The Best Underwater Boudoir Photoshoot Sets
If there's one thing that keeps me coming back to underwater, it's the epic boudoir photoshoot sets! Not only are the images stunning, the water just adds that extra something other boudoir sets don't have. No two sets are ever the same—each set and session are unique, much like a fingerprint.
Another reason to love underwater boudoir photography is because as soon as you step foot in my (heated!) pool, you're released from the constraints of gravity. It feels so good to be weightless for a short time. These sessions aren't just about the final destination (beautiful images) but also about the journey (the experience of the photoshoot itself). You can bring your favorite playlist to help you get in the right headspace and I'll play it both on the pool deck AND underwater. My studio has a high fidelity underwater speaker system so you can hear your songs under the water as clear as can be.
So what kind of looks can we create together underwater? I'm glad you asked, because the possibilities are only limited by your imagination (and occasionally, budget). My pool was designed in a way that we can create multiple shooting areas and then simply move through them. Here are some of my favorite underwater boudoir ideas!
Set 1
Sunshelf
My pool is equipped with a beautiful sunshelf, a 6" deep shallow area that's perfect for creating a look of someone floating in a pond (but without all the effort of actually trying to float in place). We would plan a look before your shoot, then all you have to do is lay down and pose. I love starting my underwater boudoir sets with ultrashallow sets for a few reasons: first, it helps you relax and get into a posing mindset; second, these are easy pictures to capture that look beautiful; and third, the possibilities are endless!
I have multiple backdrops that you can select from and then we sink it onto the shelf. Once it's saturated and laying nicely, we'll place you in the frame along with any accessories you desire. We've photographed album covers in this area and used custom floral combinations to help our clients achieve the look they've dreamed of. My studio hosts a huge faux floral collection, where we have everything from sunflowers, to roses, ferns, lilypads, and more.
Set 2
Mirror Mirror
Do you love dreamy reflection shots? What if your reflections had reflections? Using an underwater mirror creates some seriously magical images and these are pretty simple shots to capture! Mirror shots have quickly become one of our most requested sets and it's easy to see why. We can create these images in 3-4' of water and use endless lighting combinations to create either a fine art, painted look or an edgy modern look.
This is also a fun set to have your significant other join you on, especially if they aren't comfortable in deeper water. Yes, underwater couple's shoots are absolutely a thing (and they're pretty magical if I may say so). Another fun variation is to capture these at nighttime. Then, we can add all the creative lighting we want—overhead, underwater, and even some fun lights for you to hold.
Set 3
Rock Wall / Imitation Spring
You may love the look of a natural spring, but not its chilly temperature. If so, good news! I have custom made rock walls from the people who design zoos and aquariums and we can create a more natural environment in the deep end of my pool. We can even add in realistic looking eelgrass/seagrass to add to the effect. Some of these images are my all time favorite, especially for clients who want a private, safe space where there's no prying eyes in the background.
Set 4
Flower Swing
Flower swings can look beautiful whether you're wearing a gown…or less. I have a pretty massive floral collection and am happy to create a special set just for you. A flower swing is also a great set for someone who's a little bit anxious about working in deeper water, as it gives you a stable platform to hold onto and a set to interact with. If florals aren't your thing, I also love using my silks as swings. Oh and for my people who love aerial, I have a series of golden hoops we can play with as well.
Set 5
Stained Glass
If you want otherworldly images, this set may be for you. This year, I've started creating my own "stained glass" windows that can go underwater. I love how they gently glow and contrast against the black background. These sets have been some of my favorite to construct and shoot.
Set 6
Travel to Other Locations
Lastly, maybe you'd like some truly exotic underwater boudoir photos. My pool is pretty amazing, but it definitely can't imitate some of the real world beauty around us. If so, I'm available to travel with you and help you capture some epic images on the way.
Locally, we can't go wrong working in one of Florida's beautiful, crystalline springs. If incredible food, dense jungles, and crystalline cenotes are what you want, then look no further than Mexico! I've led multiple trips to the Riviera Maya region and am very familiar with great shooting locations around Playa del Carmen and Tulum. I'm also experienced in the Bahamas and happy to help you craft a custom itinerary that will check all your boxes!
I hope this article gave you some inspiration regarding underwater boudoir photography. It's still a far from common genre of photography and while it's definitely not for everyone, I think it's well worth it for those who love it. Underwater boudoir images are a great way to celebrate yourself, embrace your partner, and even travel to new locations.
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