Something new that I’m working on. Won’t you join me?
I’ve had this idea swirling in my head for some time, and I’m finally bringing it to life. The concept revolves around gothic and Victorian imagery, along with elements of Wiccan, Mother Earth/Gaia, Paganism, ghouls, ghosts, theatrical horror, the macabre, and so on. It also explores contrasting themes like innocence and light.
When I pitch this idea, people often ask for “inspo” images to understand my vision. The problem is, most searches return overly sexualized imagery. Now, I’m not opposed to that style and am happy to photograph it, but my aim is to elevate the the whole genre and infuse it with my own distinctive touch.
That’s why I’ve begun creating my own inspiration images, some of which you’ll see here. These sessions help me experiment with lighting, outfits, posing, and direction, while also scouting both indoor and outdoor locations to bring these concepts to life. I’m even diving into special effects, like environmentally safe smoke grenades, which is a new area for me.
This is a process of trial and error—figuring out what works and refining it. Recently, I added a candelabra, which brings an amazing vibe to the sessions. Just last weekend, I purchased a black veil, black opera gloves, and a bottle of fake blood to push things even further.
I’m always open to input and collaboration as this is very much a journey of growth. For example, I’m focusing on portraying elements like Wiccan beliefs authentically, aiming to capture their depth and meaning beyond just the surface aesthetics.
In conclusion, Spooky Sessions: Elevating Gothic, Wiccan, and Macabre Imagery is more than just a photographic experiment—it’s a journey into the depths of storytelling through visuals, blending elements of darkness, light, and everything in between. By focusing on authentic representation and pushing beyond the surface aesthetics, I aim to create images that are rich in atmosphere and meaning, tapping into both the eerie and the beautiful.
As this project continues to evolve, I’m excited to explore new ideas, techniques, and collaborations. Whether you’re inspired by gothic romance, Wiccan beliefs, or the raw emotion of theatrical horror, I invite you to join me on this creative journey. I welcome your thoughts, suggestions, and feedback—let’s work together to elevate the spooky genre.
Feel free to follow my progress and see more inspiration on my newly created Pinterest page, where I’ll be sharing works in progress and more. Let’s make something hauntingly beautiful together!
Mark Knopp is a seasoned professional portrait photographer with 40 years of experience both capturing stunning images and educating others in the art of photography. His expansive portfolio includes work throughout Hampton Roads, Richmond, select areas of North Carolina, and central New York, where he frequently travels to visit family and friends. If you’re looking to capture your unique essence in a portrait session, don’t hesitate to reach out to him at mknopp1(at)cox.net. Book your session today and let Mark help you create timeless images that you’ll cherish for years to come!
Photography by Mark K 