Business Details
49 Years
experience
Photography Centre in Edinburgh | Stills
Stills has been a cornerstone of photographic excellence in Scotland since 1977. As a pioneering centre for photography, we provide a dynamic platform for artists and enthusiasts to explore, create, and engage with the medium. Our extensive experience is reflected in our curated exhibitions featuring both historic and contemporary works, which attract visitors from across the globe. Through our comprehensive educational programmes, we empower individuals to develop their skills, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our state-of-the-art production facilities, including Scotland's only open-access dry-to-dry colour print processor, support creative experimentation and technical mastery.The Stills library, housing over 2,000 specialist books, serves as a vital resource for photographic scholarship. Our dedicated team of professionals combines decades of industry expertise with a passion for nurturing photographic talent. We maintain rigorous standards of practice, evidenced by our long-standing partnerships with leading arts organisations and institutions. Our commitment to accessibility ensures that photography remains an inclusive art form for all. This enduring reputation for excellence has established Stills as a trusted authority in the photographic arts sector.
Services
Photography Courses
Exhibitions
Darkroom Access
Library Access
Venue Hire
Equipment Hire
Digital Lab Access
Creative Workshops
Photography Workshops
Event Hosting
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- Established in 1977 with a proven track record in photographic education
- Scotland's only open-access dry-to-dry colour print processing facility
- Curated exhibitions featuring international and local photographic talent
- Comprehensive library with over 2,000 specialist photography publications
- Experienced tutors delivering practical, industry-relevant instruction
What people say
Outstanding exhibitions
Expert tutors
Excellent facilities
Valuable resource
Creative environment
Services
Photography Courses
Stills offers comprehensive photography instruction for all skill levels. Our experienced tutors deliver practical, hands-on learning in both traditional and digital techniques. Courses include all materials with no hidden costs, ensuring accessible education for everyone. Participants gain valuable technical skills while developing their creative vision through structured programmes.
Exhibitions
Three major exhibitions annually showcase historic works, international talent, and emerging Scottish photographers. Entry remains free with gallery access five days weekly. Special displays include contemporary installations and archive material, offering diverse perspectives on photographic practice and its cultural significance.
Production Facilities
State-of-the-art darkrooms and digital labs operate at subsidised rates. Facilities include Scotland's only open-access colour print processor and Mac workstations with Adobe Creative Suite. Technical support ensures safe, professional environments for both beginners and experienced practitioners to develop their craft through hands-on experimentation.
Library Access
Our specialist library contains over 2,000 photography-related books, including rare monographs and critical texts. The collection supports academic research and artistic development, with materials covering historical techniques, contemporary practice, and theoretical perspectives on visual culture.
Venue Hire
Flexible spaces accommodate various functions from corporate events to creative workshops. The gallery and production facilities provide distinctive settings with technical support available. Packages include equipment hire and catering options, with accessibility features ensuring inclusive use of all areas.
People
Vivienne Gamble
Director
Leading Stills since 2016, Vivienne brings extensive experience in photographic curation and arts management. She oversees strategic direction while maintaining strong connections with the international photography community.
Cheryl Connell
Programme Manager
Cheryl manages exhibition programming and artist engagement. With a background in visual arts curation, she ensures Stills' programme maintains high artistic standards while remaining accessible to diverse audiences.
Claire Cochrane
Creative Learning Manager
Claire leads educational initiatives including Stills School and community workshops. Her expertise in photography education focuses on inclusive learning methods that support both technical development and creative expression.
Evan Thomas
Technical Manager
Evan oversees production facilities and technical operations. With specialist knowledge of photographic processes, he ensures safe, professional environments while supporting innovation in both traditional and digital imaging techniques.
David Grinly
Research Associate & Tutor
David contributes to educational programmes and archival research. As an experienced photographer and educator, he bridges academic inquiry with practical application in Stills' courses and workshops.
Questions
What photography courses do you offer?
We provide courses for all levels from beginners to professionals, covering darkroom techniques, digital imaging, and creative practice. All materials are included in course fees.
Are exhibitions free to visit?
Yes, all gallery exhibitions are free with open access Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm, plus extended hours during Edinburgh Art Festival.
Can I access production facilities without experience?
Yes, we offer inductions for new users. Our technical staff provide training to ensure safe operation of all equipment for both traditional and digital processes.
What venue hire options exist?
We offer gallery, production facilities, and flexible spaces for events. Capacity ranges from 35 seated to 150 reception style with technical support available.
Is the building fully accessible?
Yes, all areas have wheelchair access with lifts and accessible toilets. Guide dogs are welcome and wireless internet is available throughout the building.
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