Underwater Renaissance Women Pt. 2 (Patreon)

Part 2 from this lovely painterly set. 

There were so many lovely shots from this session; I still have 2 other scenes waiting to be shared from the afternoon. Petra posted about how she thought she looked so much better than she actually did in the photos, and it reminded me of how difficult it really is to get to where I am in my career and talents. I think because of my background in dance and gymnastics, I already have a lot more control, confidence, and perception over my body at all times. It's funny how the things we do as children can lead up to our passions and hobbies and careers later in life. I'd still be a good model without those things, but I do think they helped shape the way I move and think today. I've had so many people say they can tell I was a former dancer by the way I move when making my art. I think it translates well underwater, when I am weightless and quiet and content. 

I reminded Petra that I had been doing it for years and for her first time it really wasn't bad at all. It's hard because you have to fight your natural instincts to swim. You also don't take a deep breath of air like you would go a normal playful dive in the swimming pool. To successfully model underwater, you typically release your air so you can sink below the surface without floating right back up; the more oxygen in your lungs, the more buoyant you are. You also, as I mentioned before, do not swim (unless that is the look you're going for). You just float and dance and move gracefully and slowly. You pretend you are an underwater ballerina, twirling easily without gravity. 

It's so peaceful there. So quiet. Not like it is above the water. When you're underneath, it is a timeless eternity and quiet comfort. 

Photography by Vizions of Mize
with Petra Morrigan Stoker
Gowns thrifted
Georgia 2023