As your experienced, expert, award-winning Edinburgh wedding photographer for Edinburgh City Chambers weddings, this isn’t just another venue for us. It holds a special place in our hearts as the place where we registered our children’s births. ❤️
We’re honoured to bevenue-recommended Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photographers and have photographed over 100 fabulous couples at this beautiful venue.
That experience means we know:
The best ‘secret’ photo spots on the Royal Mile to avoid the crowds.
How to get stunning, romantic photos, whatever the Edinburgh weather does.
Exactly how to manage the ceremony timing to get all the group and newlywed shots you want without feeling rushed.
5 Reasons You’ll Love Us as Your Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding Photographer
Choosing a photographer for your Edinburgh City Chambers wedding is about more than just picking a style you like; it’s about finding a photographer who knows the rhythm of the venue. As recommended suppliers who have captured over 100 weddings here, we don’t just know the building—we know how to make your day flow effortlessly. Here is how our experience translates into a better experience for you.
Unrivalled Local Knowledge: We know City Chambers inside out—from the lighting quirks inside the venue to the secret, quiet “closes” of the Royal Mile. For you, this means getting iconic Edinburgh portraits without the stress of crowds. We don’t waste time hunting for locations; we take you straight to the best spots so you can get back to celebrating.
The “Small Wedding” Specialists: We specialise in the intimacy of micro-weddings by blending in and stripping away the heavy gear so we don’t dominate the room.The result? You never feel “on display.” Your ceremony stays intimate and personal, allowing us to capture honest, heartfelt moments without you ever feeling awkward.
Effortless Direction: We replace stiff posing with gentle guidance and draw on our experience with family dynamics to organise group shots quickly and happily. This ensures you get natural smiles, not frozen faces. We keep the flow moving so your guests stay happy, and you look relaxed and confident in every frame.
Weather-Proof Confidence: Bright sun, romantic mist, or classic Edinburgh drizzle—we have the technical experience to handle it all. This gives you total peace of mind. You can stop checking the forecast, knowing that no matter what the Scottish skies throw at us, you are guaranteed stunning, romantic images.
Maximum Storytelling in Minimum Time: City Chambers ceremonies can be short, but we know the ceremony rhythm perfectly, ensuring we capture the “I do’s,” the glances, and the laughter without missing a beat. You’ll get a gallery that feels rich and complete, capturing the full narrative of your day—romance, belly laughs, and all—without spending hours away from your guests.
Your wedding may be small, but it deserves to be captured with a big heart and expert skill. If you want a day that feels relaxed, fun, and distinctly ‘you,’ we’d love to tell your story. Let’s have a chat about your plans.
When we photograph Edinburgh City Chambers weddings, we guarantee to create fabulous photos of you, but don’t just take our word for it:
We had a great time and felt so comfortable!
Jonathon and Claire are the loviest couple… from our very first communication they made us feel special and were so interested in who we are as people! They tailored everything just for us, and had they not radiated such beauty and kindness, we wouldn’t have even known they were there… and for two people like us who HATE getting photos taken, we had a great time and felt so comfortable! We got married on 31st December, and they gave up their own celebrations with their families to help us capture ours… We truly hit the jackpot, and wouldn’t ever trust anyone else to capture our special celebrations and moments! Please don’t pass up the opportunity on having these two look after your special day! Very trustworthy and fantastic value for money.
Zoe and Billy
We absolutely love our wedding pictures
Jonathon and Claire – we cannot thank you both enough for being the best – from start to finish, it has been a dream to work with you both! If you are reading this and considering booking – DO IT!! Thank you both SO MUCH for everything, we absolutely love our wedding pictures and how beautifully you have captured our day and the memories we’ll have forever – we are still so blown away by how perfectly everything turned out and on an absolute high! We also wanted to say how grateful we are to have had you both at our wedding. You were just such a joy to be around and put us both at ease. You got us and the vibe of the day so perfectly, and our family and friends have also said how brilliant you both were! Thank you so much!!! Helen & Daniel xxx
Helen and Daniel
City Chambers Weddings Photo & Video Prices
The Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photography prices below are perfect for weddings with up to four hours of coverage.
