# Life Comes Full Circle > Gothic Horror Photography of Amanda Norman ## Posts - [The Skeleton Holding a Book](https://amandanorman.com/skeleton-holding-a-book/): I can still remember now standing in awe at the skeleton holding a book high upon a tomb in Greyfriar’s kirkyard. It’s a perfect example of how the dead speak to us still beyond their grave. Memento Mori Photography in Edinburgh Edinburgh was my choice of city break purely based on the magnificent old kirkyard […] - [Bell on a Headstone Meaning](https://amandanorman.com/bell-on-a-headstone-meaning/): Here I explain the meaning of a bell on a headstone while introducing you to one of my favourite photographs. You can find this remarkable headstone in Middlebie Churchyard, Dumfries. The name of the one who lies beneath is Robert Bell who died in 1739 aged 32. Source: Canmore Dying at the age of just […] - [Mortality Symbols and Memento Mori](https://amandanorman.com/mortality-symbols-and-memento-mori/): Mortality symbols and Memento Mori are related concepts, but they have distinct meanings and purposes. Today, I will explore these concepts using some of my favourite images together with my own thoughts on the subject. What are mortality symbols? Firstly, mortality symbols, as the name suggests, are visual representations of death commonly found on ancient […] - [The Legend of George and Kitty Smith](https://amandanorman.com/the-legend-of-george-and-kitty-smith/): George and Kitty Smith of Billinge in Merseyside most certainly still speak to us from their spectacular grave found in St Aidan’s churchyard. With this being such a grand example of Memento Mori, I began my quest to find out more about the Smiths. My research didn’t disappoint me as I began reading about the […] - [Dance of Death](https://amandanorman.com/dance-of-death/): The Danse Macabre translates into English as the Dance of Death. It is a medieval allegory that reminds folk about Memento Mori. No matter what one’s status is in life, the dance of death unites all. Furthermore, this can most certainly be viewed as the origins of Memento Mori. Don’t ask me why, but images […] - [Cemetery Death Heads](https://amandanorman.com/cemetery-death-heads/): Cemetery death heads, is my look at the changing fashion of a skull and crossbones in funeral art. Therefore, if you wonder why someone would like a skull and crossbones on their headstone, then look no further. But first, let us begin with the classic skull and crossbones that most of us are familiar with. […] - [Victorian Death Photography and their Superstitions](https://amandanorman.com/victorian-death/): Victorian death is a fascinating topic to explore that will incite lots of conversation. How much do you know about their superstitions and rituals following the death of a loved one? The Victorians certainly had their fascinating customs when it came to death. I’ve included a few of my favourites below and I would love […] - [Moon Magic and the Tarot](https://amandanorman.com/be-guided-by-the-moon/): In this post, I bring together three of my favourite things. Moon Magic, Tarot and of course, photography. I’ve always been captivated by the moon and her beauty, but it wasn’t until recently that I discovered how to use her energy. Furthermore, she has helped me to transform my life with her beautiful magic. To […] - [My love of Gothic horror inspires my photography](https://amandanorman.com/gothic-horror-photography/): My style of Gothic horror photography consists mainly of photographing graveyards, creepy locations and alternative portraits. Furthermore, the sense of peace and freedom I get from photographing these locations, is a form of self-therapy. Take for example the photograph below titled, The Beauty of Daresbury. When visiting this graveyard and looking around, my senses are […] - [The Tree of Souls is Calling](https://amandanorman.com/tree-of-souls/): The Tree of Souls that stands at the edge of the graveyard, continually draws me in every time I visit Heysham. - [Shadows of Heysham](https://amandanorman.com/shadows-of-heysham/): Shadows of Heysham is a series of photographs that allows me to explore my mental health, and my battle with anxiety. - [It is Important to Live life NOW!](https://amandanorman.com/live-life-for-today/): I love the art of Memento Mori in old graveyards and paintings from long ago, but right now, I'm thinking of how relevant the message behind this imagery is, especially with the Coronavirus outbreak. - [The Beautiful Ruins of Moreton Corbet](https://amandanorman.com/ruins-of-moreton-corbet/): Moreton Corbet Castle in Shropshire is a beautiful mansion in