The Dark Archives

A Special Project
September 19-20, 2026 · New York, NY

"Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before." — Edgar Allan Poe, The Raven

Gothic literature has always known something the rest of the world pretends not to: that darkness is beautiful, that ghosts are real, that the most interesting people are the ones who feel things too deeply for ordinary life to contain.

This is a special project for those people.

The Dark Archives is a two-day immersive photography experience in New York City. It is cinematic, atmospheric, and deeply strange in the best possible way. Inspired by everything from Jane Eyre to Beetlejuice, from Frankenstein to Phantom of the Opera. From the sublime to the ridiculous to the sublime again.

$50 from every participant will be donated to The Trevor Project, supporting crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth.

What is The Dark Archives?

Over this two-day photography weekend we will bring several iconic gothic stories to life through cinematic group scenes and character portraits inspired by gothic literature, film, and the dark works of art that have shaped us.

Every participant will be cast in at least one role from a beloved gothic tale. You'll be responsible for your costume, but Liza will guide you in developing a look that matches your character and the overall aesthetic. No modeling or acting experience required. Liza will guide you through posing and working with your scene partners.

Shoots will take place at a gorgeous outdoor location or a themed studio within Manhattan or Brooklyn. Locations may change depending on weather.

This project is intentionally limited to a small cast to keep the experience cinematic and collaborative. Roles will be cast from the application pool.

Choose Your Experience

Three shoots over the weekend — each one built around the light, the land, and the feeling of being exactly where you're supposed to be.

DAY PASS

2 Available - $550

✦ Cast in one named role from a gothic tale ✦ At least 8 edited individual shots plus group shots
✦ Invitation to group lunch on your assigned day

One full day. One character. One story brought to life.

FULL WEEKEND EXPERIENCE

2 Available - $850

✦ Cast in two named roles — one per day
✦ At least 16 edited individual shots plus group shots
✦ Invitation to group lunches on Saturday and Sunday
✦ Exclusive gothic-themed guided tour of Liza's favorite NYC locations
✦ Dinner at a themed restaurant Saturday evening
✦ Candid photos throughout the evening

The complete Dark Archives experience. For those who want to live inside the story for the whole weekend.

Logistics

Location Shoots will take place at outdoor locations and themed studios within Manhattan or Brooklyn. Exact locations will be shared with cast members in advance. Locations may shift depending on weather.

Transportation Transportation is not included. Most locations will be accessible via NYC subway. Liza is happy to provide guidance for those unfamiliar with the system.

Accessibility If you require accessibility accommodations please note this in your application so arrangements can be discussed in advance.

Ready to Apply?

Roles are limited. Cast will be selected from the application pool.

The Trevor Project

$50 from every participant in The Dark Archives will be donated to The Trevor Project — a non-profit providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ youth.

By participating in The Dark Archives you are helping support this vital work.

The Dark Archives is not directly affiliated with The Trevor Project.
We are simply donating in support of their mission.

Learn More