One Hour
City Chambers Essentials
1 hour mid-week/off-peak coverage (Mon-Fri only)
One photographer
Ceremony coverage
Group photos with family/friends
Newlywed photos on the Royal Mile
100+ photos
Free witness if required
Online gallery of high-resolution images + download/sharing
Price: £349
Two Hours
Just‑Us Adventure
2 hours of coverage any day of the week
Everything in One Hour Collection plus iconic photo tour (Victoria Street, Vennel/Castle view)
Multi‑camera ceremony video: £200, includes a free drone upgrade (see below).
Complimentary drone footage of the Royal Mile and City Chambers (free upgrade included when you pay to have your ceremony filmed):
Edinburgh City Chambers Drone Video 4K UHD. See Edinburgh’s Old Town viewed from the air.
What’s Included
We offer straightforward pricing for Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photography that includes everything you need. If you’d like to tweak things a bit, we’re more than happy to customise the coverage just for you.
Every booking includes:
Beautiful photos of your wedding ceremony
Relaxed group shots featuring the newlyweds with family and friends
Absolutely stunning newlywed portraits
Password-protected web gallery to view and share your photos
Download all your photos in high resolution directly from your web gallery
And here’s a bonus: we’re also highly experienced, award-winning videographers, so we can offer both photography and video services for Edinburgh City Chambers weddings.
Bookingwith us is straightforward.
We’ll send you an electronic contract (e-contract) that you can complete and sign directly from your phone, tablet, or computer, eliminating the need for fiddly paperwork.
You’ll find the payment details for your £300 depositon the contract. Bookings are confirmed once we’ve received the completed contract and your deposit.
The balance isn’t due until a month before your big day.
Easy, hassle-free, and no hidden surprises.
Our Photos of Weddings At Edinburgh City Chambers
A selection of a few of our favourite photos of Edinburgh City Chambers weddings.
See our fabulous 8-minute highlights video filmed when Lauren and Iain invited us to be their Edinburgh City Chambers wedding videographer and photographers. We can provide both photography and video for your wedding. Ask for details of our combined package.
“We couldn’t be happier…”
…with our photographs and video of our wedding by Love Wedding Photos and Film. We found them on Instagram and instantly fell in love with their work. Due to lockdown we arranged an elopement at Edinburgh City Chambers (after 4 cancellations…) and Jonathon and Claire made our small but special day stress free and captured so many moments that we had forgotten and moments which is great for sharing with our friends and family. Before the day, Jonathon gave us so many options on what we could do and how we could make the most of our time with them. They really know Edinburgh and pick the most beautiful spots. Jonathon and Claire also acted as our witnesses which is perfect for a micro-wedding/elopement (especially with the 5 people restriction). Thank you both again for perfectly capturing our day that we can look back on for years to come.
Lauren and Iain
Edinburgh City Chambers Alexander Suite Wedding Video
Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding Video – Lauren and Iain Elopement Film
“We’re really pleased with the video”
To be honest, it was never our idea to get one – we had our arms twisted by my mum – and we sat down to watch it last week expecting to cringe all the way through but were so surprised at how good it was and how pleased we are now to have it! (although I did have to admit to my mum she was right!) The quality is great, the sound’s excellent and it’s a lovely reminder of the day. We particularly like the way you picked up on our sense of humour and left some funny lines in on the audio. It really feels like the video has been customised for us rather than made-to-formula which I suspect is the case with other companies!
Susannah and Nathan
Edinburgh City Chambers European Room Wedding Video
Edinburgh City Chambers Wedding Film – Newlyweds meet the First Minister
Our experience as a photographer of Edinburgh City Chambers weddings means we can guide you on the day to make the most of the city centre location.
Photos can be taken in the marriage room and the reception area. A bonus is the beautiful staircase, which provides ample natural light for photos.
Outside, there are many more opportunities to capture beautiful moments against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Iconic locations and landmarks are all within easy reach, with gorgeous newlywed photos guaranteed.
The many sights of Edinburgh provide ample inspiration for taking the wedding day photos you will look back on for many years to come.
