Your underwater photoshoot

water babies dipper and photographer at underwater photoshoot

baby at underwater photoshoot

Underwater photoshoots with Water Babies

Capture a special moment of your baby swimming underwater with a professional photoshoot. We are the only swim school in the country that provide this incredible experience.

  • Get beautiful, high-quality digital images from our world-class photographers.
  • Capture unique, precious moments of your baby showing off their skills.
  • Your teacher will let you know when your next photoshoot is coming up as they run a few times a year.

Be the first to know when the next photoshoot is available in your location.

Take a look for yourself at some of our incredible underwater photoshoot superstars!

How does our underwater photoshoot work?

There’s nothing quite like seeing your baby swimming underwater—it’s a magical moment! We know how precious these memories are, and our expert underwater photography captures your little one’s progress beautifully, creating a keepsake you’ll treasure forever.

Setting the scene

Our state-of-the-art underwater studio is ready! With our expert Dippers and photographer in place, everything is set for a magical experience.

Ensuring baby’s comfort

We’re only ready when they are! We start the session only when your little one feels relaxed and ready—no pressure, just gentle encouragement.

Lights, camera, lesson!

On photoshoot day, your little one still enjoys a swim lesson with the added magic of our underwater studio. Our experienced Dippers gently guide your baby underwater.

Capturing the magic

Our photographer captures up to three submersions, giving you a selection of up to nine stunning images of your little one in action.

That’s a wrap!

After the session, it’s time for cuddles and high-fives! We’ll deliver your beautiful photos as soon as possible.

Sussex West

Fontwell Physiotherapy, Chichester, PO20 3RU

7:00am

Warwickshire

Tiverton School, Coventry, CV3 4DE

8:00am

Staffordshire

Hempstall Primary School, Stoke on Trent, ST5 9LH

8:00am

North West London

Mandeville School, Horsenden, London, UB6 0PA

12:00pm

Shropshire

Gobowen Hospital,Gobwen,SY10 7AG

12:15pm

Kent

St Michaels School, Sevenoaks, TN14 5RY

12:00pm

Surrey North & South

Chessington Safari Hotel, Chessington, KT9 2NE

11:00am

Hertfordshire

Lonsdale School, Stevenage, SG28UT

7:15am

Take a peek at some of our awesome underwater photosoot shots

mother and son swiming in the pool

We had a wonderful time!

Recently we went for our Underwater Photo Shoot. And it was an experience I will remember for a long time. The Water Babies staff were amazing! Everything was so relaxed, they took everything at a pace that our little one was happy with. Even making his Nanny emotional at how much he enjoyed the experience. I am super excited to see the photos!

water babies dipper with a baby at an underwater photoshoot

Getting ready for your underwater photoshoot

This experience is open to all swimmers, and those who have had a photoshoot before are always welcome to join again—it’s a fantastic way to document their progress!

Our world-class photographers use top-tier equipment to deliver crisp, high-resolution images that truly capture the magic. Photoshoots run a few times a year, and your teacher will always let you know when the next one is coming up so you can book in. 

Before the big day

  • Your teacher and local office will provide all the details you need, including venue, date, and time slot.
  • We’ll also send gentle reminders leading up to the shoot. 
  • Ahead of time, your teacher will assess whether your little one is ready.
  • If they need a bit more time to build confidence with submersions, we may recommend waiting for the next shoot.
  • After all, we only go ahead when they’re ready! 

Meet our photographers & dippers

Capturing underwater moments isn’t as simple as point and click! Our photographers are highly skilled in holding their breath, controlling their heart rate, and handling heavy equipment in challenging lighting conditions—all while timing the perfect shot with a wriggly baby.

Many of our team started as scuba divers before taking up professional underwater photography, and some have even worked for the BBC and National Geographic!

water babies underwater photographer emily

Emily

I’ve been part of the Water Babies family since 2018, starting in the Photography Department before becoming an underwater photographer in 2022. Photography has been a passion of mine since childhood, and I’ve always loved swimming. Recently completing a Channel-distance charity swim in my local pool. Being able to combine both loves at Water Babies is a dream, capturing magical moments that celebrate each little one’s journey in the water.

underwater photographer gavin

Gavin

“Never work with children or animals,” they say, but I do both; and I love it. This is my 10th year photographing babies underwater with Water Babies, but my experience goes way back. In the ’90s, I was a diving magazine editor before working as an assignment photographer for Greenpeace and International Animal Rescue. 

