Instituted in 1861, the Edinburgh Photographic Society (EPS) is one of the world’s oldest photographic societies and remains an active part of Scotland’s photographic community. For more than 160 years, EPS has been a place for photographers to share ideas, learn new skills, and exhibit their work. From the pioneers who shaped early photography to today’s members, the Society continues to champion creativity and collaboration.

The Early Years

Photography was still in its infancy when EPS was formed in 1861. A group of Edinburgh enthusiasts came together to explore this new medium’s artistic and scientific potential. Among them was Octavius Hill, one of the city’s most influential early photographers, whose partnership with Robert Adamson produced some of the most important photographic portraits of the 19th century.

From its earliest meetings, EPS gained a reputation for innovation. Its exhibitions attracted national attention, helping to establish Edinburgh as a centre for photographic excellence and contributing to the development of British photography.

A Home for Photographers

EPS has always been powered by volunteers. Entirely run by Members who give their time to run exhibitions, lectures, mentoring programmes and workshops that connect photographers of all levels.

Our home in Edinburgh’s New Town includes the Hill and Adamson Galleries, named in honour of the city’s pioneering photographers. The building also offers fully equipped studios and darkrooms, providing a creative space for members to experiment and produce their work.

Exhibitions and International Reach

Over the decades, EPS has hosted exhibitions that have drawn entries from across the world. Many distinguished photographers have been members, and EPS continues to gain recognition in both national and international competitions.

The Society also nurtures new talent through the Phoenix Group, which helps members develop their own photographic projects and work towards photographic distinctions.

Preserving Our Story

Much of the Society’s long history was recorded by Peter Stubbs FRPS AFIAP (1945–2023), a dedicated member and historian who created the extensive website edinphoto.org.uk. His site not only documented EPS’s history but also provided a valuable record of Edinburgh’s photographic and local heritage.

Although the original site was badly damaged in 2022, a preserved version can be found on the Internet Archive. EPS member David Ferguson has also compiled a printable version of the EPS history.

For our 150th anniversary, Peter wrote a concise summary of EPS’s story, which remains an excellent introduction to our heritage and achievements.

Looking Ahead

We are proud of our history whilst focused on the future. We honour our traditions by evolving them, ensuring our Society remains a vibrant, relevant force in the digital age.

Rooted in Edinburgh but respected nationwide, we are more than a club; we are a Charity dedicated to the art of photography. We are a community for everyone with a camera, serving our local community and the wider public with the same passion we dedicate to our members, acting as an accessible hub for creativity, culture, and connection – this is our direction.

Today, EPS continues to celebrate photography in all its forms. Through regular talks, exhibitions, mentoring, and our international competitions, we provide a welcoming space for photographers to learn, connect, and share their vision.

As we look forward, our mission remains the same as it was in 1861 — “to support the art and practice of photography and to inspire creativity across generations”.