Underwater Maternity Portraits: Tips for an unforgettable portrait experience
There’s something truly magical about underwater maternity portraits and capturing this precious stage of life in such a unique way. The way the soft ripples of water and the natural flow of fabric combine to create an ethereal, otherworldly effect is unlike anything else. These photos go beyond the typical maternity shoot—they freeze a moment in time where the beauty of motherhood meets the serene, calming embrace of the water.
In this post, I’ll share a few helpful tips to ensure that your underwater maternity session is as beautiful and unforgettable as the life you’re about to bring into the world.
1. Choose the Right Location
The location of your underwater maternity shoot plays a huge role in setting the mood and tone of your portraits. Whether you opt for a natural Florida spring or a pool environment, each option offers its own unique beauty and challenges.
Natural Spring: There’s something truly magical about shooting in Florida’s natural springs. The sides and bottom of the spring, along with the crystal clear water, work together to create the perfect backdrop for your portrait. I have a large natural spring on my property that offers privacy, a controlled environment and the water is 72 degrees year round. The light filters through the water in the most mesmerizing way, creating a soft, luminous glow that’s perfect for maternity photos. My spring offers a serene, natural beauty that feels timeless. My studio apartment with private indoor and outdoor shower is the perfect place to rinse off and change.
Pools: Underwater portraits in a pool are an ideal choice for those seeking a bright, clean backdrop that adds an element of elegance and serenity to their photos. The controlled environment of a pool ensures clear visibility, making it easier to capture stunning, detailed shots with minimal distractions. This setting is especially popular for maternity portraits, where flowing gowns and rich colors or textures can be beautifully showcased against the smooth, calming water.
2. Pick the Perfect Wardrobe
Flowing Fabrics: Think light, airy materials like chiffon, silk, or soft cotton that move beautifully through the water. These fabrics create an elegant, dream-like quality in the photos, gently swirling around you as you float or move. If you want to add a little extra drama, a long, flowing gown or wrap can create stunning visual effects, especially when paired with underwater movement.
Soft, Light Colors: Soft pastel hues, like pale pink, lavender, or soft white, are ideal for underwater maternity shoots. These colors enhance the serenity of the water and create a delicate contrast against the clear backdrop. Avoid patterns or anything that would distract from the softness of your session. If you’re looking for a more earthy feel, natural tones like ivory or soft beige can also work beautifully.
Comfort and Safety: Above all, comfort and safey is key. You want to feel confident and relaxed during the shoot, so choose something that fits well and doesn’t restrict movement. Avoid clothing that’s too tight or stiff, as this can be uncomfortable and may not flow as naturally in the water. If you're wearing a maternity dress, look for one that offers some stretch and allows you to move freely. Every dress needs to have a slit in the bottom for ease of movement and safety.
3. Embrace the Movement
One of the most magical aspects of underwater maternity photography is the movement. The water naturally brings a fluidity to your photos, creating a sense of grace and weightlessness. To capture this beauty, it’s important to let go of any stiffness or hesitation and embrace the natural flow of the water. I will walk you thought a variety of poses, starting with the easist, sitting underwater. As you get more comfortable, we will progress through each pose. You can try as many poses as you would like, from easy to challenging, depending on your comfort level.
Natural Poses: The best underwater portraits are often the ones where you’re simply moving, rather than posing rigidly. Gently float, let your arms drift, or allow the fabric of your dress to swirl around you. The water will carry your movements, creating a soft, organic feel. If you’re not sure how to start, ask your photographer for gentle guidance. Often, small, fluid motions like twirling or lifting your hands can create stunning visuals.
Relax: The more relaxed you are, the more effortless your movements will appear. Take a deep breath, trust the water to support you, and let go of any tension. A serene expression and calm body language will shine through in your photos, making the moment feel even more magical.
Let the Water Guide You: Don’t worry too much about forcing a specific pose. Sometimes, it’s the unplanned movements—the way the water moves around you or the way your hair gently floats—that create the most striking images. Embrace the unpredictability of the water, and let it inspire a sense of freedom and grace in your session. Starting with a guide for each pose, I encourage you to float effortlessly through each pose.
4. Work with the Right Photographer
Underwater maternity portraits are unlike any other type of photography session, so it’s essential to work with a photographer who is not only experienced but also understands the unique dynamics of shooting underwater. This will ensure that the session is both beautiful and safe.
Experience is Key: Underwater photography comes with its own set of technical challenges, from lighting to buoyancy to timing. A photographer who has experience with underwater maternity shoots will know how to capture the perfect moment while navigating these challenges. Look for a photographer who specializes in this type of work—one who understands how to make you look your best while keeping you comfortable and safe.
Trust and Communication: You want to feel completely at ease with your photographer, especially when working in a medium as intimate and dynamic as water. Take the time to discuss your vision for the shoot. A good photographer will listen to your ideas and help you feel confident in front of the camera. Open communication is essential, so don’t hesitate to share what you’re looking for, whether it’s a particular style or vibe, or if you have concerns about the shoot.
Safety First: An experienced photographer will prioritize safety, guiding you through each step of the session. If you’re not an experienced swimmer, or if you’re feeling anxious about being submerged, make sure your photographer is prepared to provide clear instructions and offer reassurance. A good photographer will also work with an assistant, if necessary, to ensure that everything goes smoothly and that you feel supported at all times.
5. Don’t Forget Safety
While the magic of underwater maternity portraits is undeniable, safety should always be a top priority. Being in the water can be a little intimidating, especially if you’re pregnant, so it’s important to make sure you’re as comfortable and secure as possible during the shoot.
Experienced Supervision: It's essential to have an experienced photographer or assistant on hand who knows how to safely direct and help you in the water. I always have an assistant with me to help you get in and out of the water safely, and she is always on hand with a flotation device.
Listen to Your Body: Your body is going through a lot of changes during pregnancy, so listen to it closely. If you’re feeling fatigued or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to take a break. Water photography should be relaxing and fun, not a source of stress. Your safety and well-being are the most important part of the session.
By prioritizing comfort and safety, you can fully enjoy the magic of your underwater maternity portraits, knowing you’re in good hands.
Conclusion: A Moment to Remember
Underwater maternity portraits are a truly unique way to celebrate the beauty and serenity of pregnancy. The soft, fluid movement of the water, combined with the peaceful atmosphere, creates timeless images that capture the anticipation, joy, and wonder of this special time in your life. By choosing the right location, wardrobe, and photographer—and remembering to embrace the movement and prioritize safety—you can create a session that’s as memorable as the photos themselves.
These images will be more than just photos—they’ll be treasured memories, frozen in time, capturing the grace, strength, and beauty of your motherhood journey. So, if you’ve been dreaming of underwater portraits, take the leap and let the water reveal the magic that’s already within you.