Is An Underwater Portrait Photography Session Right for You? (Yes — and Here’s Why)
Over the years, one of the most common things I’ve heard from people interested in booking a session is: “I love the idea of underwater photos, but I don’t think I could ever do something like that.” And I get it, underwater photography isn’t something most people have experience with. It feels different, looks different, and raises a lot of questions.
Maybe you’re not sure if you’d feel confident underwater.
Maybe you’re worried about how you’ll look, or if you’ll know what to do during the shoot.
Maybe you’re thinking, “That looks amazing, but it’s not really for someone like me.”
Let me stop you right there, underwater photography is for you.
Whether you’ve achieved a major milestone, celebrating yourself after a season of change, or simply want something more creative and bold than a traditional portrait session, underwater photography is a powerful and unique option. It doesn’t matter if you’re adventurous or reserved, or a strong swimmer or someone who just wants to stay near the surface, we’ll design a session around you, your style, your comfort…your story.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of underwater portraits but aren’t sure if it’s for you, I’m glad you’re here! Today we’re going to break down exactly who underwater photography is for, the different types of sessions available, and how I tailor every shoot to make sure you not only feel comfortable, but walk away with images you’re genuinely proud of.
1. Isn’t Underwater Photography Just for Models or Mermaids?
One of the biggest myths about underwater photography is that it’s only for a very specific type of person. Most people think that person is usually someone who’s a strong swimmer, extremely confident in front of the camera, or already comfortable being underwater. You might picture dancers holding perfect poses, models floating effortlessly, or professional mermaids like you’d find at Weeki Wachee Springs, or a local aquarium. And while all of those people can make beautiful underwater portraits, here’s the truth:
Most of my clients are everyday people who have never done anything like this before.
Did you know you don’t need to be able to hold your breath for more than a few seconds? You don’t even need to be able to swim well. And, you certainly don’t need to look or move a certain way. In fact, you don’t even need to go fully under the water if you don’t want to. Many of my client’s favorite portraits have been taken just inches below the surface (and, pro tip, that’s the best place for a perfect reflection shot!).
What matters more than anything is your why. Maybe you’re celebrating your pregnancy, or reclaiming your confidence after a major life shift. Or, perhaps you want to try something different for your anniversary photos or document a creative part of yourself that studio or outdoor portraits can’t quite capture. Whatever your reason is, it’s valid and we’ll work together to build a session around you, not a fantasy you have to fit into.
I work closely with every client to design an experience that reflects their story and comfort level. You’ll be guided through every pose, supported in and out of the water, and encouraged at every step. This isn’t about “performing”, it’s about giving you space to show up as yourself, in a setting that allows for freedom, creativity, and peace. Many people are surprised by how relaxed and empowering the process is and how much they actually enjoy being in the water, even if they were hesitant at first.
If you’re intrigued by the look of underwater portraits but have been thinking, “That’s not something I could do,”, let me stop you right there and encourage you to shift that thought to: “That might be something worth trying.” You don’t have to be a certain kind of person to belong in front of the lens. You just have to be you.
2. Can I Have Different Styles and Tell A Different Story With My Underwater Portrait Session?
One of the most exciting things about underwater photography is how versatile it can be. No two sessions look the same, because no two people are the same. Whether your taste leans bold and expressive, soft and minimal, or somewhere in between, we can craft a session that reflects you. The key is understanding that underwater photography isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience, it’s totally customizable and deeply personal.
Here are just a few ways I worked with clients to tailor underwater sessions based on personality, aesthetic preferences, and comfort level:
What If I Like Simplicity and Sophistication?
You don’t need an elaborate set to create a powerful image. In fact, some of the most timeless underwater portraits come from a very simple, clean set focused on composition, wardrobe, and your quiet strength and beauty. These sessions typically take place in a pool with no distractions and no competing scenery. We might style you in a flowing gown with rich texture and let the movement of the fabric tell the story. What’s the result? An elegant, focused portrait that feels intentional and elevated.
This style is perfect for maternity sessions, self-portraits, branding imagery, or anyone who wants something polished and refined without unnecessary embellishment.
What If I Love Nature or Adventure?
If you’re someone who finds peace and energy in the outdoors, a session in one of Florida’s beloved natural Springs could be a perfect fit. The crystal-clear water, dappled sunlight, and wild, untouched surroundings provide a one-of-a-kind setting that you won’t find anywhere else in the World. Whether you want to mark a personal milestone like an engagement or elopement, or you simply want portraits that feel organic and grounded, this setting allows us to blend your story with the natural world in a truly unique way.
Not sure about diving into a spring? No problem, we can also recreate a natural feel in a pool by using natural elements to build a fully custom on-off set, creative wardrobe styling, and or even by doing a night shoot with creative lighting. You still get that connection to nature, without the pressure of being in a public place.
What If I’m More of a Mover, Artist, or Performer?
