September 2025
- Ralph Tonge
- Sep 4
- 4 min read
Capturing the Magic of Lewis: A Summer of Festivals and Island Beauty
What a remarkable few months it has been here on the Isle of Lewis! As I write this, I'm reflecting on an incredibly busy and inspiring period that has taken my photography in exciting new directions while reinforcing my deep love for this extraordinary place we call home.
Festival Season: Where Music Meets Photography
This summer brought two fantastic opportunities to document the vibrant cultural scene that makes Lewis so special. HebCelt Festival once again proved why it's one of Scotland's most beloved music events. There's something magical about capturing performers against the backdrop of our stunning Hebridean landscape – the genuine joy on faces in the crowd, and those spontaneous moments between sets that tell the real story of what makes this festival so unique.
The energy was equally electric at Stramash Festival, where I had the privilege of documenting another celebration of music and community spirit. These events remind me why I love photographing people – it's not just about the technical aspects of lighting and composition, but about freezing those fleeting moments of pure human connection and joy.
And who could forget the explosion of colour at ColourRun Castle Grounds? What an absolute delight that was to photograph! The contrast of vibrant powdered paint against the historic castle grounds backdrop, combined with the laughter and determination of participants, created some of the most joyful images I've captured this year. Events like these showcase the playful, community-spirited side of island life that I love.
The Isle of Lewis: Nature's Perfect Studio
Between these bustling events, I've continued my love affair with Lewis's breathtaking landscapes. From the dramatic cliffs of the Butt of Lewis to the pristine beaches of the west coast, this island offers an ever-changing canvas that never fails to inspire. The way morning mist rolls across the moors, how the Atlantic light transforms our ancient standing stones, and the countless shades of blue and green that dance across our waters – it's a photographer's paradise.
But perhaps what makes these landscapes even more special are the people who inhabit them. The warmth, resilience, and genuine kindness of the Lewis community shine through in every portrait session and chance encounter. Whether it's sharing stories with people enjoying the magic of the beaches or capturing the proud faces of local musicians, the people of Lewis bring an authenticity and depth to my work that I treasure deeply.
Expanding Horizons
As I look toward the future, I'm excited to continue expanding my portfolio across different genres of photography. The festival work has ignited a passion for event photography that I'm eager to develop further, while my landscape work continues to evolve as I discover new perspectives on familiar scenes. I'm particularly interested in exploring more portrait work that celebrates the unique character of island life and the remarkable individuals who make this community so special.
New Offerings: Bringing Lewis to You
I'm thrilled that my popular Lewis calendars are available again, featuring some of my favorite captures from this incredible year. These calendars have become a wonderful way for both locals and visitors to keep a piece of Lewis close throughout the year, and I'm particularly excited about this year's selection of images. I am genuinely saddened and frustrated that I can no longer ship to the EU or USA due to increasing costs and bureacracy/political damage.
Even more exciting is the upcoming launch of my new range of greeting cards! These will feature a curated collection of my work celebrating our dramatic seascapes . Whether you're looking to share a piece of Lewis with loved ones far away or simply want beautiful, locally-created cards for any occasion, I believe these will offer something truly special. Keep an eye on my social media and website for the official launch announcement.
A Personal Thank You
Living and working as a photographer on the Isle of Lewis feels like a privilege every single day. The trust that this community places in me to document their special moments, the patience of subjects who let me capture their stories, and the endless inspiration provided by this remarkable landscape combine to create the perfect environment for creative growth.
To everyone who has supported my work, shared my posts, or simply offered an encouraging word – thank you. Your support means everything to a local creative business, and it's what makes projects like the new card range and continued calendar series possible.
As we move into autumn and winter, I'm looking forward to capturing Lewis in its more dramatic moods – the storm light, the cozy indoor gatherings, and all the seasonal beauty that makes island life so rich and varied. Here's to many more months of discovery, creativity, and celebration of this beautiful place and its wonderful people.
Follow my journey on social media and visit my website for updates on calendar availability and the exciting card range launch. Thank you for being part of the story.


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