Edinburgh filmmaker recreates Forth Rail Bridge construction with incredible clip
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The construction of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge has been recreated by an Edinburgh filmmaker.
Walid Salhab, a lecturer at Queen Margaret University, used time-lapse filming, photography, and AI to create a short clip which shows the building of the bridge in the 1880s. The one-minute film shows workers 'beavering' away on the structure.
The Forth Rail Bridge was the first major structure in Britain to be made of steel, and resulted in the continuous East coast railway route from Aberdeen to London.
In recent years, Walid has become known for his portrayals of iconic buildings and structures around Edinburgh and Scotland.
He said: "I have always been fascinated by the enormity and beauty of the Forth Rail Bridge.
"Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has such an interesting history, and its application of science to architecture went on to profoundly influence mankind in ways beyond bridge-building. I've been doing time-lapses of the bridges in South Queensferry for a few years now.
"Over time, I've come across some amazing old photos of the Forth Rail Bridge being built. That got me thinking - what if I could create actual footage of the construction process using AI?
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"I started taking photos of the angles I wanted, and then used four different software programmes to put it all together, mixing in bits of the time-lapses I've shot over the years."
He continued: "The response has been incredible, and for some people, seeing the construction activity come to life has been quite emotional for them.
"I didn't realise just how much the rail bridge resonates with people until I started hearing from the grandchildren of those who helped build it - reaching out to thank me for bringing its story to life. The bridge obviously holds a very special place in people's hearts."
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