ruins, which is well worth photographing. Although, not creepy, I could definitely feel ghostly echoes of a romance here. Of course, I may be highly suggestible due to my love of Wuthering Heights. In addition, it is not hard to imagine what this place would […] - [A creepy graveyard in Burwell](https://amandanorman.com/creepy-graveyard-burwell/): A creepy graveyard will not only look abandoned, it will also have a weird atmosphere making one feel uneasy. Of course, this is my definition of a creepy graveyard. However, I found one on an old hillside in Burwell, Lincolnshire. First and foremost, St Michael’s Church, which dates from the early 12th century is well […] - [The Pyramid Tomb and its Ghost](https://amandanorman.com/pyramid-tomb/): The pyramid tomb of William Mackenzie is clearly distinguishable from the old graves surrounding it. If you like reading ghostly tales or visiting haunted locations, Rodney Street is a must! Situated on Rodney Street in the centre of Liverpool, is an old graveyard. Since it is set back amongst the row of Georgian houses, you […] - [The Ghosts of Huskisson Street](https://amandanorman.com/the-ghosts-of-huskisson-street/): Huskisson Street has many ghostly tales and you will find it within the Georgian Quarter of Liverpool. When walking down this terraced street, you will easily find yourself being transported back in time. In the snow, it is like a Victorian wonderland. Summertime is also wonderful. This is especially so when the sun is setting. […] - [The Ghosts of St Luke's Church in Liverpool](https://amandanorman.com/the-ghosts-of-st-lukes-liverpool/): St Luke’s Church in Liverpool, is the perfect place to visit if you like haunted locations and Gothic architecture. Also, it is a photographers dream location if like me you find Gothic horror inspiring. Also known locally as the ‘bombed out church’, it remains in ruins. It is a reminder of the blitz bombings of […] - [Glasgow Necropolis](https://amandanorman.com/glasgow-necropolis/): Glasgow Necropolis is a magnificent cemetery and as a matter of fact, its first burial took place in 1832. Likewise, it now has upwards of 50,000 burials and is a magnificent cemetery to visit. In addition, it is my first holiday break with Mark for a Valentine’s Day celebration. Of course, I have clearly met […] - [Victorian cemeteries and my love for them](https://amandanorman.com/victorian-cemeteries/): Victorian cemeteries offer plenty of opportunity for a good photograph. They also continue inciting my joy of Gothic horror, and romance. I love the peace of old Victorian cemeteries and I can spend hours reading the inscriptions on the various headstones. In addition, I find the magnificent carvings of statues and angels alluring. I always imagine […] - [Amanda's Most Memorable Vampires of All Time](https://amandanorman.com/most-memorable-vampires/): Who are your most memorable vampires of all time and do you agree with my choices? To begin with, my most memorable vampire of all time is also the vampire who scared me the most. Let me introduce you to the one and only, Mr. Barlow from Stephen King’s, Salem’s Lot. Below you will find […] - [Lesbian Vampires of the Seventies with Bite](https://amandanorman.com/lesbian-vampires/): Lesbian Vampires of the 1970’s were featuring on the silver screen thanks to the famous Hammer Horror studios. All three of these films were simply mind blowing. Without further a do, allow me to begin introducing you to the Karnstein family of vampires. Introduction to the lesbian vampires These days, I suppose many will view […] - [Gargoyles and Grotesques](https://amandanorman.com/gargoyles-and-grotesques/): I love taking photographs of gargoyles and grotesques, but do you know what the difference is between a gargoyle and a grotesque? What is a Grotesque? Firstly, a grotesque does not serve the purpose of filtering water away from a building to prevent damage to the stonework. This is the function of a gargoyle! It […] - [The Legend of Hell House](https://amandanorman.com/the-legend-of-hell-house/): The Legend of Hell House (1973) is still today, a frightening film. It also goes to show that you don’t need CGI to make a film believable and terrifying. It stars Roddy McDowell and Pamela Franklin and was directed by John Hough. FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR SANITY, PRAY IT ISN’T TRUE! Firstly, we meet […] - [Mr Barlow of Salem's Lot](https://amandanorman.com/salem-lots-mr-barlow/): I know that I’m not alone in my opinion that the vampire,  Mr Barlow from Salem’s Lot (1979) is the most scariest and hideous vampire of all time. I know this because my 19 