Short answer:
• Booking an underwater portrait session requires advance preparation across wardrobe, breath control, and safety awareness.
• The right fabric choices, waterproof makeup, and a pre-session consultation make the difference between a stressful shoot and a stunning one.
Showing up prepared is the single most effective thing a client can do before an underwater portrait photography in Syracuse NY session. Submerged portraits look effortless on camera, but the process demands meticulous preparation, fluid execution, and thoughtful post-production. Understanding what to expect before you ever step near the water sets the tone for every frame.
What to Wear: Fabric and Wardrobe Choices That Photograph Well
Wardrobe is one of the most consequential decisions you will make before a session. Light fabrics like silk or chiffon billow beautifully underwater, while heavy cotton sinks and loses all visual movement. The goal is material that responds to water the way hair does — with flow, volume, and a sense of weightlessness.
Key wardrobe guidelines:
• Choose light, flowing fabrics: chiffon, silk, organza, or lightweight lace
• Avoid denim, heavy cotton, or structured garments that will pull downward
• Bright, saturated colors read better on camera; the blues of water tend to wash out skin tones, so contrast in clothing helps.
• Bring two outfit options in case one does not behave as expected in the water
• Avoid clothing with metal hardware that could snag or restrict movement
| Fabric Type | Underwater Performance | Recommended? |
| Silk / Chiffon | Floats and billows naturally | Yes |
| Organza / Tulle | Creates volume and movement | Yes |
| Heavy Cotton | Sinks, loses shape | No |
| Denim | Restrictive, heavy when wet | No |
Makeup,Hair,and Skin Prep
Makeup requires a different approach for underwater sessions than for standard portrait work. When preparing for underwater shoots, makeup requires special consideration because water can quickly wash away conventional products — waterproof and long-lasting formulas are essential to keep features defined throughout the session.
Practical makeup tips:
• Use a waterproof primer as a base layer before any other product
• Focus on waterproof mascara and eyeliner to accentuate your eyes, and use a waterproof foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out your skin tone.
• Avoid heavy powders, which can dissolve or cloud the water and potentially affect photo quality.
• Test all products in water at least a day before the session, since not all products labeled “waterproof” hold up when fully submerged
• You can go a bit heavier on makeup underwater, as it can disappear on camera depending on the lighting — warm colors tend to pop, while blues and greens can blend into the water tones.
For hair, loose and natural styles typically photograph best. Tight updos can look stiff underwater, while loose waves or open hair create a more organic, editorial look.
Breath Control and Physical Readiness
Comfort in the water is the foundation of a successful session. Underwater portrait photography should always be planned around the comfort and safety of the person being photographed — no image is ever worth panic, overexertion, or cold stress.
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 beneath the surface.
Steps to build readiness before your session:
1. Practice slow, controlled breathing daily in the week leading up to your shoot
2. Clear communication before the shoot is essential — go over poses, breathing techniques, and signals with your photographer on land.
3. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals in the hours before your session
4. Use warm breaks, towels, robes, and drinking water between attempts to stay comfortable.
5. Inform your photographer of any health conditions that affect your breathing or water comfort
According to the Divers Alert Network, proper physical preparation and clear communication with your team are foundational to safe breath-hold activities in any aquatic environment.
What to Expect on Session Day
A professional underwater session is structured to keep you comfortable at every stage. Your safety and comfort are the top priority, and a good photographer will discuss your comfort levels and never push your boundaries.
Preparation is the bedrock upon which all safe underwater activities are built — it includes the planning and proactive measures taken before entering the water, covering safety gear, thorough discussions about client skills and experience, and site assessment.
Expect your session to include:
• A pre-session consultation to review wardrobe, poses, and comfort levels
• A dry run of poses and hand signals before entering the water
• Breaks between underwater attempts to rest and reapply makeup if needed
• Guidance from your photographer on every pose so you never feel uncertain
Boudoir by Rae Taryn is based in Syracuse, NY, and offers personalized underwater portrait sessions with a safety-focused approach and full client guidance from consultation through final image reveal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to swim to do an underwater portrait session? You do not need to be an advanced swimmer, but basic water comfort is important. Your photographer will keep sessions in shallow, controlled environments and will review all safety signals with you beforehand.
How should I prepare my hair for an underwater shoot? Loose, natural styles photograph best. Avoid heavy styling products, as they can cloud the water. Your photographer may have specific guidance based on the look you are going for.
Will my makeup stay on during the session? Only if you use genuinely waterproof formulas. Test all products at home before your session day. Avoid powder-based products, which dissolve quickly in water.
How long does an underwater portrait session typically last? Session length varies, but plan for multiple short submersions with rest breaks in between. The overall experience often spans several hours when you include consultation, wardrobe changes, and the shoot itself.
