The Edinburgh Photographic Society (EPS) has been active for more than 150 years and, currently, has around 200 members. There are usually several meetings per week during the season, which runs from September to April, with meetings organised during the summer. Our International Exhibition is held as part of the Edinburgh Fringe festival and attracts entries from all over the world. 

The Society

Edinburgh Photographic Society is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) SC017042.  EPS operational framework is identified in our published Constitution. You can find out more about the Society’s management on our Governance page.

People

The Society is run by  members who may volunteer to serve on the Council, the governing body for the society or take on other roles such as organising groups and competitions. You can find out more about the people involved on our Key EPS members page .

Membership

Membership is open to anyone and, with the advent of hybrid meetings, there’s no need to live in Edinburgh. We currently have members from all over the UK, several European countries and the USA. Members of all abilities are welcome from beginners to experienced photographers. For more details, visit our Join EPS page.

Groups

There are currently 4 groups, which focus on specific aspects of photography. These are the creative digital group, the nature group, the Phoenix group and the studio group. Groups meet regularly and may run competitions and tutorials. Group membership is open all members with no additional charge. To learn more, visit our Groups page.

Competitions

Competitions are one way in which members can see what other photographers are doing and get feedback on their work. There are currently eight “monthly” society competitions held each year – four for projected digital images and four for prints. In addition, groups may run their own, more specific, competitions. For more details, visit our Competitions page.

Facilities

In our premises at 68 Great King Street, Edinburgh, we have a large lecture hall, two studios, two exhibition rooms, a darkroom and a library. 

The studios are geared for portraiture and still-life photography. A full lighting system is available along with a changing room and backing papers. For members interested in film photography, there is a darkroom with several enlargers for monochrome and colour printing. Our library has a large selection of historic and current photographic books and magazines that can be borrowed by members. 

Location

68 Great King Street is a short downhill walk from Princes Street. There are several bus routes (8, 23, 27) that serve Dundas Street, which is a 3 or 4 minute walk from our premises. Car parking around Great King Street is paid parking during the day but free in the evening. However, it is often difficult to find a space.