FIFE TOP 5 LOCATIONS
John Pow
I have lived in Fife all my life, and now work as a landscape photographer. I have been taking photos for over 40 years, with my regular partners including Visit Scotland, Welcome to Fife, and The Old Course Hotel. With so many great locations to choose from I found it hard to pick just 5, so I would encourage anyone interested in photography to use these as a starting point in their photographic journey through the beautiful Kingdom of Fife.
5. Kirkcaldy: My first entry here may appear biased, as Kirkcaldy is my home town. Certainly an ex-mining town with a long industrial heritage may not immediately inspire thoughts of beautiful landscapes. However, I have won a number of prizes over the years with images of Kirkcaldy. I would recommend Dysart Harbour and Pan Ha’ as some of the most photogenic sites. The latter has featured in Outlander, so is always an Instagram favourite!
4. Culross: The National Trust for Scotland describes Culross as “Scotland’s most complete example of a burgh of the 17th and 18th centuries”. Enough said. A day there exploring with your camera is a day well spent.
3. St Andrews: I am guessing some readers may be disappointed that I only rank the town in third place. Nonetheless, there are many iconic and historic scenes to photograph. Perhaps the experience is made a little less unique by the many other people also photographing these scenes!
2. The East Neuk: The stretch of coastline between Crail and Earlsferry is as beautiful as any you will find in the world. If you are unsure where to start, just head to one of the harbours and before you know it you’ll be wondering where the day has gone and why your memory card is so full. Particular highlights to look out for are the Salt Mill at St Monans, the unique architecture of crow stepped gables and pan-tiled roofs, and my favourite, the Auld Kirk. Remember to take a telephoto lens for the exciting range of birds and wildlife that you will come across.
1. The Forth Bridge: It is a World Heritage site and a Scottish Icon, but for me it is simply beautiful engineering. I have photographed it from every conceivable angle; north, south, east and west, above, below, and on it. You will struggle to find a new composition but that does not matter, just pay attention to your verticals, keep your horizon straight, include some context, and you will have a great image.
This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 4.