Edinburgh
Instituted in 1861, the Edinburgh Photographic Society (EPS) is one of the world’s oldest photographic societies, established at the very beginning of photography. For more than 160 years, EPS has been a community for photographers to share ideas, learn, and exhibit photographic work. From the Victorian pioneers who shaped the art form to today’s members reviving traditional darkroom techniques and reimagining modern digital photographic technologies, the Society continues to champion creativity, community collaboration, and the enduring power of photography. Edinburgh Photographic Society occupies a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse at 68 Great King Street in Edinburgh’s New Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
REVIVE
EPS is one of the oldest photographic societies in the world. Founded in 1861 during the birth of photography, it has continuously nurtured the art and craft of image-making across generations. Our International Print Exhibition — now in its 162nd consecutive year — sustains a global tradition of Fine Art Printing, attracting entries from across the world and keeping the legacy of photographic excellence alive and coveted. Our fully equipped Darkroom revives the hands-on traditions of black-and-white film processing and printing, ensuring that these foundational skills are passed to new generations. In an era of AI-generated imagery, EPS is actively keeping both traditional formats of photography and modern digital practice alive and thriving.
RESIST
Doors Open Day 2026 will feature a special talk by Jean Manson, a passionate conservationist and wildlife photographer. Jean will present her photographic work documenting wildlife and the natural environment, sharing observations of ecological change gathered over many years in the field. Her presentation will address the ethics of wildlife photography — how photographers must conduct themselves to avoid disrupting animal behaviour — and how the art form can advocate for the natural world. EPS will also host two nature and wildlife photography exhibitions, showcasing stunning images from around the globe that bear witness to fragile ecosystems and the environments we share with other species.
REIMAGINE
EPS embraces the future whilst honouring its past. The Creative Digital (CD) Group within the society explores the full expressive potential of digital photography — pushing the boundaries of storytelling, visual art, and creative technique. EPS hosts guest presenters from around the world, expressing art through unique approaches to creative photography, and diverse perspectives and visual records of societies and their stories through the lens. On Open Day our Georgian building will exhibit diverse photographic prints for patrons to enjoy. Visitors will be invited to explore our professional studio, discover reviving traditional darkroom photographic techniques for themselves, and browse our remarkable library of over 2,500 photography books (including volumes dating to 1854). Studio demonstration sessions will give visitors the option to have their own photograph taken, connecting personally with the art form.
- Two Nature & Wildlife Photography Exhibitions
- Edinburgh Photography Meetup Group (EPMG) exhibition
- A presentation by Jean Manson: Wildlife Photography, Conservation & Ethics
- Portrait Studio Demonstrations: Visitors can explore our professional studios and have the option to have their photograph taken.
- Darkroom Discovery: Guided exploration of traditional black-and-white film processing and printing techniques
- Library Access: Browse over 2,500 photography books, including rare publications ranging from modern, contemporary, period and historic editions dating back to 1854.
- Throughout the building, creative, artistic expressions of abstract, intentional camera movement (ICM), architecture, street and social photography, and digital artworks.
Facilities
Additional Access Information
Heritage Georgian Property – stairs for upper and lower levels. Main entrance has Georgian Steeps to overcome. No ramp available to fit building.
Main level is Wheelchair accessible but requires overcoming steps at entrance.