How NY Mag's Mark Peterson Used Horror Lighting Techniques to Capture a Trump Inauguration Eve Party

Photography often borrows from cinema to tell a deeper story, and Mark Peterson’s images from a Trump “MAGA Victory Rally” on Inauguration Eve are no exception.

Peterson’s work cleverly draws on horror and film noir lighting conventions to create a dramatic, unsettling effect, and the work is so amazing in my opinion, I just had to share it.

Classic Film Noir / Gangster Shadows
In film noir, characters often cast long, looming shadows on the walls or ceilings. These shadows mirror the tension, mystery, or danger in the scene. Peterson’s photograph of three individuals creating extended silhouettes on the background evokes the noir/gangster vibe.

Gesturing with “Finger Guns”
This shot shows a subject making “finger guns” and pointing at someone while laughing maniacally. This playful yet aggressive gesture creates a menacing and unhinged energy in the shot.

The “Monster” Up-light

Lighting from below can cast ominous shadows, a staple in classic horror, making them look evil and unsettling.

A Nod To The Greatest Horror Film Of Them All

This shot, which was used as the cover photo, seems to purposefully reference Kubrick’s The Shining.