Dancers, gymnasts, aerialists, yogis…anyone whose body is a part of their artistic expression often find underwater portraits to be an incredible extension of their work. The resistance of the water slows motion in a way that can’t be replicated on land and allows for poses and transitions to be captured with a softness and grace that’s truly unique. These sessions are creative collaborations focused on movement, shape, and emotion.
But you don’t need a professional performance background to take this route. If you feel most alive when you’re in motion, or you’re curious to explore a more expressive side of yourself, this could be a beautiful way to do that with a simple set that puts you as the centerpiece..
What If I’m Marking a Personal Milestone?
You don’t need a big event or traditional reason to have your portrait taken. Some of the most meaningful sessions come from people who want to celebrate personal victories, overcoming illness, embracing body confidence, turning a new chapter in life, or simply honoring who they’ve become. Underwater can be a powerful space for that kind of self-reflection and expression.
These sessions can be quiet and personal or bold and celebratory…it’s entirely up to you. The goal is to give you images that don’t just feel like yours, they are yours, and they capture a version of yourself you’ll be proud to remember.
When you see underwater portrait photos online, they often feel larger-than-life, but what they’re really capturing is something deeply real. With the right styling, setting, and support, anyone can step into this space and walk away with portraits that speak to who they are.
3. Not Sure About the Water? That’s Okay.
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about the water, especially if you’ve never done anything like this before. A lot of clients come to me excited about the concept of underwater portraits, but worried they won’t be able to “pull it off.” Sometimes it’s because they’re not confident swimmers. Other times they’re just not comfortable in a swimsuit or they’re nervous about being underwater, holding their breath, or just looking good on camera.
That’s where the experience matters and I’m not just talking about yours, but mine.
One of the most important things I do as an underwater photographer is adapt the session to meet you where you are. We don’t start with expectations, we start with communication. Before your session, we’ll talk through what you’re comfortable with, how confident you feel in water, and what kind of movement or images you’re drawn to. From there, we’ll build a session that fits.
Don’t I Need to Be a Good Swimmer?
Many of my clients aren’t strong swimmers, and that’s not a problem. In fact, some can’t swim at all! Sessions can be conducted in shallow areas of the pool or spring, and you’ll never be asked to go beyond your comfort level. My safety swimmer is always right beside you in the water, helping to guide your poses. You’ll have breaks, support, and clear direction every step of the way.
If putting your head under the water doesn’t feel right for you, we can design a session that works partially above and partially below the water, or even one where your face doesn’t go underwater at all. The water is a creative tool, not an obstacle. It’s about making space for your vision, not forcing you into something that feels out of reach.
How Do We Prepare Before the Shoot?
You won’t be thrown into the water and expected to “figure it out.” Every session begins with a pre-shoot planning session: where we’ll design and talk through everything. Our typical underwater sessions also include an above water session we do usually the day before. During that session I’ll work with you to teach you some of the posing basics and once we get in the water, I’ll help you focus on proper breathing and make sure you can easily and comfortably get under the water. We’ll never move deeper into the session until you’re confident in the basics.
We also go over wardrobe choices that help with movement and comfort, and I’m there to guide your styling to make sure younot only feel your best, but wear things that are water-safe. We’ll practice simple movements and expressions in shallow water you can stand up in before we even start any actual shooting.
And during your session, you’re never alone. You’ll have direction, feedback, and encouragement the whole time not just from me, but from my safety swimmer who’s there just for you. Many clients say they came in nervous but left feeling completely at ease and were surprised at how fun and freeing it actually was.
Who Decides What the Experience Looks Like?
Underwater photography isn’t about pushing limits, it’s about giving you something unique, meaningful, and personal. If you love the look of underwater images but have hesitations, that’s perfectly okay. We’ll create something beautiful within your comfort zone, not beyond it.
Your session should feel like a celebration, not a challenge. Your experience is a collaboration, not given direction. I don’t decide what your experience is like, we’ll work together to make sure it’s exactly what you want. This way, you’ll love the sets, the wardrobe, and the entire experience you helped create.
4. What Makes an Underwater Session So Unique?
Underwater portraits are more than just beautiful images, they offer a completely different experience than any other type of photography. The moment you enter the water, everything changes from the way light moves, how fabric floats, the stillness, the weightlessness, etc.. It creates an environment that’s quiet, powerful, and completely personal.
But what truly makes underwater photography stand out isn’t just the setting, it’s what the water allows us to capture.
Why Do Poses Underwater Look so Different?
In water, everything slows down. That natural resistance allows for graceful, fluid motion that’s nearly impossible to recreate in a studio or outdoor shoot. Hair floats, fabric trails behind you, and your body finds shapes and lines that feel more expressive than posed. You don’t need to be a dancer or a model, the water makes you lighter and helps you move in a way that naturally enhances the emotion and flow of your portraits.
