'Bates Motel' photo unveils Freddie Highmore as Norman Bates, Vera Farmiga as Norma

The first photo from A&E's "Psycho" prequel series "Bates Motel" has been released and spotlights stars Freddie Highmore (as Norman Bates) and Vera Farmiga (as mom Norma) in a serene setting.

But the view of the infamous Bates house in the distance is enough to remind us that things won't be peaceful for very long. The show promises to explore "Psycho" killer Norman's youth and twisted relationship with his beloved mother.

The first look at "Bates" comes from this week's issue of Entertainment Weekly. The 10-episode series -- also starring Nestor Carbonell, Mike Vogel, Max Thieriot, Nicola Peltz and Olivia Cooke -- is expected to debut on A&E in early 2013.