A form of photography that is becoming quite popular since more and more baby swimming classes are available, underwater shots of your baby could be just what your photo album needs. It’s something quite unique and, if your little one loves water, it could be a fun way to showcase his or her enjoyment.

Underwater baby photos are one of a kind.

Underwater baby photos are one of a kind.

There are basically two ways to go with underwater photography of your baby, pro or DIY. We’ll look at both in this article.

Taking Your Own Underwater Baby Photos

By doing these shoots yourself, you’ll save quite a bit of money, though you do need a camera that can either be submerged as is, or that can fit into a waterproof camera box that allows you to take it underwater.

Taking your own underwater photos can be fun!

Taking your own underwater photos can be fun!

You will also need to have another person who can make sure your baby is safe. And, of course, water is a must . . . pools work best because they have clearer water and more reflective surfaces than a lake or river.

Now, it’s best to do photos with a baby who has already had some experience in the water or you’ll end up with a very frightened child. Small infants automatically hold their breath underwater, so you can gently swoop them under the surface and they will stop breathing and (usually) look around, making for the best photos. Older babies who have had lessons will be used to holding their breath, however, so you don’t have to rule out underwater photos just because you have an older baby.

Another amateur underwater baby photo.

Another amateur underwater baby photo.

Photo by lownote.

Stick to sunny days when your little one is happy and well rested. The sessions should be fairly short, since underwater photography can be exhausting, both for baby and photographer.

The best way to go is to use a snorkel so you can stay underwater while your partner swoops the little one underwater and toward the camera. This lets you snap at just the right moment, though I would recommend taking multiple shots since air bubbles and closed eyes can ruin a shot and you will have a limited amount.

Getting a Pro to Shoot Underwater Photos

Most classes that teach infants will also offer underwater photos at the end of the classes, but even if you don’t have this option, you can find professional underwater photography studios that will be able to take some quality shots of your little one. They almost always require a familiarity with water.

Two babies is twice as fun!

Two babies is twice as fun!

A professional shoot will usually last 15-30 minutes and the baby will be submerged anywhere from 4-8 times during the session. Often parents can be in on the shoot, as shown by these sweet underwater family portraits.

Adding Dad to the photo adds extra interest.

Adding Dad to the photo adds extra interest.

A great bonding photo . . . underwater.

A great bonding photo . . . underwater.

Get the whole family involved in underwater photos!

Get the whole family involved in underwater photos!

Professionals will tend to get better results simply because they have more experience and the right set for it. They can be costly, however, because special equipment is needed and this is certainly more work than your average baby photo shoot!

Whether you decide to take your own underwater baby photos or take your little one to a professional studio, the photos produced will be some of the most memorable in your photo album.

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