Today is Remembrance Sunday. This morning, I went to the Royal Mile to film the parade. The procession began at the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle and made its way down to the City Chambers for the remembrance ceremony. Leading the march were the RAF Central Scotland Pipes & Drums, followed by veterans’ detachments and Tri-Service Cadets. The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland accompanied the contingents of the Royal Navy, the Royal Regiment of Scotland, and the RAF. The First Minister of Scotland and other dignitaries were in attendance. Despite the rain, the streets were lined with spectators, and the entire event felt both solemn and profoundly moving.
This was my first time capturing the occasion on video. I still remember my first Remembrance Sunday back in 2012 in London — I happened to be there for a work trip and came across the parade by chance. It was such a grand and dignified ceremony that I was deeply moved and took countless photos. Time truly flies — 13 years have passed in the blink of an eye. I just rediscovered those old photos on an external hard drive and selected ten of them to share with friends today.
144 - 8
My son has been studying the Battle of Waterloo over the past few days. He has learned about the date, background, and belligerents of the battle, and also watched the 1970 film Waterloo. Through this, he came to know more about Napoleon and Wellington.
Just this past Sunday, I took him to Edinburgh Castle, where we visited the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum. There, we were able to see up close some remarkable trophies from the Battle of Waterloo — the regimental colour of Napoleon’s 45th Infantry Regiment and the bronze eagle that once topped it. These were seized during the first charge by Charles Ewart of the Scots Greys. After many twists and turns, they are now preserved in the museum. Today, the eagle has become the cap badge and collar badge of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
We also viewed an oil painting depicting Charles Ewart fighting bravely at Waterloo and capturing the French standard. Charles Ewart became a hero and a legend upon his return to Britain. He died at the age of 77 in 1846 and was originally buried in a chapel’s graveyard in Manchester. The grave was paved over and forgotten for many years, until it was rediscovered in the 1930s. In 1938, his remains were reburied by the Royal Scots Greys on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle.
We paid our respects at Charles Ewart’s grave, passed by the pub named in his honour, and finally made our way to the Wellington statue, where we took a photo to commemorate the visit.
56 - 2
Ten days ago, on September 20th, I visited the small town of Lochgilphead and filmed the Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS) marching for the Freedom of Argyll and Bute. The parade was led by the 2 SCOTS Pipes and Drums, accompanied by the regiment’s beloved mascot, Corporal Cruachan IV — an adorable Shetland pony.
I travelled from Edinburgh by bus to Glasgow, then changed buses north along Loch Lomond before heading west, making the entire round trip about eight hours. Since filming the regiment’s march in Linlithgow back in June, it was a great honour and joy to capture the Royal Regiment of Scotland again, this time in such a remote town in western Scotland.
The scenery along the way and in Lochgilphead itself was absolutely charming. Here are a few snapshots I took to share with friends — thank you all for watching and following my journey.
34 - 4
I took these photos on 2nd July, 2012, capturing the ceremonial guards marching out after the Ceremony of the Keys at the Palace of Holyroodhouse during Royal Week in Edinburgh. Back then, I was passionate about photographing all aspects of Edinburgh. But times have changed — nowadays, more and more people prefer watching videos. So I gradually shifted to filming, and over time, I’ve built a growing collection of videos showcasing this beautiful city.
In 2025, I once again documented Royal Week in Edinburgh and have published two new videos — I warmly invite you to check them out!
https://youtu.be/-azJmI5U6m8?si=er5_Q...
https://youtu.be/Uu3Zr5QJs7M?si=O7wYU...
I’ve also noticed some changes in the ceremony itself. In the past, the Ceremony of the Keys took place in the palace’s forecourt, where passersby could catch glimpses through the main iron gates and even film parts of the event. However, the ceremony has now been moved to the back garden, making it no longer visible to the public. Additionally, this time, the area where the guards and military band form up and dismiss was fenced off, keeping the public further away.
91 - 0
Today is Armed Forces Day. The first time I photographed Armed Forces Day was in 2012. Time flies — 13 years have already passed. The little girl dancing in the photo must be working now! And the little boy dressed in a navy uniform may have become a real soldier by now. That year, the celebration took place in Princes Street Gardens. Armed Forces Day 2025, I returned again, but this time I focused mainly on capturing video. I hope to edit it soon and share it with friends.
31 - 2
Cruachan IV, the Shetland pony and official mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, has received more medals than most soldiers! The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland — their full ceremonial uniforms look awesome! But I’ve always wondered how the drum major manages to find his way with that massive bearskin on!
61 - 4
Hi, I'm Yao Hui — a Chinese photographer based in Edinburgh, Scotland. I'm passionate about Scotland's unique culture, stunning streetscapes, and rich history.
Since moving here from China in 2010, I've spent years photographing this incredible city. More recently, I’ve started filming short videos and vlogs to capture the magic of Edinburgh and share it with viewers around the world.
On this channel, you’ll find glimpses of Scottish traditions, everyday life, parades, bagpipes, and the charm of old streets — all seen through my lens.
I live with my wife, son, and our cat Sugar. I also love camping, drawing, painting, and practicing Chinese calligraphy. Thanks for stopping by — hope you enjoy the journey!
Joined 24 August 2007