The Altered Tarot Deck & Guidebook

The Altered Tarot Deck is a photographic tarot deck that reinterprets traditional tarot archetypes through striking black and white nature photography, occasionally accented with subtle, desaturated color. The deck aims to offer a fresh, intuitive perspective on the tarot system, inviting readers to connect with the natural world and its inherent symbolism.

Each card features a unique photographic composition, carefully chosen to evoke the essence of its corresponding tarot meaning. The use of black and white photography lends a timeless and contemplative quality to the imagery, while the occasional hint of color, as seen in the purple lavender field of Temperance, adds a layer of depth and visual interest. The deck is designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and functionally insightful for readings.

Accompanied by a guidebook, The Altered Tarot is intended to provide guidance and interpretation for each card, making it accessible to a range of readers. The collaboration between writer r. tanksley and photographer k. hiatt suggests a thoughtful integration of visual and textual elements to create a cohesive and meaningful divination tool.

The artwork consists of high-contrast black and white photography, with a deliberate use of deep shadows and bright highlights to create dramatic compositions. The subjects are primarily drawn from nature: dandelions under a cloudy sky for the Four of Wands, a fox reflected in water for the Knight of Cups, and a field of lavender under a starry night for Temperance. While most of the imagery is monochrome, the Temperance card features a distinct purple hue in the lavender field, indicating a selective use of color. The style is minimalist yet evocative, focusing on texture, light, and natural forms to convey symbolic meaning. The photography is sharp and detailed, emphasizing the raw beauty of the natural world.

This deck is suitable for tarot readers who appreciate minimalist aesthetics, nature photography, and a more introspective approach to divination. It will appeal to those who prefer black and white imagery with subtle color accents over vibrant, traditional illustrations. Experienced readers seeking a visually unique deck for intuitive readings will find it engaging, as will beginners interested in connecting tarot with natural symbolism.