2025 HIGHLAND WINTER TRIP PREP

1 Dec

Know your subject and season’s

Research is vital for any good wildlife photography trip and i cant stress this enough, knowing what can be found and where can save valuable time in the field as can knowing how they behave in winter increases your chances !

Here’s some species found in winter

Red deer - Majestic animals against snow covered mountain or when they descend to the moorlands in harsher weather is a bucket shot image.

Mountain Hares - Another iconic Scottish spices with their white coats that blend perfectly into their surroundings, which can lead to some pleasing compositions.

Ptarmigans & Snow buntings - Found high up on mountain plateaus, the Ptarmigan blends into the background with their white snow like coats to protect them against attack, this red listed bird is one for the books !

As are the little snow buntings, a true arctic survivor and a symbol of winter resilience.

Crested tits & Red squirrels - Two Scottish icons, the Crested tit, the punk rocker of the forests and the red squirrel, that bring colour and life to the forests of Scotland.

2. Dress for the cold ( and stillness)

A snowy scottish highlands, the weather turns quickly here !

In wildlife photography, comfort equals endurance. Any length of time when still in sub zero temperatures demand proper layering !

I would highly recommend you invest in high quality, Scottish winter tested gear, I my self have upgraded all my winter stuff to Mountain equipment ( not sponsored ). I like how its lightweight clothing, perfect for layering but also is tough and durable so freedom of movement. Also the tech that you can wear it for longer and wash less is perfect when away and is very warm and waterproof !

Some top tips

Base layer - Moisture wicking base layers are essential such as merino wool, soft against the skin but keeps you dry.
Mid layer - fleece here is the way to go to add warmth without bulk but protect against the harsh weather.
Outer layer - A waterproof, windproof shell is essential as is a good belay jacket of down for the times when you are still for long periods to keep you warm and dry !
Accessories - Insulated gloves, thermal socks, neck gaiter and a wool hat add to the warmth and comfort levels.
Bonus tip - insulated seat pad and pocket hand warmers !

Preparing your gear for the Scottish highlands in winter is vital as cold environment's change all the time and can be unforgiving on both photographer and equipment.

Keep batteries warm- the cold will drain them fast !! Keep them warm inside a jacket for longer lifespan in the cold.
Avoid lens fogging - One of winter’s draw backs is lens fogging, a slow transition between cold and warm environment's, i would recommend that you remove batteries and sd cards before going from the outside to the indoors so you can leave cameras, lenses in your back to warm up gradually and i’d also suggest putting a few silica gels pouches in the bag !
Tripod tip - Cover the legs with tape of foam pads to reduce the chances of hands on freezing cold metal, it’s not good !
Forward planning of sessions will help carrying un necessary minimum gear and reduce the weight in your bag - pack just the bare minimum for comfort ! carrying all the extra heavy gear you don’t need in snow will drain your energy levels quickly.

3. Staying safe

This may sound obvious but still some overlook this area !

Conditions in Scotland change rapidly so here’s a basic list to help you plan.

Always check mountain forecasts before you venture out
Carry a map & compass and if you can a gps device- phone signal disappears quickly.
Always let someone know where you are going and what time you will be back! For example the cairngorm ski centre has a QR code check in/out so you can say what time you are heading up the mountain and when you returned, takes just minutes but is vital and shouldn’t be over looked.
Pack survival basics - Hot drink, energy bars or gels, emergency blanket, 1st aid kit, torch, water.

And finally every short walk or a hike can turn treacherous at any time in any weather.

environmentRespect the mountains and environment, take short breaks to admire the landscape.

4. Let’s talk travel for a moment,

If like me, you have expensive gear and not fully convinced of flying then I would highly recommend to you a trip on the Caledonian sleeper, an over night service that runs from London Euston to various places in the Scottish highlands with such destinations as Fort William, Glasgow,Edinburgh,Aberdeen and Inverness.

Sleep away the overnight journey in comfort and wake up, refreshed in the heart of the cairngorms, its a great option for me to maximise my time from day one i can get off the train and head straight out !

You can choose a seat to various cabin options on board with also a club car and food options available.

you can book your trip here : https://www.sleeper.scot.

(disclaimer : I am not sponsored or affiliated with Caledonian sleeper and they have given me kind permission to use images for this blog, which i express my thanks )