Meet the photographer
Mauro Renzetti is an Edinburgh-based photographer whose work focusses on landscape and nature. Having studied film production in Rome, he reflects on his journey into photography, what draws him to capture life in Edinburgh, and the story behind the cover of our January/February issue.
What is it about Edinburgh that you enjoy documenting through your photographs?
The city’s historical and gothic atmosphere was the first thing that hit me, but as I got to know it better, I discovered many other aspects. Lately, I’ve been focusing on how the city changes and feels completely different depending on the weather, the light, and the season. Edinburgh feels like a small city but there’s really a lot to see and photograph.
How did you first get into photography?
I’ve been living in Edinburgh for five years, and photography was already a big part of my life before I moved there.
My passion for photography grew out of my love for cinema. I studied film production in Rome, but over time my focus gradually shifted toward photography. It wasn’t an immediate change, but a natural and progressive transition.
What are you hoping people feel when they see your photographs of the city?
Honestly, I hope to show not just the beauty of the city itself, but also the beauty of living in Edinburgh. There are moments when the city is simply stunning, like a calm sunset from Calton Hill or an unexpected snowfall on a winter morning, and I simply try to share those moments.
The cover photo of our latest issue is a beautiful image of a group scaling Salisbury Crags. Can you give some insight into the story behind this photo and how you came to capture it?
At that time, I was living on that side of the city, and I often went for walks up Arthur’s Seat, especially at sunset. I saw this group of young people on Salisbury Crags, they were heading up while I was already on my way down. It felt like a really beautiful image.
You can see Mauro’s photograph on the cover of the January/February 2026 issue of Edinburgh Life. Find him on Instagram at @maurenzetti
Print edition of Edinburgh Life (January & February 2026). Postage included in price.