One hour of coverage provides enough time to shoot fabulous photos at most, if not all, of the following locations within a two-minute walk of Edinburgh City Chambers Registry Office:
Quadrangle
Edinburgh City Chambers Quadrangle offers exquisite architectural grandeur and historic charm.
Its ornate details and commanding presence create a regal setting for captivating, sophisticated photos.
St Giles’ Cathedral
The ancient steps and ornate doors of St Giles’ Cathedral provide a dramatic backdrop for newlywed photos, combining intricate architecture with historical significance.
This unique setting offers a visually compelling photography location and is located directly opposite Edinburgh City Chambers.
Parliament House
Parliament House, just a few steps from Edinburgh City Chambers, offers a majestic photographic backdrop that combines classical elegance with historical significance.
A complex of several buildings housing the Supreme Courts of Scotland, its architectural splendour and iconic presence create a dignified setting for timeless and captivating photos.
Parliament Square
Parliament Square is picturesque and surrounded by historic landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral, the Signet Library, and the French Consulate.
The charming square near Edinburgh City Chambers offers architectural beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal spot for newlywed photos.
The Royal Mile boasts a picturesque setting, with its historic architecture and cobbled streets, creating a charming backdrop that captures the essence of romance and tradition.
Two hours or more of coverage includes the exact newlywed photo locations above, plus additional coverage below (Victoria Street + Vennel, both within walking distance of Edinburgh City Chambers), or go a little further afield to one of Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations, just a short taxi ride away.
One of Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable locations, featuring curved, cobblestone road and colourful storefronts, it provides a lively dash of colour for your photos.
The busy street is defined by engaging curved lines, medieval buildings, gothic spires and an invigorating, lively atmosphere.
The Vennel
The Vennel is one of those hidden Edinburgh gems you stumble upon and instantly fall in love with.
This narrow alleyway in the Grassmarket offers one of the most iconic views of Edinburgh Castle, perfectly framed above the steep stone steps.
It’s a favourite spot for photographers. Fun fact: “Vennel” comes from the Old French word for a narrow lane, and there’s something beautifully timeless about wandering through this one.
Timeline Examples
Time (example based on a 1.15pm ceremony)
What’s happening
1:00pm
Meet outside City Chambers; quick first‑look or arrival shots
1.15pm
Ceremony (Alexander Suite, European Room or Wee Neuk)
1:35pm
Hugs and group photos in the Quadrangle, confetti on the Royal Mile
1:50pm
St Giles steps & Parliament Square portraits
2:00pm
1-hour package coverage ends; 2-hour coverage moves on to Victoria Street, Grassmarket + The Vennel
2:00pm
Wander up the Royal Mile towards Victoria Street
2:10pm
Victoria Street newlywed photos
2:30pm
Wander towards The Vennel via Grassmarket
2:40pm
The Vennel Steps – Edinburgh Castle‑view finale
3:00pm
You head for cocktails, I head to the edit suite – first five teasers hit our socials within 48 hours (or 30 same-day if you purchase the add-on above)
Your Essential Guides To Getting Married In Edinburgh
Discover our 20 reasons to have confetti at weddings in Edinburgh. Discover the different types and how we capture your perfect photo every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are regularly asked the following questions as Edinburgh City Chambers Registry Office wedding photographers.
How soon Do You Edit Edinburgh City Chambers wedding photos?
Hire us as your photographer, and you can usually expect your photos to be ready for viewing in less than 1 week. We might take a little longer during the busier summer months, but we’ll always keep you posted on progress. If you are happy for us to do so, we’ll post a few ‘sneak peek’ preview photos within a few days of your big day.
Is there parking for Edinburgh City Chambers Weddings?
There is one parking space within the Quadrangle (one car only) for the duration of the wedding. However, this is subject to change. The team for Edinburgh City Chambers weddings will let you know as soon as possible if parking is suspended. On-street parking is nearby at Blair Street, Niddry Street, Chambers Street, St Giles’ Street and Blackfriar’s Street, with longer-term parking available at Q-Park Greenside Place and NCP Castle Terrace.
How do I access the Quadrangle during the Fringe Festival in August?
As there is strictly no parking available in the Quadrangle during August, you must access it on foot. The nearest vehicle access is George IV Bridge.
