and historical wonders.
My Aberdeen adventure began with a fantastic portrait photoshoot. I met up with a friend who kindly modeled for me, and Aberdeen, the famed Granite City, provided a stunning and unique urban backdrop for portrait photography. We spent the morning exploring the city centre, utilizing the dramatic grey granite architecture to create striking images. Experimenting with light and shadow against this unique cityscape was a photographer's dream! I focused on urban portraits and am thrilled with the results – stay tuned to my portfolio for those images soon!
Later that day, we discovered a true hidden gem within Aberdeen itself: Fittie Island (Footdee). This picturesque fishing village, nestled right in Aberdeen Harbour, is a photographer's paradise. Despite being called an "island," Fittie is actually a charmingly compact community of colourful cottages with a strong maritime heritage. As a travel photographer, I was captivated by the narrow streets, the vibrant houses, and the working harbour. It's a fantastic location for coastal photography and capturing a unique slice of Scottish life. If you're in Aberdeen and seeking unique places to visit, Fittie Island is a must!
As evening descended in Aberdeen, my photographic day wasn't over! I ventured back into the city centre to explore Aberdeen nightlife. The Granite City at night transforms, with city lights reflecting off the grey stone buildings, creating a moody and atmospheric scene perfect for night photography. I focused on capturing the illuminated streets and architectural details, experiencing a different side of Aberdeen's urban energy.
The next morning, November 17th, I embarked on a solo trip south to Stonehaven, a beautiful coastal town just a short bus ride from Aberdeen. Stonehaven immediately charmed me with its picturesque harbour, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil seaside atmosphere. As a landscape photographer, I was drawn to the rugged coastline and the colourful harbour buildings, offering classic Scottish coastal scenes.
The absolute highlight of Stonehaven, and perhaps the entire trip, was my visit to Dunnottar Castle. This iconic Scottish castle, perched dramatically on a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea, is truly breathtaking and a must-see historic site in Scotland. The walk up to Dunnottar Castle itself offers stunning coastal views. Exploring the castle ruins, steeped in history and situated in such a dramatic location, was an unforgettable experience. I spent hours capturing the castle from every angle, focusing on castle photography and landscape photography, with the dramatic sea as a backdrop. For anyone interested in castle ruins and coastal scenery, Dunnottar Castle is an absolute must-visit.
After my Dunnottar Castle photography session, it was time to journey back. I travelled directly from Stonehaven back to Glasgow that night, my memory card full of images and my mind full of incredible Scottish experiences. This mini Scottish break to Aberdeen and Stonehaven was a perfect combination of city photography, coastal exploration, and historical sightseeing. From portrait sessions in Aberdeen's urban landscape to capturing the dramatic beauty of Dunnottar Castle, this trip offered a wealth of photographic opportunities. If you're planning a short trip to Scotland, I highly recommend exploring Aberdeen and Stonehaven!
Have you explored Aberdeen, Stonehaven, or Dunnottar Castle? Share your experiences in the comments below! I'd love to hear about your favorite photography locations in Scotland!

Happy shooting!