20 May 2025
The Engine Shed, Stirling

SHIFTING PERSPECTIVES: SCOTLAND’S URBAN ARCHITECTURE THROUGH THE LENS

Studies in Photography is holding a major conference on Tuesday 20^th May 2025 in The Engine Shed, Stirling. Studies in Photography is grateful for the support of Historic Environment Scotland in hosting the event.

OVERVIEW
The conference will explore how photography has shaped and recorded the urban architectural heritage of Scotland. By examining Scottish photography from the 1840s to the present day, architectural styles, photographic records, and the influence of new technologies, the conference will provide a comprehensive look at how cities and towns have been represented and perceived through the lens. Academics, students, architects, photographers, and cultural historians will gather to discuss how photography influences not only the perception of Scotland’s built environment but also the way our modern towns and cities are planned and designed. 

CONFERENCE THEMES INCLUDE:

●     How early photographers recorded urban buildings and spaces

●     Documenting and preserving architectural heritage through photography

●     Architectural styles and photographic representation – from medieval to modernism and beyond

●     The cultural and social Impact of architectural photography

●     Technological innovation in architectural photography

 Speakers will be expected to deliver a 20-minute presentation and contribute to short Q&A sessions. We expect most presentations will be in-person but a small number of online speaking slots for speakers who are unable to attend will be available.

If you would like to submit a paper or a topic to present on, please email a proposal to John Pelan. Proposals should include the topic of your presentation, a short biography of the presenter(s) and the name of your organisation (if applicable). Expressions should also indicate if you would like to present in person or online. Submissions should not exceed 500 words.

Speakers will have their conference attendance fee and reasonable travel expenses (within Scotland only) covered. Unfortunately, as a small charity, Studies in Photography is not able to offer speaker fees.

If you would like to discuss the event before submitting a paper then please contact John Pelan, Chair, Studies in Photography

Key dates:

14/02/25 – Call for papers

28/02/25 – Outline programme published and conference open for early bookings

24/03/25 – DEADLINE FOR PAPERS/PROPOSALS

14/04/25 – Full and final programme published

20/05/25 – Conference takes place in The Engine Shed, Stirling

Additional Information:

The Engine Shed is Historic Environment Scotland’s dedicated building conservation centre. It is conveniently situated on Forthside Way, just a few minutes’ walk from Stirling railway station.

The conference talks will start at 10:00 with registration from 09:30. The event will close at 16:00. To book your place, visit our Eventbrite page for more info.

Contact: John Pelan, chair@studiesinphotography.com

Supporters:
Historic Environment Scotland
Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
Scottish Council on Archives

Image detail: Giuseppe Milo, Riverside Museum Glasgow Scotland Black And White Architecture Photography, 2015