About us

Stills opened in 1977 as Scotland’s first gallery specialising in contemporary photography. Since then, we have extended our facilities and now provide the best photographic darkrooms and digital production facilities in Scotland. 

Stills is a vibrant platform for creativity. Our integrated programmes illuminate the fascinating medium of photography, exploring everything from its technical and aesthetic developments through to the central role it plays in contemporary culture.
Production and exchange form the heart of our activities as we work with artists and audiences to catalyse the creation of new ideas, artworks and dialogues.

Supporting artists is a core part of what we do - from research and production through to display and critical consideration. 

Commissions: We regularly commission artists to create new bodies of work for display in our internationally recognised gallery.

Residencies: Our unique artist residency programme supports the critical and technical development of 6 artists over a 12 month period.

Events: From artist talks and informal discussions through to workshops, camera clubs and film screening evenings, our events programme is a great way to get involved with the Stills community.

Specialised training: In addition to our comprehensive courses programme we offer bespoke artist-led training. Specialist areas range from Lomography to sound recording and web design, all tailored to suit your needs.

Subsidised open-access facilities: Stills’ new one-day pass or a monthly pass cards give you full access to all our Production Facilities, including Stills’ digital lab, photography darkrooms and video editing suite, enabling you to move freely between processing film and scanning, post production and printing without interruption.

Subsidised equipment hire: Everything from Digital SLR cameras and High Definition video cameras to portable studio lighting - all at much cheaper prices than commercial suppliers.

Professional development: To assist you in realising your ideas, The Cultural Enterprise Office are on-site to offer specialist business development services for creative and cultural practitioners and businesses.