Photographer spends two years capturing Caledonian Sleeper by drone

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 17:02 · Archive

A Glasgow photographer has created the Caledonian Sleeper's first calendar using drone images captured over two years.

Stephen Sweeney, a Glasgow photographer, has created the Caledonian Sleeper's first-ever calendar using twelve drone images captured over two years. The photographs showcase the train gliding through some of Scotland's most remote and dramatic landscapes, including the West Highlands, Cairngorms and rugged east coast. Each image captures a different point along the route, reflecting changing seasons and the diverse beauty of Scotland's countryside.

Sweeney began the project with a sunrise shot in Rannoch in the West Highlands and completed it with a summer picture in Angus this year. The work required careful planning and close collaboration with the Caledonian Sleeper team to identify optimal locations and times. Some shoots began as early as 3am to ensure Sweeney was in position before the train arrived.

Sweeney said the experience was a 'genuine joy', describing moments of waiting in cinematic locations whilst passengers slept aboard the train. 'There were some times I could hear the first sounds of the train arriving in the distance, from the noise of the tracks,' he explained. 'It was quite incredible, I would be waiting and then it would all be over within 20 seconds.' He described feeling 'so calm and peaceful' before the train suddenly appeared out of nowhere, surrounded by Scottish wildlife.

How it is being reported

• Glasgow photographer’s 3am quest for Caledonian Sleeper shots inspires new calendarCaledonian Sleeper’s first calendar features 12 drone images by Stephen Sweeney, showcasing Scotland’s Highlands, Cairngorms and coast. Buy for £15.95.Glasgow Times · 12 Oct, 15:58
• Man spent two years photographing Caledonian Sleeper by drone for new calendarA photographer spent two years using drones to capture images of the Caledonian Sleeper for a new calendarThe Herald · 12 Oct, 14:19

In this story: Stephen Sweeney · Caledonian Sleeper · Glasgow · Rannoch · West Highlands · Cairngorms · Angus

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