The Weightless muse promise

Being photographed can be intimidating, and it can make you feel vulnerable. That's especially true with underwater photography. That's why every underwater session at The Weightless Muse comes with a promise. Whether you're here for boudoir, maternity, a milestone, or simply for you, each session belongs to you. You set the pace, you choose what is shown, and nothing happens without your consent. I want you to feel safe, worry-free, and prepared to have fun. You're about to embark on an amazing experience. 

Before Your Session

We'll talk about you. Your consultation is all about you. We'll discuss how you'd like to feel, what you're celebrating, and anything special you'd like me to know or that I need to know. There are no wrong answers.

You choose what is shown. Boudoir is not about taking skimpy photos. It's about empowerment. It's about celebrating you. You decide whether to show scars, stretch marks, your belly, arms, toes, or anything else you may feel self-conscious or uncomfortable about. You decide whether to be fully covered, partly covered, or more. Your comfort level matters most, and I will always honor your choice completely.  I will never suggest anything you're not comfortable with.

Your health comes first. If you're pregnant, recovering from surgery or treatment, or have any medical considerations, I'll ask you to consult with your doctor or care team before we get into the water. 

You'll know what to expect. I'll walk you through the day ahead of time. We'll discuss arrival, parking, what to bring, makeup options, safety, the underwater experience, what happens after the shoot, timeframe for images, and product purchase options. There should be no surprises. 

You're welcome to bring someone. Feel free to bring a friend, a support person, your spouse, or partner. 

Children are not allowed. Because getting into the pool is a major temptation for young children, I'd ask you to refrain from bringing children unless they are to be included in a maternity family shot underwater. There will need to be someone else available to watch the child while we are in the water. The primary reason for the no-children policy is safety, especially theirs.

During Your Session

No swimming experience needed. We'll start in the shallow end and practice breathing together until you feel comfortable. It's about releasing the air and sinking to the bottom. It's less about swimming and more about slow, graceful movements. Many clients have never been underwater with their mouths or eyes open before. 

Nothing without your consent. Any fabric or wardrobe adjustments will be made by my female safety swimmer, and never by me. She will always ask for permission first. Many times, she will show you so you can make the adjustments yourself. I'll guide your poses with words only, or personal demonstration. 

You can pause anytime. Though we will take frequent breaks, you can stop the session at any time for any reason. Your comfort and safety are the most important part of underwater photography sessions. 

Your safety is covered.  A female CPR-certified lifeguard safety swimmer is in the pool with us at all times during our session. This is for both your safety and mine while underwater.  Sometimes the safety swimmer will be taking behind-the-scenes video, but she will always be there to untangle dresses and assist if you panic or are struggling in any way. 

You'll always know what's next. I'll explain poses, make tweaks along the way, discuss wardrobe changes, how to get in and out of the water safely, warm-up procedures, set changes, how long to stay underwater, and always answer any questions you have. 

There is no rush. Breaks are built into each session. Rest, warm up, or take a moment whenever you need one. Snacks and water will always be available if needed. There is no set time limit for the session. We'll take as long as we need to get the images you desire.

Your comfort matters. A warm, private changing tent is available for wardrobe changes. Sometimes you might feel chilled from the wind blowing across the water. Though the pool is heated between 90 and 94 degrees, the wind can make you uncomfortable, especially when getting out of the water. That's why I always provide the heated canopy tent next to the pool, along with a robe for your comfort and warmth. 

After the Session

Your images are private. Your gallery is secure and shared only with you. Nothing is shared without your permission. No image, name, or story is posted, displayed, or used in marketing unless you agree in writing. 
You approve every word. Should you choose to share your story, you'll review the images and captions before anything goes public, and you can change your mind at any time. 

What You'll Take Home

You'll leave seeing yourself as strong, free, beautiful, and exactly as you are, with fine-art images that you'll treasure for a lifetime. It really is an empowering, fun experience, and each time you pass a piece of wall art, you'll be reminded of the joy and fulfillment that come from celebrating you. 
Most women say the experience changes how they see themselves long after the session ends. 

Don't wait for "someday" to see yourself the way people who love you already do.