year old daughter let out a scream and insisted on me turning the TV off! She no longer believes that old […] - [Vampires from the UK](https://amandanorman.com/vampires-from-the-uk/): Vampires from the UK is my collection of fascinating and supposedly true accounts of British vampires. Who knew that there were so many from the British Isles? Vampires from the UK Let’s begin by introducing you to some of the most fascinating vampires from the UK. Over time, I will be building upon these wonderful […] - [Vampire Exorcism](https://amandanorman.com/vampire-exorcism/): Vampire Exorcism is most certainly a test of faith for a priest who is putting to rest, a beautiful vampire. Therefore, what you are about to see in my opinion, is truly breathtaking. In this scene from the Russian movie titled Evil or Vedma, we are witnessing a vampire exorcism. It is a must-watch for […] - [Cadaver Graves of Ireland](https://amandanorman.com/cadaver-graves-of-ireland/): Cadaver graves of Ireland is my account of a wonderful trip photographing some amazing specimens. This stunning cadaver grave stone lies within the ruins of St Christopher’s Chapel in Stamullen. You will find it next to St Patrick’s Church, which is also in ruins. Looking back on this now, I remember how much trouble it […] - [Ingrid Pitt](https://amandanorman.com/ingrid-pitt/): Sadly, we lost Ingrid Pitt in November 2010, but her memory will always live on. I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing her back in 2002 for my old website, ‘The Lair of the Shebitch‘. Indeed, my old haunting ground was a site dedicated to my love of Gothic vampires, which no longer exists. Previously, […] - [Female Vampires of Hammer Horror](https://amandanorman.com/female-vampires-of-hammer-horror/): Female vampires of Hammer Horror is a collection of my thoughts and fantasies from long ago. I find that even to this day, the cult films of Hammer Horror still inspire my horror photography work. Undoubtedly, Hammer Horror films of the late 50’s and early 70’s play their part in the history of the female […] - [Ghosts in Cemeteries](https://amandanorman.com/ghosts-in-cemeteries/): Ghosts in cemeteries, have you seen any? A lot of people ask me if I see any ghosts while taking photographs in cemeteries. Well to begin with, I have had a couple of odd experiences, but I am very sceptical. My account of Ghosts in Cemeteries So, let me begin with the time I was […] - [St James Cemetery at Night](https://amandanorman.com/st-james-cemetery-at-night/): St James Cemetery in Liverpool is the place of many hauntings, but that doesn’t scare me visiting it at night. This is especially so when the fog is descending. The light streaming through the trees creates wonderful images that are well worth capturing. While creating this post, my research reveals that it is not only […] - [Kensal Green Cemetery](https://amandanorman.com/kensal-green-cemetery/): Kensal Green Cemetery is an obvious place to visit during a trip to London, especially if you are a taphophile. Our reason for visiting London, was to see an exhibition of some of the late Sir Simon Marsden‘s beautiful photography. Green and Stone were responsible for hosting the event and I enjoyed it immensely. Of […] - [Churches of Powys](https://amandanorman.com/churches-of-powys/): Churches of Powys features a collection of my favourite photographs of churches from my recent trip to Wales. Wales has always been a favourite place of mine to visit. Our latest trip is to a little place called Whitton in Powys. Why there I hear you ask? Well, our weekend break this time was down […] - [A Sign-Seeker by Thomas Hardy](https://amandanorman.com/a-sign-seeker-by-thomas-hardy/): A Sign-Seeker by Thomas Hardy is a wonderful graveyard poem that I recently became aware of. Therefore, I thought it would be a wonderful idea to share it here with you. Also, I will showcase some of my favourite graveyard photographs that I feel complement his poetry. Graveyard Poets To begin with, in the 18th […] - [Lydiate Abbey Hauntings](https://amandanorman.com/lydiate-abbey-hauntings/): Although small, Lydiate Abbey near Liverpool, has its fair share of hauntings and is well worth a visit. Furthermore, it is a lovely old chapel that certainly has an ambience about it. Ghosts of Lydiate Abbey Firstly, legend has it that you can hear the cries of children and babies that were apparently offerings of […] - [Hardwick Old Hall and its Ghosts](https://amandanorman.com/ghosts-of-hardwick-old-hall/): The ruins of Hardwick Old Hall in Derbyshire are hauntingly beautiful, especially if you enjoy your Gothic romance. Hopefully, you