[Editorial] Gothic and Alternative Photography With Moss Photographic

Bold, striking and atmospheric, these photographs are completely different to your typical wedding, model and animal photography.

But Moss Photographic has created a unique style that blends a gothic mood with hues crafted by the shadows that provide the viewer with an image that creates a lasting impression. Owner and creator behind the brand, Maz Moss, started the company from scratch with purely a passion to do something that ignited the fire in her. Now established in the industry with a portfolio of dramatic horse portraits, moody wedding photography and horror-inspired model shots, I caught up with Maz to discover more about her craft and the future of her dark photography.  

When did you first know you wanted to get into photography as a profession?

I think as soon as I picked up a camera; my dad gave me one to play around with about 5 years ago. I have always been creative but never found my calling. Taking photographs isn’t enough for me, I have to be creative or artistic with my editing - that’s where the fun is for me!

What was it that inspired you to go down the dark, gothic and horror-esque vibes for photography?

It’s what appeals to me; I love dark and gothic vibes even in my wedding photography and portraits, I just love the feel of a dramatic photo and when it comes to horror shoots, there’s no limitations which makes it so much fun to do. It took me a while to find a style that suited all the types of photoshoots I do.

Although not strictly horror, you do feature a lot of dark and gothic elements across your photographic style, even with animals. Have you found this style has always been something you were interested in?

I’ve never been one for ‘light and airy’ or natural, I just love to create something that evokes a reaction or emotion, I want big pieces hung on the wall and I think when a photo doesn’t look like it does straight out of a camera it creates more of a wave. I want people to say ‘Wow!’... whether it’s a photo of their dog or their boyfriend's severed head, I want to create art. I think my style attracts a more alternative audience across all of my work.

What alternative photoshoot has been your favourite so far and why?

It’s a close one between two I’ve done with you! ‘Jilted’ which was actually a very simple shoot with only one prop and the tiniest bit of photoshop but we had a whole backstory about the ghost of a jilted bride and the entire vibe was just awesome. I love storytelling through photos. Another was ‘Blood Bath’, and yes it’s exactly how it sounds - we filled up a cast iron bath with fake blood and it was every bit as awesome as I expected, it was ambitious and messy but so worth it. Even if you did get a touch of hypothermia!

What advice would you give to others who are looking to get into the discipline of photography?

Not everyone is going to love what you do, so make sure it’s what you love. Be authentic, don’t be afraid of criticism and take a step back when you need to.

What other photographers do you take inspiration from?

Clinton Lofthouse for his photoshop skills for sure, he’s incredible. Tim Flach for his incredible portraits and Philippe Halsman because his work is just bonkers, he shows there’s really no limits! There’s inspiration everywhere, I don’t think we are ever done learning.

Are there any particular models that you would love to use one as the subjects of your images?

As an individual, someone like Dita Von Teese as I love her entire aesthetic, but my absolute goal would be a group of circus performers, I’d have a big top, proper old school costumes and all the crazy awesome acts. No animals though and no clowns either!

If you could recreate one horror film in photography without limitations, what would it be?

I’m a huge Stephen King fan so I’d love to come up with a portrayal of Pet Sematary - I have some ideas rattling around for that. I love the classics so maybe a spin on A Nightmare on Elm Street or Little Shop of Horrors!

You work alongside a lot of alternative women, especially models, what are your thoughts on the future of female creators and their voice in their communities?

I think women still have to fight a little harder to be recognised and taken seriously but I really think we are getting there. I surround myself with friends who are strong and ambitious in creative industries and my girls are at the top of their games.

A lot of social media platforms put limitations on content so it can be an uphill struggle having so much censorship and ‘red tape’ especially for the horror industry and many of the models I’ve worked with too. I have a daughter now and it’s important to me that she knows how awesome it is to be a woman and she can be anything she wants to be. We might have to shout a little louder and push a little harder but we are being heard and respected and I’ve been overwhelmed with the support and hype I see amongst creators, across all genders.

You can find out more about Moss Photographic on moss-photographic.com, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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