FAQ

Why Underwater?  (or some variation of that question)  I’ve been photographing people underwater for more than 12 years and it really suits my personality.  I work underwater because of the atmosphere and how it makes me feel.  It’s darker, quiet, and I am isolated with the person I’m photographing. Fabrics and hair defy gravity, moving in slow motion, colors are more vibrant and it's a remarkably calming place.  Under the water I can relax and feel free to think creatively without distractions. It’s truly a magical world. I’m where I want to be, doing what I want to be doing and I don't even have to breathe.   The question becomes, “Why would I work anywhere else?” If photography is an art and a science, then underwater photography is an art, a science and a science. Mastering the science of working in a liquid environment was a huge accomplishment for me and it’s something I can feel really good about.

Can I model for you?  I’m always looking for models with extensive experience underwater modeling.   I am not currently looking for new models to collaborate with unless they are bringing something to the table that absolutely blows me away.  I do offer a limited number of private commissions every year. Keep reading for information about commissions.

How much do you charge for an underwater photo session?  This is called a Private Commission. The photo shoot is $2,000 and comes with the shoot and one fully edited 16x20 image.  Additional images are available at an additional cost. I have make up artists who specialize in underwater makeup and you are welcome to hire them through me but you pay them separately. I do not sell digital files.  I do not offer unedited images. Please use the Contact link on the front page to inquire about a Private Commission.

This has got to be really hard for the models, is it hard?   OR They make it look so easy, is it really easy? Modeling underwater is a lot like dancing.  Dancing is really really easy. And dancing is really really hard. It all depends on the individual's abilities.  I always have a tremendous amount of patience while working with people in the water. 

How do you find your models?  Many of my models I trained myself but a few had some knowledge before we met.  I have a very particular way of working and what I am looking for from my models is very specific to me. I’m looking for people who are very comfortable in the water but mostly who truly understand what it is that I am trying to create. I work with an amazing talented and hard working team of designers, makers, models, make up artists and other creatives. Mostly women but a few men.  They construct the clothing and accessories but sometimes I come up with my own simple creations. It can start as an individual idea, a group idea or something that is commissioned. The most important thing is that we are all on the same page creatively and we are contributing to each other’s success.

You should photograph my (daughter, niece, friend, neighbor, acquaintance I met once years ago, baby, dog, family, bride and groom, etc) because they (are really pretty, would really want to, would do this if I told them to, have their own mermaid tail, have always dreamed of being a mermaid, have a pretty dress, have long pretty hair, would look really cool, would love to have pictures like this, etc).         Thank you. I appreciate your interest. If that person is interested they are welcome to contact me.

Are you a scuba diver?  How do you keep your models from drowning?    I work in my own swimming pool in my backyard.  No scuba equipment. It’s a very simple set-up. My models are right near the surface of the water and the pool isn’t very deep.  I have a safety person there at all times and it’s very very safe.

What camera do you use?  This involves more than just a camera. I have always used ewa-marine underwater housings and just love them. They are perfectly suited to what I do, in the environment I work in.  I’ve found no better system for the work I do and because of the housings versatility I’ve been using some of the same ones with every camera I’ve worked with, including the entire Canon 5D series and the Leica SL.   For lighting I use modified natural light along with Rotolight Neo IIs and Aeos in custom ewa-marine housings. Strobe doesn't suit my style of art so having the powerful constant video light with color temperature and power that can be dialed in quickly is exactly what I need.  In 2018, at Photokina in Germany, I grabbed the owner of Rotolight and the owner of ewa-marine (both small family owned businesses which is very important to me) brought them together and asked them to create a housing for the Aeos light. They did and that has been revolutionary for me.  I use the Neo IIs in ewa-marine tablet housings but the combination of the two light sources really bring it all together. 

I’d love to learn how to do what you do.  Can I watch you work or be your assistant or can you give me a lesson?  Thank you, sorry, no. I work underwater due to the solitude. If there is an audience then there is no solitude.  I don't need an assistant, thank you. I teach a workshop in the pool at Palm Springs Photo Festival in May. Please see my Schedule page for that information.  I do one on one training with photographers. Rates available upon request. 

Are you showing your work at any galleries? Please see my schedule for information regarding gallery shows. Generally I don’t show my work in galleries.  I have an online shop that you can get to through my website www.CherylWalsh.art