THE journey of flowers from seed sowing to cutting the very first stem has been captured by a photography student.

Kay Hyde, of Edinburgh College, was given behind-the-scenes access at East Lothian Flower Farm for four months and created a series of images that document the process of Scottish flower growing.

Based on the Lennoxlove Estate, just outside Haddington, flower farmer Debbie Scott grows a variety of local flowers for events and retail florists, as well as floral arrangements for events and weddings.

Kay has been out to the farm in all weathers, shooting through the snow, rain and hail to give people a window into the world of sustainable Scottish flower growing.

Debbie said: “Lockdown was a time to experiment as, without weddings and events, we had to change our customer base.

“We have been hugely supported locally and hope to continue that relationship within East Lothian.”

Originally of Manchester, Kay decided to re-train as a photographer by joining the HND course after losing her job in tourism in York.

Kay, 58, who moved to Edinburgh for the photography course, said: “Debbie has inspired me so much and I was thrilled to take this series of images for her.

“The realities of working through all weathers was a real eye-opener for me and I’m delighted our partnership has benefitted us both during such a difficult time.”

Kay’s photographs were among the 150 taken by students on the HND and BA photography courses at Edinburgh College.

Graham McGirk, course leader, HND photography, said: “Kay’s documentary about East Lothian Flower Farm is insightful and beautiful and has earned her a grade A on the course.”