A Horror Classic
After celebrating my birthday in June, I jumped straight back into work — and what a way to return! I was back at the iconic Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy, once again photographing for the ever-impressive Playhouse Theatre Company, this time for their latest production: Carrie – The Musical, a stage adaptation of Stephen King’s classic horror novel.
Dark, Dramatic, and Full of Atmosphere
Carrie is no ordinary production. It's bold, eerie, and emotionally charged - a show that demands just as much from the lighting and staging as it does from the performers. With intense scenes, dramatic musical numbers, and a haunting atmosphere, it posed some interesting challenges for me as a photographer.
Much of the production was darkly lit, with flashes of stark, moody lighting to amplify the tension - a thrilling test for any theatre photographer. But where there are challenges, there are also opportunities. The shadows and contrast gave me a chance to capture some incredibly powerful and cinematic images, filled with emotion and intensity. From Carrie's isolated moments to the chaotic finale, every scene offered something visually gripping.
A Dream Team: Working Alongside Helios Media
Another highlight of the shoot was working alongside Ben from Helios Media, who was on videography for the production. I’ve collaborated with Ben on a few projects now, and it’s always an absolute pleasure.
Ben’s calm presence and creative eye make him a dream to work alongside during live events. We’ve developed a great rhythm - respecting each other’s space and finding ways to complement one another’s work, which is so important when you’re both documenting a fast-paced live performance. His cinematic videography style perfectly matched the tone of Carrie, and I can’t wait to see the finished footage.
It’s always great when photographers and videographers can collaborate seamlessly - and Ben is a brilliant example of how mutual respect and a shared creative vision can elevate the final result for everyone involved.
The Power of Live Theatre (and the Joy of Shooting It)
Photographing live theatre remains one of my favourite types of work. The unpredictability, the emotion, and the storytelling all come together in a unique way that makes every shoot feel different. Carrie was no exception — it was intense, scary, heartfelt, and incredibly well-performed by a talented cast who brought every character to life.
The Adam Smith Theatre continues to be a fantastic venue, and the Playhouse Theatre Company just keeps raising the bar with every production. I always feel lucky to be brought into their creative world, even for just a few days behind the scenes.
Need a theatre or event photographer in Fife or beyond?
Whether you're staging a high-octane musical or an intimate dramatic play, I’m here to help you capture the emotion, energy, and artistry of your production. Get in touch to discuss how we can bring your next performance to life — one frame at a time.
