This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Photographs 1842-61

Albums compiled by Prince Albert, reflecting his beliefs surrounding photography

AFTER DR ERNST BECKER (1826-88)

Group portrait at Balmoral

1892 copy after an original of Sep 1853

Carbon print | 10.5 x 12.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2905953

Photograph of a group of five Ghillies on the Balmoral estates. One man, second from the left, kneels whilst holding a telescope to his face. The two central figures are in conversation together and the man on the far right stands in left side profile holding a telescope. Among the ghillies are John Brown (1827-83), Johnnie Grant (1842-82) and John MacDonald (d.1860).

The 1892 carbon copy print is adhered over the top of the original albumen print.
  • Creator(s)

    After Dr Ernst Becker (1826-88) (photographer)

    Gustav William Henry Mullins (1854-1921) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    John MacDonald (d. 1860)
    John H MacDonald (d. 1860)
    John Grant (1810-79)
    John Brown (1826-83)
  • 10.5 x 12.5 cm (image)

  • From an album of photographs collected and arranged by Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • Scotland
            • Aberdeenshire [Scotland]
              • Balmoral Estate [Aberdeenshire]
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Agriculture and related techniques
        • Animal husbandry
          • Field sports (hunting, shooting, stalking)
            • Hunting methods
              • Stalking
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Clothing
          • Kilts
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs