Historic Scotland Events Guide 2012

I took this cover shot which appears on the front of the 2012 Historic Scotland Events Guide at the Jousting Spectacular event at Linlithgow Palace last year. I spotted a couple of kids in the crowd who were dressed in medieval costume and after checking with their parents for permission, set up a shot where they were to be chased by one of the performers.

I love the look on the face of the wee boy who can't decide between screaming or laughing.

The full guide can be downloaded here.

Fort George Celebration of the Centuries

2010's inaugural event brought the past to life at the awesome artillery fortification of Fort George. Once again, in Historic Scotland's largest event of the year, hundreds of performers will travelled from all over Britain to put on a fantastic show.

Opening with a grand parade, this celebration of history included exciting and interactive shows, demonstrations covering everything from the marching soldiers of the Roman period to the fighting troops of the twentieth century.

Royal Palace Throws Open It's Doors

Over two and a half thousand visitors flocked to Stirling Castle yesterday to catch the first glimpse of the newly refurbished £12m Royal Palace which opened it door's for the first time. Over 70 performers treated the audience to a parade up the esplanade, led by Mary of Guise on horseback.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop dropped by to drink a toast the Scotland's newest tourist attraction.

The fun continues today from 12 noon and tickets may be purchased at the door. Or draw bridge. Or portcullis.

More info here.

Historic Scotland Print Suite for 2011-12

Photographing these leaflet and brochure covers for Historic Scotland took me all over the country last year from Orkney in the north to Caerlaverock Castle in the south. Over 2 million guides are printed and distributed.

One of the perks of the job was getting to spend time at some amazing locations. I think the highlight was the Fort George Colossal Event last August which features on the cover of the 2011 Events guide.

Click the image for a closer view.

For more information about Historic Scotland click here.