Business Details
49 Years
experience
Your Photography Hub in Edinburgh
Stills has been a cornerstone of photographic excellence in Edinburgh since 1977. As Scotland's leading photography centre, we provide a dynamic platform for artists and enthusiasts to explore, create, and engage with the medium. Our comprehensive facilities include state-of-the-art darkrooms, digital labs, and equipment hire services, all accessible at subsidised rates. Through three annual exhibitions, educational programmes, and community initiatives, we champion photography's role in contemporary culture. Our team of experienced professionals delivers tailored courses for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.With a rich archive dating back to our founding, we preserve and showcase photographic heritage while fostering innovation. Our venue hire services offer flexible spaces for events, complemented by technical support and creative resources. As a registered charity, we maintain accessibility through free exhibitions and discounted memberships. Our commitment to sustainability aligns with Creative Carbon Scotland's Green Arts Initiative, ensuring responsible practices across operations. With over four decades of experience, we continue to shape Scotland's photographic landscape through collaboration, education, and artistic excellence.
Services
Photography Courses
Exhibition Access
Production Facilities
Venue Hire
Library Resources
Equipment Rental
Artist Development
Community Programmes
Archival Research
Digital Services
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- Established in 1977 with a proven track record in photographic excellence
- Offer state-of-the-art facilities including Scotland's only open access colour print processor
- Provide expert-led courses for all skill levels from beginners to professionals
- Host three major exhibitions annually featuring international and local talent
- Maintain full accessibility across all venues with dedicated technical support
What people say
Dynamic exhibitions
Expert tutors
Accessible facilities
Creative community
Historic archive
Services
Photography Courses
Our expert-led photography courses cater to all skill levels, from beginners to professionals. With both in-house and online options, participants gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment. Courses include all materials with no hidden costs, ensuring accessible learning for everyone.
Exhibition Access
Discover three major annual exhibitions featuring international and local photographic talent. Our free gallery spaces showcase contemporary works while preserving historical collections. The venue hosts special events, private views, and educational programmes throughout the year for public engagement.
Production Facilities
Access state-of-the-art darkrooms, digital labs, and equipment hire services at subsidised rates. Our facilities include Scotland's only open access dry-to-dry colour print processor and digital suites with Adobe Creative Cloud software for professional development.
Venue Hire
Host events in our flexible Edinburgh venues accommodating 35-150 guests. Options include the main gallery, production facilities, and dedicated meeting spaces with technical support. All areas feature full wheelchair accessibility and modern AV capabilities for corporate or private functions.
Library Resources
Explore our collection of 2,000+ photography books and special archives. The library offers research opportunities with historical exhibition catalogues and rare publications. Registered members can borrow materials and access exclusive resources for academic or creative projects.
People
Vivienne Gamble
Director
Vivienne leads Stills' strategic vision, overseeing exhibitions, education programmes, and organisational development. With extensive experience in arts management, she champions photographic innovation while maintaining the centre's community-focused ethos.
Cheryl Connell
Programme Manager
Cheryl coordinates Stills' exhibition programme and public events. She ensures artistic quality across displays while developing engaging activities that connect diverse audiences with photographic practice through curated experiences.
Claire Cochrane
Creative Learning Manager
Claire directs educational initiatives including courses, workshops, and youth programmes. She develops accessible learning opportunities that nurture photographic skills for beginners and professionals across Scotland.
Evan Thomas
Technical Manager
Evan oversees Stills' production facilities, maintaining darkrooms, digital labs, and equipment hire services. His technical expertise ensures artists access cutting-edge resources while receiving professional support for creative projects.
David Grinly
Research Associate
David contributes to educational programmes as both tutor and researcher. He delivers specialist courses while conducting archival research that informs exhibitions and preserves Stills' photographic heritage.
Questions
What photography courses do you offer?
We provide courses for all skill levels from beginners to professionals, covering darkroom techniques, digital editing, and creative practice with expert tutors.
Are exhibitions free to visit?
Yes, all our gallery exhibitions are free with open access Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm, plus extended hours during Edinburgh Art Festival.
Can I hire your venue for events?
Our flexible spaces accommodate 35-150 guests with options including the main gallery, production facilities, and meeting rooms available for hire.
Do you have photography equipment available?
Yes, we offer subsidised equipment hire including cameras, lighting, and studio gear for both short-term projects and extended use.
How can I access your library resources?
Register online to borrow books or access our 2,000+ photography collection, exhibition archives, and specialist publications for research or personal interest.
Are your facilities accessible?
All areas feature wheelchair access with lifts, accessible toilets, and technical support available to ensure inclusive use of our creative spaces.
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