will agree that my photographs show its haunting beauty. Of course, I cannot visit a place without wondering what ghosts are lurking within the shadows. Therefore, my quest begins. Ghosts of Hardwick Old Hall Following […] - [Whitby Abbey](https://amandanorman.com/whitby-abbey/): If you are a fan of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, you simply must visit Whitby Abbey in North Yorkshire, and see it in all of its splendour. Ghosts of Whitby Abbey As you know, I love finding out about hauntings of these magnificent ruins that I love to photograph. The Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey have […] - [Rievaulx Abbey](https://amandanorman.com/rievaulx-abbey/): Rievaulx Abbey with the early morning mist surrounding it, is simply magical. Obviously, my creative senses were tingling with inspiration and I couldn’t wait to start photographing it. Moreover, these question were constantly in my mind. What if anything, hides among these dark shadows? What stories do these ruins hold and more importantly, what ghosts […] - [Rudston Monolith](https://amandanorman.com/rudston-monolith/): Rudston Monolith is most certainly a highlight of my recent trip to North Yorkshire. Furthermore, it is also known as the Devil’s Finger. Hopefully, you will find my photographs of it pleasing. To begin with, visiting this churchyard and standing among the headstones is a stunning, slender piece of rock. Moreover, it stands at just […] - [Helmsley Castle](https://amandanorman.com/helmsley-castle/): Helmsley Castle in the North Yorkshire Moors is simply breath taking and most certainly worth a visit. But, what about its ghosts? The Ghosts of Helmsley Castle The ghost of a starving soldier dating back to the time of the English Civil War, is regularly seen. In addition, there are accounts of people witnessing the […] - [Within Darkness](https://amandanorman.com/within-darkness/): Within Darkness are such haunting words. I begin writing this post while listening to Bill Oberst Jr‘s voice slowly and hauntingly say, ‘Within Darkness‘.  “Creative souls are introspective souls. With introspection comes the realization that our lives are but a mist within a vapor. We don’t get to choose how our minds instinctively react to […] ## Pages - [Life Comes Full Circle](https://amandanorman.com/): Life comes full circle is Amanda Norman’s journey of inner healing using her Gothic horror photography. About Amanda From childhood trauma to becoming a successful holistic therapist, she has never forgotten her passion for photography. Her journey has come full circle as the shadows of her imagination now begin revealing their hidden depths. It is […] - [A to Z Memento Mori](https://amandanorman.com/memento-mori-a-to-z/): My Memento Mori A to Z page is a resource for the meanings of symbols on headstones. Memento Mori A to Z Centuries ago with the various plagues, death was a part of everyday life with mortality rates being a lot higher than these days. Also, it was common place for the body to rest […] - [Memento Mori](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/memento-mori/): To begin with, I absolutely adore the art of Memento Mori symbols that we see on century old headstones. Unfortunately, I think it’s a shame that it is no longer prevalent in our graveyards. I would be more than happy to have a skull and crossbones on my headstone, but it’s very unlikely that I […] - [Mysterious and Spiritual](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/mysterious-and-spiritual-gallery/): Mysterious and spiritual places, whether they are landscapes or buildings, make great photography. This gallery showcases some of my favourite images from mainly the United Kingdom. From castles to ruins, there’s always a fairy-tale or ghost story to heighten our senses. The first picture within the mysterious and spiritual gallery is of St Patrick’s Chapel […] - [Heysham Gallery](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/heysham-gallery/): Within this Heysham gallery, you will find my favourite photographs from the place where I grew up. Sadly, I left here at the age of 11 years old due to trauma and I miss it! However, I do appreciate the beauty and sense of oneness now when returning to the village and especially the Barrows. […] - [Haunted Liverpool Gallery](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/haunted-liverpool-gallery/): The Haunted Liverpool gallery is a collection of images taken in Liverpool that are well known for having a few spooks. To read about the different ghost stories, please visit my journal. Alternatively, you may also click on the link