A word of caution to those who have yet to visit Neist Point: this iconic location on the Isle of Skye is as unforgiving as it is breathtaking. Known for its dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and the famous lighthouse perched on its edge, Neist Point is also notorious for its wild and windy conditions.
Despite my numerous visits—at least six attempts to date—I have yet to capture an image that truly satisfies me. Each time, the unpredictable weather has thwarted my efforts, leaving me to return home empty-handed. The ideal conditions for photography there are exceptionally rare: no wind, no rain, clear skies free of low clouds, and a perfect sunset. Given Skye’s notoriously erratic weather, it is little wonder that my attempts have so far been unsuccessful.
However, during one of my photography workshops, fortune finally smiled upon us. The weather was unusually cooperative—calm, dry, and free of the relentless wind that so often defines this location. While the sunset itself remained elusive, the atmosphere was imbued with a soft, ethereal light that created a truly magical mood. As a workshop leader, I typically refrain from taking my own photographs, preferring to focus on guiding my clients. But on this occasion, with everyone fully engaged and enjoying their photography, I found a moment to seize the opportunity. The result was this image, a rare success amidst countless challenges.
Neist Point remains a place of immense beauty and frustration in equal measure. For those willing to brave its unpredictable conditions, the rewards can be extraordinary—but patience and persistence are essential. As my experience demonstrates, even in the face of repeated setbacks, the perfect moment can eventually arrive, making all the effort worthwhile.
If you are interested in visiting the area, please have a look at my series of eBooks. They will assist you in finding photographic locations with remarkable precision. I share all my knowledge about various places, supported by countless hours of research, both online and on location. The ebooks are available as PDF files and can be read on PCs, Macs, iPads, Android, and most small devices. All images in the ebooks are high definition and may be printed for personal use only.
