Meet the local: Soo Burnell

For this edition of Meet the Locals, we caught up with Edinburgh-based photographer Soo Burnell, whose
architectural photography has captured everything from Victorian swimming pools and Art Deco cinemas to Japanese onsens.

We spoke to Soo about life in Edinburgh, the places that inspire her most, and how she’d spend the perfect day in the city she’s always called home.

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am a fine art photographer based in Scotland, and my studio is on the outskirts of Edinburgh. My work explores my passion for architecture and composition. The story of my Poolside collections goes back quite a few years now with a shoot I did at Glenogle Baths in Stockbridge. At the time, I thought this would be a one-off project, but it was the catalyst for something much bigger. I went on to photograph pools across the UK and Europe, and this has evolved with more recent collections exploring different types of architecture and different spaces.

The latest collection I released, At The Onsen, explores the culture of public bathing in Japan, and was shot on location in Tokyo and in the mountains of Nakanojō. I recently returned from Jaipur where I shot a new collection that I’ll be releasing later this year.

2. How long have you lived in Edinburgh and do you have a favourite part of the city?

I was brought up in Edinburgh so I’ve known the city all my life. It’s hard to choose one favourite part, but I’ve always loved Stockbridge. I enjoy a wander along St Stephen’s Street, and I love the peace and quiet of Dean Gardens.

3. What do you love the most about Edinburgh?

I’ve always been inspired by the architecture. I’ve been really lucky to photograph some of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings when they’ve been closed to the public, from the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street when I was photographing the incredible Grand Gallery, to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery on Queen Street and, of course, my favourite Victorian pools.

4. How would you spend your ideal day?

I’d start with brunch at Ardfern in Leith, and then head up to Broughton Street to have a browse in Lifestory, stopping for a coffee at Ante on Haddington Place. I’d walk through the New Town to Stockbridge and then visit Dean Gardens with my dogs Ruby and Nola, before heading to the glasshouses in the Royal Botanic Garden. And then I’d finish the day with a visit to Modern One gallery on Belford Road.

5. If friends were visiting for a couple of days, what would you suggest they do?

First, I’d suggest they head to Jupiter Artland. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the collection and the exhibitions held there. I’d suggest a visit to the Royal Botanic Garden as it’s such a calm place to recharge a little when you’ve been walking around the city, and I’d definitely recommend coffee at The Milkman on Cockburn Street.

6. With Edinburgh's unpredictable weather throughout the year, what's your best summer styling hack to make sure you're ready for all eventualities?

I don’t think I have one, other than having four different coat options in the back of the car at all times!

7. Where can people view/buy your photography?

You can view current collections on my website (www.Soo-Burnell.com) or on instagram https://www.instagram.com/soo.burnell/. My new series ‘Indian Summer’ will be exhibited later this summer. You can find details of current shows and exhibitions on the event section on my website.