With the Demon in the Dechen Cave
The Dechen Cave provided the motif for this fantasy shooting with Sebastian von Kempin as a male model. It wasn’t the first time we worked with him. Sebastian has been with us since the Federal Office for Magical Creatures was founded. In 2012, our fantasy project started, and at that time, the actor, presenter, and singer Sebastian von Kempin participated as a vampire in a cinema commercial about the BAfmW. Now, during the Corona crisis, our goal was to address the topic of “Home Office in Hell – Hell Home Office” a little, and for that, we needed a convincing demon.
A quick inquiry, and Sebastian was happy to make his way to Bonn, the seat of the Federal Office for Magical Creatures. From there, we set off for Iserlohn, where the Dechen Cave is located, a quite extensive underground cave system in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Demon with Body Painting in the Dechen Cave
Again, Barbara Frommann as photographer and Vero Bente as makeup artist were there. We wanted to make the demon glow and therefore used black light in the cave after makeup artist Vero Bente had equipped Sebastian’s body with reflective body painting. Special contact lenses from Maskworld were also used, making his eyes glow.
In the cool Dechen Cave, Demon Sebastian then partly sensually-languidly stretched out on the damp stone, presented gay novels from Himmelstürmer Verlag and the mouth-nose protection offer that the Federal Office for Magical Creatures had developed. From the proceeds of the sale, we were able to finance further part-time jobs for pupils and students, including model shootings. Appropriately, the Dechen Cave has a large dragon figure in its inventory. We named the dragon – the ideal pet for a demon – Möbius and gave him the white unicorn Klothilde as a companion.
The Dechen Cave near Iserlohn is a truly impressive place – and perfectly suited for a fantasy-inspired photo shoot.
🧝♀️ Atmosphere & Motifs
- The underground world opens up with a variety of bizarre stalactite formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, “organ”, “mermaid’s pond”, “palm column” and the majestic Emperor’s Hall – ideal as a mystical backdrop (Sauerland.com, Märkisches Sauerland).
- Enchanting spots like the “Holy Family”, the Hell Gorge, or crystal-sparkling grottoes can be wonderfully staged with fantasy outfits like elves, dark magic, or alchemy (Ruhr-Guide).
🎨 Light & Effects
- Since 2015, modern LED lighting in changing colors creates a surreal-magical ambiance – ideal for styles like “Underworld”, light magic, or mystical rituals (Ruhr-Guide, Sauerland.com).
- During special events like “Cave Lights”, the entire cave transforms into a light artwork – an excellent time for creative photos where the light itself contributes to the dramaturgy (dechenhoehle.de).
❄️ Conditions & Planning
- The cave is consistently about 10°C cool, about 400 m of walkable area within the total length of around 900 m (Wikipedia).
- Regular tours last a good 40 minutes; however, for photographic work, a photo tour or special tour is recommended, which must be booked separately, especially during special events – e.g., photo tours during the “Cave Lights” (dechenhoehle.de).
✅ Recommendation for Fantasy Shootings
| Advantage | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Unique backdrop | Fantasy looks with elves, demons, warriors, or mystical figures fit perfectly here. |
| Light atmosphere | LED light installations create color plays – targeted light art complements the look. |
| Professional setting | Exceptional scenarios are possible with a photographer or model as part of photo tours. |
| Temperature & Clothing | Plan suitable outfits: it’s cold underground too – e.g., long robes, cloaks, or capes. |
🧭 how to Plan your Shooting with Sprungbrett BAfmW in the Dechen Cave
- Choosing a date: Events like Cave Lights are ideal for preparation – book extra photo tours for this.
- Coordination with the team: We clarify early with the cave administration what is allowed (equipment, light, short scene for larger groups).
- Outfits & Accessories: Matching the backdrop: elf staffs, runes, swords, or armor elements look particularly authentic.
- Rehearsal and time management: Tours are time-limited. Consider beforehand which scenes you want to realize.
- Post-processing: Emphasize light colors, fog effects, or mystical textures in post-production for additional impact.
🎯 Conclusion
The Dechen Cave is a magically dark setting, perfectly suited for fantasy-inspired shooting with its stalactite ensembles, LED lighting, and light art. Whether it’s an elven dance, dark magic, or a mystical ambiance – this underworld realm provides the perfect stage for extraordinary visual worlds.
If you wish, Sprungbrett BAfmW can help with outfit ideas, composition suggestions, or planning for special motifs!
