Crowning Glory: A Photoshoot Fit for a Gothic Queen at Frankenstein’s Castle
- Kimmi Lynn
- Mar 20
- 2 min read
Some photoshoots just fall into place like a beautifully staged fairytale—except this one had a little more wind, a whole lot of drama, and a crown made out of a candle holder.
Yep, you read that right.
The Budget-Friendly Magic Behind the Look
Fashion isn’t about price tags—it’s about vision. And this shoot was proof that creativity trumps cost every time. The dress? A whole $35 steal off Amazon. The crown? A little studio magic—originally a candle holder, but with some snipping, shaping, and a sprinkle of ingenuity, it transformed into the perfect regal headpiece. Who needs a designer price tag when you’ve got DIY wizardry on your side?

The Perfect Setting: Frankenstein’s Castle
Our location? None other than Frankenstein’s Castle—a hidden gem nestled in Hills and Dales Park in Kettering, Ohio. If you know Dayton history, you know this spot is iconic, with its old stone structure and an eerie, storybook charm that makes it an absolute dream for moody, cinematic shoots.
And let’s talk about the weather—because Mother Nature decided to play creative director. It was the last day of winter (cue the dramatic season finale), a strangely warm 70 degrees, with high winds and dark clouds rolling in. Basically, the perfect gothic fantasy setting.

The Vision Comes to Life
Enter model Greta Grenadine, who absolutely embodied the ethereal-meets-dark-queen vibe we were aiming for. Her fiery red locks, the sweeping gown, and that handcrafted crown? Chef’s kiss. The wind added extra drama, turning her into a living, breathing painting.
As the skies darkened and the wind carried her hair like something straight out of a gothic novel, the images practically composed themselves. We couldn’t have asked for a better natural backdrop—sometimes, the universe just gets it.

Beyond Pinup: What We Do at Gem City Pin Up
While we’re known for our pinup photography, we’re all about pushing creative boundaries. From moody gothic themes to whimsical fairytales, we love bringing unique visions to life. If you’ve ever dreamed of a shoot that feels like a story unfolding—whether it’s at a historic location or in the heart of nature—let’s talk.
📩 Interested in an outdoor or themed shoot? Message us to discuss styling, location, and how we can bring your vision to life! Email us: gemcitypinupphotography@gmail.com or better yet request a phone consultation one on one with me.
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