Cardney Steading near Dunkeld in Perthshire is one of the venues I photograph most often, and one of my favourites. Its rural setting and rustic character suit couples who want a relaxed celebration with plenty of personality. I’m David Grant Simpson, a Glasgow-based wedding photographer working across Scotland, and Hannah and Euan’s day was a brilliant example of why I love returning here.

Hannah and Euan’s joyful Cardney Steading wedding

It was a stunning day as I arrived to photograph Hannah and Euan’s wedding. From the moment the day began, everyone’s enthusiasm pulled me in. Two incredible people, surrounded by friends and family who were ready to celebrate: there was laughter, joy and a whole lot of fun.

Cardney’s rustic charm complemented their relaxed yet lively wedding. The outdoor spaces provided a lovely setting for their ceremony and opportunities for group photographs, with plenty of genuine moments happening around us.

Bagpipes, dancing and a celebration full of energy

After an incredible first dance, Hannah, her mum and her bridesmaid gave a bagpipe performance, and the dance floor came alive. Those are the moments I love photographing: people fully enjoying themselves and the energy spreading through the room.

Hannah and Euan’s day was full of love and connection. It was a pleasure to document it, from the quieter moments to the celebrations with everyone they’d brought together.

Why I love photographing weddings at Cardney Steading

I’ve photographed weddings here on several occasions over the years, and every one has had a really fun, laid-back feel. Cardney has that rustic countryside character alongside beautifully finished spaces. It suits couples who want a little adventure and a bit of elegance, with plenty of choice to make the day their own.

A journey through the wedding day

One of my favourite things is how the celebration moves between different locations. Depending on your plans, the ceremony, drinks reception, dinner and evening party can each have their own setting. Your guests go on a bit of a journey, discovering another part of the venue as the day unfolds. At the weddings I’ve photographed, that flow has been well organised and has helped everything run smoothly.

It also suits the way I work. People are moving, chatting and enjoying each new space, so I can blend into the background and capture those candid moments. We can still make time for family pictures in a lovely setting and portraits that bring in the wider landscape.

Places I love for wedding photographs at Cardney

The water and boat portraits

The pond is a beautiful option for photographs, and I’ve taken couples out on a boat here. I’ve also made drone photographs of couples on the water, bringing the landscape into their portraits from another perspective. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, we’ll talk about it beforehand and check the arrangements with the venue. Boat use and any drone photography depend on permission, suitable conditions and safe arrangements on the day.

The hills and wider landscape

If you fancy exploring a little further, heading up into the hills gives us beautiful views across the landscape. It’s an option for couples who want something a bit more adventurous. We’ll choose the route and timing around how much exploring you’d like to do, your footwear and the conditions.

The woodland, lawn and buildings

The woodland is really cool for photographs, and the lawn and impressive buildings give us more choices close to the celebration. There’s no need to visit every spot. We can pick the places that suit your personalities, whether that means a little wander, family photographs nearby or a few bigger landscape portraits.

Planning your wedding photography at Cardney Steading

The venue offers lochside, woodland and indoor ceremony options, with barn spaces and a covered courtyard. Its current dining space, The Dalradian, has loch views and a covered balcony. You can explore the different settings on Cardney Steading’s official venue guide and discuss your arrangements with the team. These are the venue’s current options; the photographs here show Hannah and Euan’s wedding.

Make time for the photographs that matter to you

Before the wedding, we’ll talk about your plans, the family photographs you want and how much time you’d like for portraits together. Getting organised beforehand means fewer questions on the day and more time for you to enjoy the celebration. We’ll plan around your ceremony and reception spaces, rather than trying to fit in every possible backdrop.

If you’re camera-shy

Most of my couples are camera-shy. You don’t need to know how to pose: I’ll get to know you, give guidance when it helps and keep things fun. I want your personalities to come through, so I’ll tailor the experience to your comfort levels. My advice for camera-shy couples explains more about how we can make photographs feel relaxed.

Keep the timing flexible for the weather

We can leave some flexibility in the schedule for outdoor portraits, choosing a moment that suits the weather, light and what’s happening during your day. We’ll also discuss indoor options beforehand and work around the spaces you’ve booked. Being prepared lets you enjoy the wedding without having to make lots of decisions about photographs.