02/07/2026
A Scottish Folklore Story - Finella
I came across The Den of Finella whilst scrolling on here one day, I started looking up the history of it and the folklore story attached. I then couldnt shift the idea of creating a photo shoot to go with the story….
Lady Finella lived from about 950 to about 995 near Fettercairn.
The story goes that Lady Finella’s son was killed, probably in battle by King Kenneth II and she set out to take her revenge. After killing Kenneth, Lady Finella fled towards the coast. She was eventually cornered by Kenneth’s men in a valley at a waterfall near St Cyrus. Today known as “Den of Finella”, and according to the folklore, it was here that Lady Finella threw herself to her death from the top of the waterfall to avoid capture.
Big thank you to the wonderful team of local creatives for joining me, making the shoot more epic than I imagined (and for saving my equipment from falling in the water!)
Team-
Donna
Theresa Christie | Aberdeen Wedding Photographer - assistant shooter & change of clothes provider
Wild & Coral - content and equipment saver
Natali•Model•Content Creator - THE perfect Finella
Lorna - Wedding and Event Florals - nature crown & florist extraordinaire
Gosia Weiss make up & hair queen
Flossy & Dossy | Bespoke Bridal - providing the beautiful handmade lace dress for when Finella is on the run at St Cyrus beach.
Scottish Folklore | Den Of Finella | Aberdeen Photographer
Disclaimer: This waterfall area can be dangerous. The path down is steep and slippery. We went in perfect conditions when the path was completely dry. Visit at your own risk and take full responsibility for your safety.