Goth culture often emphasizes dark, melancholic, and romantic aesthetics. Cemeteries, with their historical tombstones, gothic architecture, and serene, sometimes eerie atmosphere, align perfectly with this visual and emotional style.
So it shouldn’t come as a surprise to see goths in pictures near graves or tombstones.
However, I have heard some controversy around this topic, including people saying photoshoots on graveyards are inherently disrespectful. I disagree with this statement.
In the 19th century, cemeteries used to be parks where people would spend their free time, meet with family and friends, have a picnic in the shade of the trees or just spend some time alone and relax.
Many graveyards are still beautiful places with historical buildings or elements and it should come to no surprise that the calm and quiet atmosphere attracts many people, even outside of the goth subculture. Especially in this fast paced world, where most people are more used to loud and lively spaces.
I think the reluctant attitude about this topic comes from the fact that dealing with, or speaking about death, is still seen as a taboo by many.
Sometimes there might also be prejudices based on the actions of a few uneducated people, who were acting disrespectfully and casting a negative light on our subculture as a whole.
So I put together some guidelines to ensure you are respectful during your visit and especially while taking pictures in a cemetery!
1) General Behavior
- Observe any posted rules or guidelines specific to the cemetery you are visiting!
- Speak softly and keep noise to a minimum to maintain the peaceful atmosphere. Refrain from using loud electronic devices or playing music (such as TikTok sounds).
- Be mindful of services! – If there is a funeral or memorial service in progress, keep your distance and avoid disturbing those in attendance.
- Use some common sense, no dancing, no inappropriate outfits, posing or actions.
2) Interacting with Graves
- Respect the space and avoid stepping on, or walking directly over graves. Use paths and walkways whenever possible or stay on grass.
- Do not touch or remove flowers, mementos, or other personal items left on graves.
- Don’t sit on tombstones. (Maybe unless it belongs to the grave of a loved one, of whom you know for sure they wouldn’t mind.)
If you want to sit on a tombstone for a picture, I suggest looking for an old graveyard that has been turned into a park, any historic places and “memorial parks”. They often have memorials and objects similar to tombstones, that give off the same vibes and are perfect for pictures as there is no actual grave underneath. Make sure that you also follow local rules!
3) Photography and Documentation
- Ensure that taking pictures is permitted and be mindful of other visitors’ privacy.
- Find an empty corner and stay away from the main paths if possible. Avoid taking photos with others in the background, especially with people mourning, pictures of people that have been left on graves, or of services in progress.
- Leave unnecessary photography equipment at home. One or two models and a photographer won’t attract as much (negative) attention and people are less likely to even notice you and/or feel disturbed by your presence.
4) Cultural and Religious Sensitivities
- Be aware that different cultures and religions have various customs and practices regarding death and mourning. Be respectful and avoid actions that could be seen as intrusive or disrespectful.
5) Interaction with Nature
- Avoid picking flowers or damaging trees and plants.
- Take any trash with you and leave the area as you found it.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your visit to a graveyard is conducted with the utmost respect and consideration for both the deceased and their loved ones.
Everyone has their own views and ways of dealing with death and historical places. But considering the history of cemeteries, as long as you are respectful of the place and its visitors and use some common sense, there should be no issue with taking some pictures there.
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