It’s ideal for storytelling. Whether you want your session to feel elegant, strong, bold, or introspective, the movement of the water adds a layer of visual interest and depth that can’t be manufactured with props or backdrops. Some have tried and even with the use of AI, it’s very easy to tell what’s real and what’s fake.
Why is the Water a Distraction-Free Environment?
One of the quiet powers of an underwater session is how it removes all the visual noise. There’s no cluttered background, no busy location, no street traffic or bystanders. It’s just you, the water, and the camera. That simplicity is what allows us to zero in on you — your presence, your movement, your expression. Besides the feeling of the water, it’s a sensory depriving environment.
If you’re someone who wants portraits that feel polished and artistic without needing a dozen props or a huge production, underwater gives you that. It naturally strips everything away so the focus stays exactly where it belongs…on you.
Is It Hard to See Emotion and Facial Expressions Underwater?
Underwater portraits are deeply expressive. There’s a vulnerability in letting go, even momentarily, and a strength in showing up fully in a space that’s unfamiliar. The result is images that often capture a part of you that’s harder to access in land-based portrait settings. It’s not just about how you look, it’s about how you feel.
Clients often say that their underwater photos feel like the most “them” portraits they’ve ever had taken. They reveal softness, power, calm, and courage, all in one frame.
Underwater photography isn’t just a novelty. It’s an art form that allows you to be seen in a different way and for many people, that’s exactly what they’ve been looking for. Your emotions, your expressions, you feelings, they are all on display when you do an underwater session.
5. Who Are Underwater Sessions Perfect Fit For?
If you’ve ever looked at underwater portraits and thought, “That’s beautiful, but I don’t think it’s for me”, this section is for you. The truth is, underwater sessions aren’t just for a specific type of person. They’re for anyone with a story to tell, a milestone to celebrate, or a desire to see themselves in a new and powerful way.
Here are just a few types of people who often find something truly special in the underwater experience:
Minimalist Individuals Who Love a Clean, Elevated Style
If you’re someone who values simplicity, elegance, and a refined aesthetic, underwater portraits can give you exactly that, without needing to over-style or overthink. A session in a pool with a simple monochromatic backdrop, and a stunning gown can create gorgeous images that feel timeless and high-end. The water naturally smooths and softens the scene, allowing the focus to stay on you. It’s an excellent option for maternity clients, solo portraits, or legacy images that are meant to last a lifetime.
Adventurers Who Thrive in Nature
Maybe you’re someone who feels most alive outdoors. You crave unique experiences and want something a little different from the typical photoshoot. A session at a Florida Spring might be your perfect fit. Surrounded by the natural beauty of crystal-clear water, small schools of fish that play in the fabric, and the textures of rock or sand below, we can create something not only wild, but stunning. You don’t have to be a thrill-seeker, just someone open to the magic that happens when nature and portraiture come together.
Creative Souls Who Want to Tell a Story
Artists, dancers, gymnasts, and movement-driven individuals often gravitate toward underwater photography because it gives them a new canvas to work with. Whether you’re marking a personal project, creating branding images, or simply expressing a part of yourself that doesn’t fit into land-based photography, the water becomes a collaborative partner. You bring your vision and we bring the tools to help bring it to life in a visually compelling way.
Celebrators of Life’s Big (or Quiet) Moments
Water is symbolic of growth, of change, and of healing. That makes it the perfect space to mark milestones like a birthday, a job promotion, an engagement, a divorce, a health victory, a new chapter, or even just a moment of hard-earned self-love. If you’ve gone through something big and want to honor it visually, underwater portraits are a powerful way to do so. I’ve worked with clients celebrating everything from career changes to cancer remission.
Persons Who Are Finally Ready to Be Seen
For many, an underwater session is less about performance and more about acceptance. After years of avoiding the camera, feeling uncomfortable in their body, or worrying about how they’ll look, some people choose an underwater session as a declaration: “This is me, and I’m ready to show up fully.” There’s a softness and strength in those sessions that’s hard to describe but incredibly powerful to witness.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right” reason to book an underwater session, this might be it! You don’t need to wait for the perfect moment. You just need the willingness to try something new and the right photographer to guide you through it.
6. Ready to Create Something That’s Yours?
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably still wondering: “Is an underwater session really for me?” And if that question is even crossing your mind, the answer is YES!
Underwater portrait photography isn’t just about the images, it’s about the experience of being fully seen in a way that feels powerful, honest, and completely your own. Whether you’re celebrating a major life change or simply wanting to try something different, the session is built around you, your story, your comfort level, and your vision. There’s no “right” way to do it. We design it together so it feels authentic and meaningful from the moment you step into the water to the moment you see your finished portraits.
If you’re not sure how it would work for your style or personality, let’s talk. I’ve worked with people from every background and every comfort level from seasoned artists to those who’ve never done a photo session before. Even people who can’t swim. Together, we’ll create an experience that feels natural, empowering, and true to who you are.
This isn’t just underwater portrait photography. It’s a way to mark a moment, celebrate who you are, and walk away with images that mean something.