NICOLA Sturgeon is arguably one of the most photographed people in Scotland.

Here are a few snapshots from her first steps into politics to representing Scotland on the world stage.

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Sturgeon was the youngest candidate in Scotland when she first stood for election at 21.

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An early election for Sturgeon.

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Photo op with a young (L-R) John Swinney, Alex Salmond and Michael Russell.

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In the early days: Sturgeon and her now Deputy First Minister John Swinney.

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One of her first speeches in government when swine flu swept Scotland.

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Sturgeon and actor Alan Cumming in 2014 ahead of the indyref vote.

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Sturgeon being sworn in as the first female First Minister of Scotland.

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The FM is known for her down to earth warmth and charisma, compared to other politicians ...

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... and for being up for a laugh!

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Sturgeon thanked her constituency, Glasgow Southside, in her resignation speech.

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Sturgeon's appearance at the podium during Covid was both an anxiety-inducing and assuring sight for Scots.

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Her personalised mask increased the manufacturer's sales to breaking point, showing the influence Sturgeon had on public life.

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Coming out of the pandemic, Sturgeon represented Scotland at COP26, sharing Scotland's culture.

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... And met influential figures like climate activists Greta Thunberg and Vanessa Nakate.

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During Nicola Sturgeon’s time in office, support for independence surged.

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And finally, a wave from Bute House after her resignation.