What time should my guests arrive?
Guests should arrive 10 minutes before your ceremony starts. Or a little earlier if you would like a few photos before the ceremony begins.
Can my guests throw confetti?
Unfortunately, confetti is not allowed within Edinburgh City Chambers or the Quadrangle. However, you can throw biodegradable confetti beyond the Quadrangle boundary on the Royal Mile. See our guide on confetti at weddings.
Do I need to provide witnesses?
You are required by law to have two witnesses present at your ceremony who are 16 years of age or over and can understand the ceremony. The Registration Department is unable to provide you with witnesses. Your witnesses do not need to bring ID documents on the day unless your chosen witnesses look under 16. If you cannot provide witnesses, you have two options. The first option is to ask a couple of strangers on the street if they would like to witness your marriage ceremony. The alternative that works well for our clients is that, when you hire us as your photographer and have two of us working for you, we are happy to serve as your witnesses at no extra charge. We can supply an additional witness for photo or video packages with one photographer/videographer (contact us to discuss). We recommend scheduling your second witness in advance to avoid stress and inconvenience on your wedding day.
Can we open a bottle of champagne to celebrate?
No food or drink can be consumed in any of the ceremony suites. We have photographed newlyweds popping open a bottle of champagne in the Quadrangle and on the Royal Mile.
How much does it cost For Edinburgh City Chambers Weddings?
Ceremony prices start at just £155 for a small ceremony in the Wee Neuk and rise to £615 for a weekend ceremony in the European Room. Note that these prices are correct as of the date of publication and are subject to change without notice; please confirm costs directly with the Edinburgh City Chambers weddings team.
Who do I contact at the City Chambers to book my ceremony?
As the most experienced and sought-after videographer and photographer for Edinburgh City Chambers weddings, we’ve been honoured to photograph over 100 weddings at this fabulous location.
We always enjoy the atmosphere and the fantastic service provided by the Edinburgh City Chambers weddings team!
The Registration Office at City Chambers is in the perfect location for anyone wanting to get married in the city.
It offers excellent transport links and a wide range of hotel options.
Council Chamber
Imagine celebrating your wedding in Edinburgh’s most iconic and grand civic space – the Council Chamber. With breathtaking city skyline views and timeless elegance, this room is a dream setting for your big day. Whether planning a romantic ceremony for up to 120 guests or a lively evening reception, the Council Chamber’s versatility ensures it can accommodate your vision.
Featuring an impressive domed ceiling, a striking fireplace, and murals rich in history, this room exudes a regal charm that will create an unforgettable atmosphere for your celebration. The coats of arms of the spouses of Scotland’s Kings and Queens provide a stunning backdrop for your vows, making your wedding feel like a page straight out of a fairytale.
The additional gallery space is a hidden gem, perfect for accommodating extra guests or offering your photographer the chance to capture your day from unique, elevated angles. This vantage point allows us to capture dramatic, frame-worthy shots that highlight your celebration’s intimate moments and grandeur.
When the festivities call for dancing, the flexible layout allows the carpet to be lifted, transforming the space into a stunning dance floor. Whether it’s your first dance or a lively ceilidh, the Council Chamber seamlessly transitions into the perfect party setting that accommodates up to 200 guests.
As experienced wedding photographers, we understand how to make the most of such a remarkable setting. From capturing candid moments beneath the elegant dome to showcasing the stunning cityscape as your backdrop, our expertise ensures your wedding memories are as striking as the venue itself.
The European Room
The European Room is a true gem for couples dreaming of a wedding in Edinburgh, steeped in elegance and history. Lined with captivating paintings by William Hole, showcasing six centuries of Edinburgh’s vibrant past, this ornate space offers a unique and timeless backdrop for your special day. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a stylish celebration, the European Room radiates charm and sophistication.
With a capacity for up to 90 guests in a theatre setting, 60 for a formal dinner, or 110 for a lively reception, this space is perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your nearest and dearest. The room also connects seamlessly to the Councillors’ Lounge, providing additional flexibility for your wedding-day flow.
