Mastering Gothic Ghostly Photography: A Guide Inspired by Simon Marsden
Updated: Mar 3
Understanding Simon Marsden’s Style
Simon Marsden’s photographs are instantly recognizable for their moody, monochrome tones and spectral ambiance. He focused on Gothic architecture, ruins, and landscapes that suggest stories from the past. Marsden himself shot with film exclusively, using Kodak HIE-135 infrared. This film was discontinued in 2007, but I occasionally turn up an old roll, usually twenty to thirty years past its use-by date, and still manage to get some images out of it. (see above image) His technique was to shoot this film at around 200 ISO with a red filter on the lens, enabling him to handhold most shots.
Because infrared works with strong light, most of his ghostly images would be shot on bright summer days to gather as much light as possible. This seems counterintuitive when you look at his dark Gothic works. His images often feature:
High contrast black and white (infrared)
Soft, diffused lighting that enhances texture
Mist or fog to add mystery
Composition that emphasizes decay and solitude
Knowing these elements helps you plan your shots and post-processing to replicate the mood without needing specialized cameras or lenses. It is also important to remember that Marsden would spend hours in the darkroom mechanically dodging and burning to get the look he wanted, so don't be afraid to employ this technique digitally!
Choosing the Right Location and Time
Marsden’s work thrived on atmosphere. You don’t need a castle or ruin, but look for places with:
Old stone buildings, arches, or walls
Overgrown gardens or cemeteries
Quiet, isolated spots with minimal modern distractions
If your desire is to create these Gothic ghostly images authentically using his favoured Nikon F2 and Kodak film, as I have done, then look for the above on bright days to really use the light to your advantage. However, getting those ghostly Gothic images is possible with modern techniques.
Using Your Existing Camera and Lens
You don’t need a high-end camera to create Gothic ghostly images. Here’s how to make the most of your current gear:
Camera: Any DSLR, mirrorless, or even advanced compact cameras can work. Manual mode is helpful but not essential.
Lens: A standard zoom or prime lens between 35mm and 85mm is ideal for framing architectural details and landscapes.
Tripod: If you have one, use it for stability during long exposures. If not, steady your camera on a solid surface.
Filters: Neutral density (ND) filters help extend exposure times in daylight, but if you don’t have one, shoot during low light conditions.
Monochrome: Shoot in monochrome and make sure your picture style is set to this rather than converting from colour. By doing this, you will start to SEE in monochrome, which will help with the composition, look, and feel of the image.
Light: Where the light is coming from and how much is extremely important. Shooting into the light often works well.
Night: Shooting at night and only having artificial light or moonlight for your image is a great way to bring out the Gothic ghosts in an image. You will often need a tripod here, but don't be afraid to up the ISO; you want that grain to replicate Simon Marsden's image style.
Capturing Ghostly Effects In-Camera
To create the ghostly feel without heavy editing, try these techniques:
Long Exposure: Use slow shutter speeds (1-10 seconds or longer) to blur moving elements like fog, clouds, or tree branches. This adds an ethereal quality.
Double Exposure: Some cameras allow in-camera multiple exposures. Overlay a silhouette or a faint figure to suggest a ghostly presence.
Selective Focus: Use shallow depth of field to isolate details like cracked stone or twisted branches, blurring the background for a dreamy effect.
Post-Processing to Enhance the Gothic Look
Editing is where you can really bring out the ghostly qualities. Use software like Lightroom, Photoshop, or Affinity Photo. Focus on:
Convert to Black and White: Adjust contrast and brightness to create deep blacks and bright highlights.
Add Grain: Introduce film grain or noise to mimic vintage film textures.
Increase Clarity and Texture: Bring out details in stone, wood, and fog.
Use Vignetting: Darken edges to draw attention to the centre and add a mysterious frame.
Adjust Shadows and Highlights: Soften shadows or brighten highlights to create a surreal atmosphere.
Add Fog or Mist: Use brushes or overlays subtly to enhance natural fog or create it if absent.
Practical Example: Shooting a Gothic Archway
Imagine you find an old stone archway covered in moss on a foggy morning. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Set your camera on a tripod and frame the archway at eye level.
Use a 50mm lens at f/8 for sharpness and depth.
Set ISO to 100 for minimal noise.
Choose a shutter speed of 5 seconds to blur any moving fog or leaves.
Shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility.
In post-processing, convert to black and white, increase contrast, add grain, and apply a subtle vignette.
This method captures the timeless, ghostly essence Marsden achieved without needing special gear.
Tips for Creating Your Own Ghostly Figures
If you want to add ghostly figures to your images:
Use a slow shutter speed and have a person move slowly through the frame, creating a transparent effect.
Shoot multiple exposures and blend them in editing software.
Use white or light-coloured clothing to enhance the ghostly appearance.
Keep the figure subtle to maintain the eerie mood rather than a clear portrait.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Avoid cluttered backgrounds that distract from the Gothic subject.
Don’t rely too heavily on digital effects; aim for natural-looking ghostliness.
Be patient with lighting and weather conditions; the right atmosphere is key.
Final Thoughts on Crafting Gothic Ghostly Images
You don’t need expensive equipment to create haunting, atmospheric photographs inspired by Simon Marsden. Focus on location, lighting, and composition, then use your existing camera and lenses creatively. Experiment with long exposures, black and white, and subtle post-processing to bring out the eerie beauty of Gothic scenes. With practice, your images will carry the same mysterious spirit that defines Marsden’s work.
Creating your own Gothic ghostly photographs can be a rewarding journey. So, grab your camera and start exploring! You might just capture something magical.
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