water babies underwater photographer sarah hutson

Sarah

Photography has always been my passion, whether capturing babies, families, or even the occasional wedding. Funny enough, I can’t swim! But sinking to the bottom and holding my breath? That I can do! My fear of water is what led me to Water Babies. I originally signed my children up for lessons, but when my youngest refused to go in with Daddy, I had to overcome my fear and get in too. Thanks to our amazing teacher, we both built water confidence together. 

water babies underwater photographer jamie oliver

Jamie

I’ve been an underwater photographer with Water Babies for over a decade, and the little ones I photograph never stop surprising me! Every session is full of joy, unpredictability, and charm. It’s what keeps my passion for underwater photography alive and thriving. With a background in marine biology and a commercial diving qualification, I’ve had the chance to work with amazing organisations like the BBC, Channel 4, Sky, and National Geographic.

water babies underwater photographer anna james

Anna James

Hi, I’m Anna James, and I’ve been part of the Water Babies family for over 20 years as their longest-serving underwater photographer. Starting back in the days of shooting on film. With a background in film and TV drama, creativity runs through everything I do, from capturing underwater portraits to creating artwork in photography, painting, and glass under my studio name, Calm Cave Creations. I’ve taken over 30,000 portraits for Water Babies, aiming to create timeless images that families treasure as their little ones grow.

Ali

Being a Dipper for Water Babies is my passion, and I love sharing that passion by mentoring others. After years in the role, I joined the Dipper Tutoring Team, helping experienced teachers refine their skills and push their limits. 

Our training is immersive, two intense days in the pool, followed by a mentored photoshoot and a final assessment. The whole journey takes six to nine months, ensuring our team is the best in the business. 

water babies dipper and franchisee jacqui grant

Jacqui

I’ve been part of the Water Babies family for nearly 20 years, and what a journey it’s been! As a teacher, franchisee, and dipper for 17 years, I’ve experienced every part of the Water Babies journey. 

I love everything about our underwater photoshoots; from meeting families on the day to creating stunning, lifelong memories. Capturing these magical moments is so special, and I particularly enjoy getting creative with family shots and unique styles.

FAQs

Explore our FAQs to find quick clear answers to all your queries about Water Babies.

How do I pay for my photos?

After the photoshoot, you’ll receive a link to a secure online gallery accessible only by you. There, you can view and select the images you’d like to purchase. To buy the entire gallery, click the orange button on the top right. Payments can be made using a credit or debit card.

Do I get to see the images on the day?

No, the photos aren’t available for viewing immediately. The cameras are housed in waterproof cases, which are opened after the shoot. The images are then sent to editors and will be available online for you to view within two weeks.

What if my little one isn’t feeling up to it on the day?

Your baby’s comfort is paramount. If they’re not feeling well or are uncomfortable, Water Babies will not proceed with the photoshoot. You can arrange with your local office to reschedule for another time when your baby is ready.

Can I have an underwater picture taken with my little one on the day?

Of course! Creating timeless moments between you and your little one is what we do best, it’s no surprise that if you want we will photograph you too. To be in a shot with your little one, you’ll just need to call your local office in advance so that we can make all of the arrangements for the two of you.

Can someone else join me in the pool with my baby for the shoot?

If you would like to be in the picture with your significant other, you must contact your local office to arrange this in advance. This way we can make all of the necessary safety steps ahead of time. 

Can I bring family members to watch?

We want everyone to come and enjoy themselves at our photoshoots. However, not all venues can accommodate spectators so please check with your local office before attending.

What kind of images can I expect to get out of the shoot?

Our photographers and equipment are world-class, so you can feel confident that you’ll be taking home a beautifully crisp, high resolution shot of your baby, striking their best pose. If you want the opportunity to go under with your little one please contact your local office in advance.

What if my baby is feeling unwell on the day of the shoot?

Please contact your local office and let them know you’re unable to attend your underwater photoshoot, they will get you booked onto another shoot as soon as possible. If you’re unsure of your local office’s contact information, click here.

The thought of your little one going on an underwater photoshoot might seem quite daunting, but don’t worry, we’re experts in the field of photographing babies. Simply fill out the form, and we’ll take care of the rest.

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