As experienced photographers of Edinburgh City Chambers weddings, we’re passionate about documenting your love story in stunning venues like the European Room. Imagine the glow of warm wood tones, the intricate details of historic artwork, and the romance of the setting, all beautifully preserved in your wedding photos. Our experience in wedding photography means we know exactly how to make the most of this gorgeous room, ensuring every detail of your day is captured with artistry and care.
The Diamond Jubilee Room
Imagine celebrating in The Diamond Jubilee Room at Edinburgh City Chambers, steeped in history and elegance. Once the meeting place of Edinburgh’s Town Council, this stunning space exudes grandeur and charm, making it the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Positioned at the head of the main staircase and illuminated by three breathtaking chandeliers, it offers a romantic atmosphere that’s as timeless as your love story.
Whether you’re planning a cosy dinner for up to 24 guests or an elegant reception for up to 30, the Diamond Jubilee Room provides a beautiful backdrop for your special day. Its large central table and heritage features make it ideal for creating unforgettable moments with your closest family and friends.
As your photographer, we’ll capture every detail of this enchanting setting – from the warm glow of the chandeliers to the emotional moments shared around the table.
The Alexander Suite
The Alexander Suite on the ground floor is the most popular room for Edinburgh City Chambers weddings. It offers a beautiful ceremony room for up to 36 guests, with views over the south quadrangle courtyard.
The Alexander Suite is Edinburgh’s most popular wedding venue, consisting of three tastefully decorated rooms.
The Guest Lounge overlooks Princes Street and the New Town to the north. The suite is fully accessible and includes a waiting lounge with facilities, plus a ‘Signature Room’ for the registrar to meet the couple before the ceremony.
Guest Lounge
Part of the Alexander Suite, the comfortable Guest Lounge offers couples the opportunity to meet family and guests, with fantastic views across Edinburgh’s New Town and the Kingdom of Fife.
Signature Room
As part of the Alexander Suite, newlywed couples sign the marriage schedule in a smaller, adjoining Signature Room.
The Wee Neuk
The Wee Neuk room for Edinburgh City Chambers weddings is the most intimate ceremony space, available Monday to Thursday only. It accommodates a couple and two witnesses, making it ideal for:
Simple, no-frills ceremonies
Couples planning a larger celebration elsewhere
Elopements
Registration-only civil partnerships (no formal ceremony)
Please note that only the standard ceremony is available here; no modifications are available.
Edinburgh City Chambers Weddings Contact Form
We are Claire and Jonathon, a couple of photographers at Edinburgh City Chambers with over 700 weddings of experience. If you love our natural, joyful style, we would be honoured to hear your plans.
Discover the benefits of having two photographers at your wedding in Edinburgh. Capture moments from different angles for a complete visual story of your day.
From Banking to Bridal – A Career With A Creative Twist
Once upon a time, Claire Fowler was climbing the corporate ladder in one of Europe’s largest banks, mastering commercial loan deals, crunching numbers, and making critical financial decisions. When she married Jonathon, she was soon trading boardrooms for bridal bouquets. Goodbye banking, hello breathtaking films and wedding photos in Edinburgh and across Scotland!
With hundreds of weddings lovingly documented, Claire is an in-demand photographer and videographer. What started as a passion has turned into a full-time career, proving that following your dreams (and ditching the corporate 9-to-5) can pay off beautifully.
Her style? A perfect mix of artistic creativity and documentary storytelling, capturing the real, raw, and ridiculously romantic moments. Whether it's a windswept elopement or luxury wedding, Claire’s got you covered.
Why Couples Trust Claire (and you should too!)
Experience that counts. Hundreds of weddings beautifully covered.
Authentic & timeless style. No cheesy filters, just natural, heartfelt storytelling that stands the test of time.
Zero awkward posing, and a knack for making couples feel at ease.
Personalised service. Every couple gets the VIP treatment.
Award-winning. Recognised for capturing love stories in their best light.
Claire’s dedication, eye for detail, and passion for storytelling make her the obvious choice for couples who want stunning, meaningful images.
So, if you want someone who can capture the magic of your day (and won’t make you stand stiffly like a Victorian portrait), Claire is the perfect match for you.!