An extraordinary archipelago

A BOOK featuring over 160 previously unpublished photos of Shetland was published last month.

Locally raised author and photographer James A. Pottinger has documented the isles’ striking landscapes and settlements in the History Press publication Shetland Islands.

The book often focuses Shetland’s connection with the surrounding seas, with pictures of the isles’ boats and harbours featuring prominently throughout.

It also captures the changing face of the archipelago over the last fifty years.

The images are joined by informative text captions that will be sure to teach visitors – and locals – something new.

Pottinger notes in the book’s introduction, however, that the photo collection isn’t supposed to act as a “comprehensive gazetteer or guidebook” to Shetland.

He adds: “Instead it is a celebration of the wonderful scenery and spectacular vistas seen around Shetland, all too often taken for granted in the round of daily activities.”

There is also a self-confessed “bias” in the book towards West and East Burra given the author’s “idyllic” upbringing in the area.

Outside of Burra, there are snaps from across the isles, including shots of Sumburgh, Lerwick, Scalloway and Hillswick.

Pottinger is a retired marine engineer who has served in the Merchant Navy.

He has previously released a number of maritime books through publisher History Press. These include Wooden Fishing Boats of Scotland and Clyde Built Ships.