Mind Games: A Carrie-Inspired Photoshoot

In the world of cinema, few films have left an indelible mark on the horror genre quite like Brian De Palma's 1976 classic, "Carrie." For those of you who may not know, the film tells the tragic tale of a teenage girl with telekinetic powers who is pushed to the brink of madness by relentless bullying. The iconic prom scene where Carrie is drenched in blood has become a hallmark of horror cinema. Being inspired by the Halloween season, I wanted to retell Carrie White’s tragic story through a boudoir-focused lens alongside my friends and colleagues, Cassadie Dobson (hair and makeup) and Calli Moon (model).

To bring this photoshoot to life, I began by carefully selecting a location that would evoke the eerie atmosphere of Carrie White’s home. Many have recreated the prom scene in a gymnasium but I wanted to photograph Carrie in her most natural element. We opted for a rather outdated house rental where I had the option of using warm, practical lighting through overhead and lamp light. My goal was to create a cinematic atmosphere inspired by the movie itself.

In designing the wardrobe, we drew inspiration from the film's iconic prom scene. To transition Carrie’s notorious pink, satin gown into a boudoir inspired theme, I searched for lingerie sets made of sateen and other reflective fabrics. I went with a babydoll set to represent Carrie’s pure and innocent nature.

The makeup and hair design were crucial elements in capturing the essence of Carrie. Cass expertly crafted a look that blended modern glam with unsettling elements. Soft blue tones and a hint of shimmer conveyed youthful naivety, while deep red rhinestones mimicked pig’s blood to play on the chaotic events Carrie experienced at her Senior Prom.

The "Carrie"-inspired photoshoot was a thrilling exploration of the duality of human nature, the interplay between vulnerability, strength, and even madness. By paying homage to this iconic film, I aimed to capture the enduring resonance of "Carrie" while also bringing a fresh perspective to its themes. I hope you enjoy seeing these photos as much as I did making them. Stay spooky, friends!

xx

Kal