Dark and moody photography, Los Angeles moody photoshoot, Cinematic photography in LA

When I first heard about the LA Ghosts: Terrors of Tinseltown Tour, I was intrigued. A walking tour through some of the most iconic (and haunted) locations in Los Angeles? Count me in. As a photographer, I’m always drawn to places with rich history and atmosphere, and this tour promised both in spades. Plus, I love everything about spooky season, so it was right up my alley. From the Roosevelt Hotel to the Chinese Theatre, each stop had its own eerie charm, and I couldn’t wait to lean into moody photography and capture it all through my lens.

If you’re someone who loves the drama and mystery of a moody photoshoot, you’re in the right place. I’m sharing how I use lighting, shadows, and storytelling to create that hauntingly beautiful vibe. Whether it’s a historic building, a ghostly Hollywood landmark, or even a portrait session with a touch of mystery, these techniques help me bring out the emotion and atmosphere in every shot. Let’s dive into the magic of capturing the moody and mysterious with cinematic photography.

Setting the Scene: A Ghost Tour in Hollywood

The tour began on Hollywood Boulevard, where the glitz and glamour of Tinseltown meet the shadows of its darker past. Heather, our guide, was a master storyteller, weaving tales of tragedy and mystery as we stopped at landmarks like the El Capitan Theatre, the Chinese Theatre, the Roosevelt Hotel, and the Magic Castle. Each location had its own ghostly lore — whispers of untimely deaths, lingering spirits, and Hollywood’s hidden tragedies.

As we walked, I couldn’t help but imagine how these spaces could serve as the perfect backdrop for a moody photoshoot. The soft glow of neon lights, the dramatic shadows cast by towering buildings, and the rich textures of weathered walls all came together to create an atmosphere that felt both cinematic and intimate. It’s the kind of setting that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a story, and that’s exactly what dark and moody photography is all about.

How To Create Moody, Atmospheric Portraits

Taking pictures in low light or dramatic settings can be a challenge, but it’s also where the magic happens. Here’s how I approach creating those hauntingly beautiful images that feel like they belong in a storybook.

1. Lighting: Embrace the Shadows

Lighting is everything when it comes to creating the mood. For this ghost tour, I didn’t use a flash at all. Instead, I relied on the natural light sources around me — streetlights, neon signs, and even the faint glow of the moon. Shadows became my best friend, adding depth and drama to every shot, something that often goes against “photographer philosophy.”

When photographing people, I use shadows to sculpt the face and create a sense of mystery. A soft shadow across the eyes or a silhouette against a glowing background can completely transform the mood of a portrait. It’s all about finding that balance between light and dark to tell a story.

2. Perspective: Find the Drama

The way you frame a shot can make all the difference. During the tour, I experimented with angles to make the locations feel larger than life. Shooting from a low angle made the towering buildings feel even more imposing, while close-ups of textures like cracked walls or faded signage added a sense of intimacy.

When working with people, I use perspective to highlight their connection to the space. A wide shot of someone standing in front of the Roosevelt Hotel, framed by its glowing marquee, tells a completely different story than a close-up of their face lit by the soft glow of a streetlamp. Both are beautiful, but each evokes a unique emotion.

3. Details: Texture Tells a Story

Texture is one of my favorite storytelling tools. On the ghost tour, I was drawn to the cracked paint on old walls, the intricate carvings on theatre marquees, and the weathered handprints in front of the Chinese Theatre. These details add layers to the story and make the images feel alive.

When photographing people, I look for ways to incorporate texture into the shot. A hand resting on a wooden railing or the soft texture of hair catching the light can add depth and emotion to a portrait. It’s these small details that make an image feel rich and full of life.

Incorporating the Environment (When It Fits)

While a beautiful setting can certainly enhance a photo, it’s not the only way to tell a story. A skilled photographer can create compelling portraits and evoke emotion even without the “perfect” backdrop. On the ghost tour, the locations themselves were rich with history and atmosphere, but my focus was on capturing the mood and details that brought the story to life, whether that was a glowing marquee, a shadowy corner, or the texture of a weathered wall.

When I plan a photoshoot, I think about how the environment can enhance the story we’re telling. Whether it’s a foggy forest, a historic building, or a quiet city street, the setting becomes a character in the story, working in harmony with the subject.

Want To Capture Your Story with Dark and Moody Photography?

The ghost tour was an unforgettable experience, not just for the stories but for the creative inspiration it sparked. It reminded me of why I love what I do — capturing the beauty, emotion, and atmosphere that make every person and place unique.

If you’re drawn to the drama and mystery of cinematic photography, I’d love to help you tell your story through a moody photoshoot. Whether it’s a solo session, a couple’s shoot, or even a family portrait with a touch of magic, we can create the vibe you’re looking for!

And here’s a little treat for you: Subscribe to my newsletter during the month of October 2025, and you’ll receive 10% off your next ghost tour in LA.

Don’t miss out on this chance to explore the haunted side of Hollywood — and maybe even capture a few ghostly moments of your own. And if you’re ready for your own dark and moody photoshoot, get in touch with me today!