Tips for a Successful Underwater Photo Shoot
If you’re planning to dive into the world of underwater portraits, preparation makes all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned mermaid or diving into your first underwater portrait session, having the right mindset can truly transform your experience. From packing the essentials to practicing breath control, these tips will help you feel ready, relaxed, and confident when it’s time to get in the water. Here are our top tips for making the most out of your time in the water—and walking away with stunning, scroll-stopping images you’ll treasure forever.
1. Come Prepared (And We Don’t Just Mean Mentally)
Underwater shoots can be magical—but also wet, chilly, and a little messy behind the scenes. Bringing the right items can make all the difference in how you feel throughout your session. Here’s what to bring to stay comfy and camera-ready:
- A towel
- A change of dry clothes
- A trash bag or wet/dry bag for your soaked wardrobe
- Waterproof or long-wear makeup for touch-ups – use Abbey’s guide to underwater hair and makeup linked HERE
- Hairbrush and/or detangler
- Any props, accessories, or wardrobe changes you want to try
Bonus tip: Pack a cozy robe or oversized sweater to throw on between takes - you’ll thank us. A little comfort goes a long way in making your underwater portrait session as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
2. Train Your Breath
Your breath is your power underwater. Practicing static breath holds in the days leading up to your session helps calm the nervous system and build confidence underwater. We recommend the STAMina Apnea Trainer for guided breath-hold training - start with just 5 minutes a day leading up to your shoot.
Fun Fact: Lowering your heart rate helps you hold your breath longer, giving you more relaxed moments beneath the surface. It also keeps your movements fluid and your energy steady throughout the shoot.
3. Relax, Relax, Relax
The more relaxed you are, the more graceful you’ll look underwater. Tension shows on camera - and it eats up your oxygen. Taking a few deep breaths between takes helps slow your heart rate, conserve energy, and keep you grounded both mentally and physically. When you’re calm, your body moves more naturally, your expressions soften, and your presence becomes more fluid and serene. Let your body float freely, move slowly and intentionally, and don’t stress about perfection. Trust the process and focus on soft expressions, graceful motion, and channeling your inner sea goddess - because the most captivating underwater portraits come when you simply let go.
4. Buoyancy is a Balancing Act
Controlling your buoyancy shapes much of your underwater posing. Your lungs act like a balloon underwater - when they’re full, you float. If you want to sink more easily and avoid immediately rising to the surface, gently exhale before and during your descent. Releasing small bubbles helps improve your control and allows you to maintain a pose without fighting to stay submerged. We’ll guide you during the shoot, but this little trick can make a big difference. Understanding how your breath affects your buoyancy empowers you to move more naturally in the water. What once felt like a struggle becomes a graceful dance, resulting in elegant, effortless portraits.
5. Bring a Buddy
Whether it’s moral support, capturing fun BTS moments, or simply someone to cheer you on, bringing a friend can add comfort and confidence to your day. At our Fullerton, CA pool studio, they can stay dry and comfortable on the couch while watching the entire shoot live via our underwater feed - it’s like an underwater theater. This setup keeps guests connected to the experience without interrupting the flow of the session. Sharing the moment often leads to more authentic expressions, unforgettable memories, and a little extra magic both in and out of the water.
6. Trust the Process
Underwater photography is an art form unlike any other, full of surprises and unique movements. Hair floats unpredictably, fabric swirls in unexpected ways, and it might take a few tries to capture “the perfect shot” - but that’s totally normal. We’re here to guide you every step of the way - from safety to styling to camera-ready coaching - so you can relax and enjoy your time in the water.
Ready to Dive In?
Book your session and experience the beauty, strength, and artistry of underwater portraiture. Whether it’s for maternity, fine art, fashion, or just because - let’s make magic beneath the surface. Every session is a chance to create something unique and unforgettable, where movement, emotion, and water come together to tell your story. Step into the water with us, and let’s turn your vision into breathtaking, one-of-a-kind imagery.
