Through the Looking Glass: A Photographic Journey with the Queen of Hearts

When given the photo prompt “Through the Looking Glass,” my imagination immediately tumbled down the rabbit hole. It took me into the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland. I was drawn to the enigmatic Queen of Hearts — a character who is both regal and chaotic, elegant yet menacing. Her presence inspired the concept for my latest image. Where reality bends and symbols of power are seen through a distorted lens.

Creating images – through the looking glass

The prompt was given for my 52 frames project. It got me thinking how I could represent this theme in a simple but impactful way.

The photograph features classic playing card motifs — hearts, clubs, diamonds, and spades — refracted and warped through a crystal lens ball. Suspended in space and light, the lens ball acts as a modern-day looking glass. Also, it’s a skewed and surreal interpretation of these symbols. The result is an image that feels both familiar and otherworldly, echoing the topsy-turvy nature of Lewis Carroll’s iconic tale.

By focusing on the Queen of Hearts, I wanted to explore the idea of control, illusion, and perception. She is a ruler in a world where logic is turned inside out — much like how the lens ball alters and reshapes what we think we see. The image invites viewers to question perspective and power: What is real, and what is simply a reflection twisted by the lens?

This piece is not just a nod to literary fantasy, but also a play on the mechanics of photography itself — light, refraction, symmetry, and distortion. It’s a visual reminder that sometimes, to truly see, we must look through something else entirely.

Curiosity is the beginning of every creative journey — thank you for stepping through the looking glass with me.

Follow for more

Photography inspired by wonder.

Sara Sadler

Photographer

I am a fine art photographer based in the South of England. I enjoy sharing my photographic adventures, hints and tips.

If you would like to be the first to hear about my photography and get Inspired by Nature, sign up to my newsletter. 

sarasadlerphotography.co.uk