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Do I need to know how to swim?

Though a basic knowledge of swimming is helpful, it is not necessary for you to know how to swim. There is always a safety swimmer by your side when in the water, and we keep you close to the walls and stairs to be able to get in and out of the water easily. We start you in 3 feet of water, which is shallow enough for you to stand in, then gradually move you into the slightly deeper section, up to your comfort lever. The maximum depth of our pool is only 5 feet deep. We can get amazing shots in 5 feet of water.

What safety measures do you take during a shoot?

Underwater photography is unlike shooting on land. Your safety is our utmost concern while in and around the water. My team and I will go over our safety protocols during our consultation so that you have a clear understanding of what to expect and what we expect from you. We'll always have a safety swimmer in the pool with you. We will check in with you several times during the shoot, keeping a watchful eye on you throughout the shoot. If ever you feel overwhelmed or anxious about being in the water, our safety swimmer is there to guide you and help you get out of the water safely. We also keep floats in the water for you to grab onto in case of an emergency. 

Do I need to bring anything for my photoshoot?

During our consultation, we will discuss wardrobe ideas, swimsuits, props, etc and make a plan for you. I tell clients to prepare for a shoot like they are going to the pool. Bring towels, a change of clothes, and water and snacks. If we've discussed  a specific wardrobe item that you have and want to use, be sure and bring that, too. I usually recommend bringing a nude colored strapless bra and nude panties for specific  wardrobes. A far as safety and photography is concerned, we've got you covered.

What happens if the weather is bad for our underwater session?

If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we can reschedule for another day, or adjust the time of our shoot. When dealing with weather, obviously we must be careful around water!

How long does a photoshoot take?

Shooting underwater presents unique challenges for portrait photographers. That's why it's important to work with an expert, who has experience shooting underwater and can adjust for challenges as they present themselves.

Session lengths vary depending on the type of shoot and number of wardrobe changes. Typically we spend anywhere from 45 minutes to up to 2 hours in the water. It's easy to get fatigued during underwater shoots, and stamina will play a key role in determining how long we shoot. We'll plan to shoot as long as you are comfortable, and as long as it takes to get the images you want.

Do you have any tips for clients doing an underwater portrait session?

My biggest tip when preparing for an underwater portrait shoot is for you to go into the the shoot with a positive attitude, and trust that we will get you beautiful images. Relax, prepare to have a good time, and feel free to ask any questions throughout the shoot. I'm here throughout the process to answer any questions that you have, and to make the shoot as easy and enjoyable as possible. 

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Underwater fantasy portrait

AQUA FANTASY PORTRAITS

Doing an underwater portrait session is magical, almost like diving into a fantasy land. The moment you go underwater, the world above you fades away and you experience a feeling of weightlessness, sound is muffled, and everything around you moves slowly with the motion of water. As water envelops your body, you feel a heightened sense of every breath, every pose, every ripple, every movement. For the client, it's a surrender, letting go of control and let the water move you. Hair floats, fabrics meander up and down, and one's expressions soften, as you relax and let the water lead you. You are vulnerable, yet, empowered by the feelings of transforming into something from another world, weightless and beautiful. For the photographer, it's a delicate balance of time and intuition. Light plays differently underwater, creating challenges and opportunities, constantly changing angles. Because all underwater communication is non-verbal, the photographer uses hand signals and gestures to help elicit the best shots. It's an intimate and special bond between the photographer and the client. It is technically demanding and challenging, but when everything comes together, it's a magical moment that creates the beautiful., awe-inspiring fantasy portrait.

REVIEW UNDERWATER PORTRAIT PORTFOLIO
Underwater photographer showing images from underwater portrait photography session to a client
Underwater portrait photography session of a woman running underwater with a flowing cape
Underwater portrait photography session of a woman in a  pink gown
Underwater portrait photography session of a woman dressed as a mermaid
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