Bagpipes and biceps, flying Haggis, and ever tried tossing a 68kg log?
At the weekend, I had the joy of photographing the 29th Harpenden Lions Highland Gathering – a fantastic Scottish-themed family day out that takes over Harpenden Common every summer. The gathering is the largest Highland Games in the UK outside of Scotland. I’ve been going to this event for a number of years now, and every time it feels like catching up with an old Scottish friend.
A true taste of Scotland in Harpenden
From the moment I arrived, the sound of pipe bands filled the air, and the bright tartan patterns danced across the field. The weather was on our side – blue skies, puffy clouds and just enough of a breeze to stop the competitors from overheating.
There’s something about the Highland Gathering that brings people together in the best possible way. Families spread out on picnic blankets, kids chased each other around, and everyone seemed to be smiling.
The heavy events: pure determination and grit
One of the biggest highlights for me every year is the heavy events. Putting the stone, Weight over the bar, Weight for distance and Tossing the caber. For me, these are the heart and soul of the gathering, and as a photographer, they’re an absolute gift to photograph. It's the excitement of capturing that split-second ‘moment’, the breath held just before the throw, the roar of the crowd as the caber lands, the instant a competitor realises they’ve nailed it. The explosive release, muscles at max, veins popping, sweat dripping, the gritted teeth… and that look, that look in the eyes, the steely, determined, unstoppable look. Anyhoo, you get where I’m coming from, well, I’m after a bit of that to capture in my pictures.
This year, there were eight competitors aged from 19 to 52. It was brilliant to see such a wide range of people stepping up, all united by the same goal, to throw, lift and hurl objects that most of us wouldn’t even dream of picking up.
The Tossing the Caber event always steals the show. Watching a 68kg, 18-foot pole get flipped end over end is something you have to see to believe. After a few shaky first attempts, some of the athletes pulled off incredible final throws. You could see the concentration etched on their faces, the strain in every muscle, and then the explosion of relief and pride when the caber landed cleanly at the coveted twelve o’clock position.
The competition was close this year, and you could feel the tension rise with each throw.
Beyond the cabers: family fun and quirky activities
Away from the heavy events, there was no shortage of entertainment. Pipe bands were marching proudly, stalls with archery, falconry displays, live music and even ferret racing. One of the most delightfully bizarre highlights was the Haggis hurling – a reminder that the Scots know how to have a laugh as much as they know how to throw a caber.
I love weaving through the crowds with my camera, following the noise and the laughter. These moments, when people let their guard down and are completely in the moment, are what make event photography so rewarding.
Perfect weather for perfect shots
The conditions this year were ideal. Strong sunlight gave everything a vibrant pop, from the shine on the caber’s to the bright reds and blues of the tartan. The slight breeze added life to every shot, catching kilts mid-swing and flags in full flight.
I always say that the best event images don’t just show what happened, they make you feel like you were right there. This year’s gathering was full of emotion, sweat and pure joy, and I couldn’t have asked for better scenes to capture.
Why do I keep coming back
I’ve attended the Harpenden Lions Highland Gathering for years now, and it never gets old. Every time, I come away reminded of how powerful community spirit can be. The pride in the Scottish traditions, the friendly rivalries, and the families making memories together, all of it makes for a brilliant day out and a photographer’s dream.
When I look back at my pictures, I can almost hear the bagpipes, the roar of the crowd and the deep thud as a heavy object hits the ground. I feel lucky to capture and preserve these moments, not just for those who were there, but for anyone who wants to relive the energy and spirit of the day.
If you get the chance, come along next year. Bring a picnic, cheer on the competitors, try your hand at archery, chuck a Haggis or just soak in the atmosphere.
To check out further great events I’ve been fortunate to photograph, click on this link 👉 Events
I photograph all kinds of events – from relaxed family celebrations and lively parties to sporting events, award ceremonies and large-scale corporate functions, capturing natural, story-led moments as they unfold.
Whether it’s a business launch, a charity fundraiser or a special occasion, I take a relaxed, candid and documentary-style approach that lets the day flow while I quietly capture the real atmosphere.
If you’ve got an event coming up and want images that reflect the spirit and energy of the day, I’d love to have a chat. Fill in the form below and I’ll get right back to you.