Tips for Taking the Swilcan Bridge Photo

Perhaps more than any other sport, the game of golf is blessed with an abundance of Kodak Moments. This is especially true on the links across the pond, where the combination of history and seaside vistas make for some idyllic photographs. The 7th at Royal Dornoch, the 9th at both Turnberry and Royal County Down, and nearly every hole on the Old Head of Kinsale are popular “Been there, got the photo” spots. However no other postcard worthy moment on golf’s globe can match the Swilcan Bridge at The Old Course of St. Andrews.

Each year, we receive dozens of Field Reports from our Expeditionary Forces on that historic little bridge. For some, the dream of taking that photo has been a long time coming. For others, it’s a somewhat regular occurrence. But regardless if it’s your first or tenth round on The Old Course, everyone with St. Andrews tee times wants their own version of this famous snapshot. Here’s a few tips to help ensure yours turns out just right.

Ready Golf

You’ve come a long way, and possibly waited a long time, to take this photo. But keep in mind that The Old Course is a busy place – most of the golfers you'll see are also living out their dream golf trip to St. Andrews.

This is no time to be fumbling around in the golf bag for your phone or camera. Every second saved as you approach the bridge is an extra frame in the camera roll which just might end up in the frame at home. Not to mention that your caddies, the course marshall, and the groups behind will all appreciate your efficiency.

Tip: As you walk off the 17th green, have your device out and ready to go. Perhaps even pass it off to your caddie, so you can focus on the task at hand… Finding the 18th fairway.

Remember the Skyline

This is, without a doubt, the most important component of a great Swilcan Bridge photo. It’s important to remember that the subject of the picture is far more than just you and a wee bridge. The 18th green, R&A clubhouse, Hamilton Grand, and the buildings lining the fairway are all landmarks in their own right. If those icons are missing because the photo was taken from the wrong angle, or you’re standing in the way, the quality of the photo will suffer.

Tip: Ask whoever is taking your photo to position themselves on the left of the bridge as you approach it from the tee. This will ensure that most, if not all, of the famous St. Andrews skyline will end up in the photo.

Rise and Shine

As mentioned earlier, The Old Course is a very busy place. There’s also a properly functioning road that cuts across the fairway, right through that backdrop you’ve remembered to capture. No one should have their Swilcan Bridge photo cluttered up by a camper van on Granny Clark’s Wynd or a bus full of tourists lingering in the background.

Tip: Walk out to the Swilcan Bridge early in the morning. You’ll likely have it all to yourself and can take all the time you need to get that perfect shot.

Pic for Pic

If you spend any amount of time in St. Andrews, you’re likely to see dozens of people taking their own Swilcan Bridge photo. In many cases, it’s a small group taking turns with the camera, or struggling as they attempt to get a selfie just right.

Tip: Offer to take their pic together and have them take yours. You’ll make a new friend, a memory for them, and no one will be left out of your photo because they were stuck behind the camera.

Strike A Pose

Matching shirts? The Nicklaus one leg up? Sitting down? The Arnie cap in the air? There’s no right way to pose for the photo, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun and make it your own.

Finally, while we’ve been fortunate to help make the Swilcan Bridge photo possible for thousands of golfers, there’s someone who has been behind the camera for thousands more. Kevin Kirk, founder of Recounter and the official photographer for the St. Andrews Links Trust, offers up a little of his wisdom…

“The number one rule is composition. Whether it’s 1, 2 or 4 golfers, I’d recommend centering them bang in-between the R&A clubhouse and the Hamilton Grand. If you can’t see the Martyrs Monument in the distance, you’ve probably done perfect.”

So there you have it… A few helpful tips for capturing an Instagram worthy memory in St. Andrews. And speaking of Instagram, be sure to tag us @HavershamBaker in your own Swilcan Bridge photo. Major Haversham will be anxious to learn if this intel proved helpful.