within the gallery below. Liverpool is an exciting and vibrant city with so many differing […] - [Graveyard Gallery](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/graveyard-gallery/): My graveyard gallery features some of my favourite photography of all time. The graveyards I visit contain a balance of both life and death, sorrow and peace. Exploring these gardens of death, also allows me to explore the delicate need to strive for balance of mind, body, and soul. Indeed, my life has come full circle […] - [All Souls Gallery](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/all-souls-gallery/): All souls gallery is a collection of my favourite Gothic and alternative horror portraits. Would discovering what your soul says about you, frighten or intrigue you? All Souls Gallery Firstly, I did offer this at one time as an alternative portrait service but, due to my other commitments it is currently no longer available. However, […] - [Death Heads](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/death-heads/): Cemetery death heads represent a fascinating blend of art, culture, and evolving religious perspectives. These gravestone carvings, especially the iconic symbols such as skull and crossbones, provide unique insights into the societal attitudes towards mortality throughout history. As a photographer with a passion for this subject, I enjoy documenting the transformation of these somber yet […] - [Gallery](https://amandanorman.com/gallery/): Amanda’s gallery is a showcase of some of her favourite Gothic horror photography that she’s created. So please, venture into the deepest corners of her mind. They say a picture paints a thousand words however, Amanda’s clearly offer so much more. Above all, they are a gateway for her to explore her subconscious thus revealing […] - [Testimonials](https://amandanorman.com/testimonials/): Click here for information about the alternative portrait service and current prices. At Christmas, I won a raffle at a horror Christmas market and one of the things I won was a photo shoot with Amanda Norman. This wasn’t something I would have ever had the courage to do if I hadn’t have won it […] - [Amanda Norman and her love of the dark side](https://amandanorman.com/about-amanda/): Amanda Norman is much more than a Gothic horror photographer. She’s a tarot reader, Reiki Master, hypnotherapist and above all, she loves the dark side of life. Meet Amanda Norman I have been around long enough now to know the importance of shadow work. Moreover, I understand the consequences of not going inward to find […] - [Contact Me](https://amandanorman.com/contact-me/): I get lots of emails from students asking if I can answer questions for their photography project. Please read, About Amanda as this should answer many of your queries. - [Portrait Photo Shoot Terms & Conditions](https://amandanorman.com/portrait-photo-shoot-terms-conditions/): Amanda Norman offers a free portrait consultation prior to booking. Please use the form or alternatively give her a call on 07916 543 785. Confirmation of all bookings will be made via email. Pricing Pricing and information for Amanda Norman’s website or services/products is subject to change without notice. If you have had your booking […] - [Alternative Portrait Service](https://amandanorman.com/liverpool-alternative-portrait/): An alternative portrait service like no other is waiting for you here in Liverpool. In addition, be prepared for some fun and laughter as you dare to reveal what your soul says about you. This service has been temporarily withdrawn due to Amanda’s other commitments. Firstly, let me tell you that there are no hidden […] - [The Unknown and Gothic Horror](https://amandanorman.com/the-unknown/): Are you afraid of the unknown? Moreover, are you intrigued by the tales of Gothic horror featuring ghosts, vampires, demons and more? The unknown element of truth in the existence of what we cannot physically see, fires my imagination. Although we cannot see things such as spirits, some of you, including myself can certainly feel […] - [Blog](https://amandanorman.com/blog/): Was this all I had to do? - [Privacy Policy](https://amandanorman.com/privacy-policy/): GDPR Compliance This Privacy Policy describes how and when I collect, use, and share information when you purchase an item from me or contact me. This Privacy Policy does not apply to the practices of third parties that I do not own or control. Information I Collect In order to contact Amanda, you will need […] ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/amandanorman.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)