the fraserburgh project

Nestled on the rugged coast of northeast Scotland, Fraserburgh stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Scotland’s maritime heritage. Known for its deep-sea fishing traditions and stunning coastal vistas, this historic town offers a vivid snapshot of a way of life that has been shaped by the relentless North Sea.

My long-term photographic project seeks to delve into the heart of Fraserburgh, capturing its essence through the lens of a Hasselblad 500C and the timeless quality of Ilford FP4 Plus 125 film. This combination of equipment and medium is not merely a choice of tools but a deliberate approach to embrace the town's rich textures, contrasts, and historical depth.

The Hasselblad 500C, renowned for its exceptional clarity and detail, allows me to explore Fraserburgh's landscapes and people with an intimate, tactile connection. Each frame, meticulously composed and captured on medium format film, aims to reveal the subtleties of the town’s atmosphere and the intricacies of its everyday life.

Ilford FP4 Plus 125 film, with its fine grain and wide tonal range, complements this exploration by providing a classic, enduring quality to the images. This film’s ability to render both shadow and light with striking accuracy mirrors the contrasts inherent in Fraserburgh’s coastal environment—where the harsh, wind-swept sea meets the resilient, close-knit community.

Over time, this project will unfold as a visual narrative, documenting the evolving story of Fraserburgh. Through portraits of its people, the dynamic interplay of light on its seascapes, and the quiet moments within its streets and harbor, I aim to offer a nuanced perspective of a town that remains a vital, living archive of Scotland’s maritime identity.

In this ongoing exploration, I invite viewers to witness Fraserburgh not just as a geographical location but as a vibrant chronicle of tradition and perseverance, captured through the lens of both past and present.