# Macabre Photography Alexander Binder Uses Symbolism & Occult Theories to Convey Meaning By Tiana Reid | Published 2010-08-06 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alexander-binder References: [dazeddigital](http://www.dazeddigital.com/view/default.aspx?Category=27&ArticleID=8079) & [alexanderbinder.de](http://www.alexanderbinder.de/) Photographer Alexander Binder creates [macabre images](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/faberge-x-beetlejuice-beetlejuice) that may seem simple at first glance, but with symbolism, iconography and references to [paganism and the occult](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tarotinspired-phone-case), Binder's work actually carries a heavy load. "The symbols help me to convey my perception of reality and they also help me to enhance the atmosphere of a photo," says Alexander Binder. Unsurprisingly, Binder's influences include black metal an [horror films](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heretic-parfum-nosferatu). **Implications** - When trying to convey a specific message, it can often be beneficial to incorporate simple designs that get straight to the point. Product packaging and branding that holds a deeply specific message should consider keeping imagery simple and concise so that consumer attention may be drawn to one element of focus -- such as the cross in this photography. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.6/10 - Popularity: 90% | Activity: 71% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Modern](https://www.trendhunter.com/modern) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Symbolic Marketing:** Using simple yet powerful symbolism in product packaging and branding to convey a specific message and draw consumer attention to a singular aspect. - **Occult Imagery:** Using dark and macabre iconography and references to the occult to enhance the atmosphere of a photo or design. - **Pagansim-inspired Design:** Drawing inspiration from pagan symbolism and iconography to create unique and powerful designs. ### Where This Applies - **Graphic Design:** Utilizing symbolic and occult imagery in branding and marketing design to create powerful and attention-grabbing visuals. - **Fashion and Apparel:** Incorporating pagan and occult imagery into clothing design to convey a specific message or atmosphere. - **Artistic Photography:** Exploring the use of symbolism and the occult in photography to convey deeper meanings and create a unique aesthetic. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Mythology-Themed Lighting Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/alchemist-collection.md) - [Artistic Photography Instant Cameras](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moir-21-instant-film-camera.md) - [Traditional Iconography Bags](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ophidian-mini-bag-collection.md) - [Juxtaposing Themed Furniture Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/emprea-series.md) - [Design-Forward Funerary Urn Exhibitions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/funerary-urn.md) - [Artful Wooden Furniture Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/knowledge-of-all-dark-things.md) - [Photography Project Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/still-life-1.md) - [Miniaturized Product Art Photographs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/small-muji.md) - [Humorous Macabre Office Furniture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/coffin-office-chair.md)