Where are you based?
Mexico is home!
I live in Playa del Carmen, but I cover the entire Riviera Maya, which is the tourist area from Cancun to Tulum.
“Before I start posting these amazing underwater photos I want to first thank Fran for her amazing eye. Queen you did an AMAZING job photographing the images I had in my head. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. They are absolutely beautiful!”
— Hooda
Do I need to know how to swim?
No, you don’t.
Although a good comfort level in the water will be helpful, there is no actual swimming involved in the underwater photoshoot.
My assistants will tow you around the cenote with a floating ring. We shoot either in shallow water or somewhere close to a rock that you can hold onto.
I will always just be a few feet away from you and my assistants will be right beside us ready to intervene at the first sign of discomfort.
“Everything about this experience was wonderful. I unleashed my inner mermaid while feeling totally comfortable and safe.”
— Barbara
How long do I need to hold my breath?
Not very long, we only need a few seconds to capture a good photo.
We’ll make sure you stay within your breath-hold comfort zone, so it will be easy to relax and look your best :)
“I loved everything about my Birthday underwater photoshoot. Fran and Rossina, you two made this experience easy! Your professionalism from beginning to end has been amazing!”
— Keesha
Do I have to open my eyes underwater?
It’s entirely up to you.
Keeping the eyes closed gives a calm and dreamy look to the image. Keeping the eyes open, as long as the gaze is soft, will look great too.
If you are unsure and would like to try to open your eyes for the first time underwater, the cenote is the perfect place to try. It is filled with fresh rainwater, which is very gentle on your eyes.
“I can highly recommend Fran for an underwater photoshoot. She is professional, easy to work with, and produces amazing material! Besides going home with beautiful photos, you’ll have an exciting and fun day, that you ll never forget. She is the absolute best!”
— Kirsten
What about contact lenses?
I recommend you remove them for the duration of the shoot.
If you open your eyes underwater with the contacts on, they might move around and you could lose them. But If you decide to wear them anyway, you can either keep your eyes closed or bring spare contacts in case they fall out.
“One of the most unique experiences I've ever had in Mexico! Fran was friendly, patient and very helpful to make this first time perfect. Cannot wait to try this again! Thank you so much!”
— Courtney
What about the outfit I am going to wear?
I recommend long and flowy dresses and skirts, preferably solid and bright colors.
I do provide some props that you can use, mainly colorful scarves and fabrics, but if you have something specific in mind we can definitely chat about it further.
Just make sure you also bring a swimsuit or a bikini you’d be comfortable wearing..
“Incredible time working with Francesca. She is truly a woman of water, patient and talented! I highly recommend booking a shoot with her if you can!”
— Tania
I am pregnant, is the underwater shoot safe for the baby and myself?
Yes, it is!
Holding your breath for only a few seconds at a time will cause no harm to the baby. My assistants and I will take excellent care of you and your needs, ensuring you won’t become too tired or cold. Furthermore, you will actually find relief in moving weightlessly in the water.
I recommend you plan your maternity underwater shoot when you are 7/8 months in when your baby bump will be nice and visible.
“Great experience and very professional in taking our underwater maternity shoot. The team walked you thru above water, how to take pictures, which was critical to our shoot. Very patient and made the experience fun. I would highly recommend”
— Nicole
Do I have to dive deep underneath the surface?
Nope, a few inches below the surface is enough!
It is the best depth for the shoot, where I can capture your mirror-like reflection off the surface.
“Working with Francesca has been a phenomenal experience. From the moment we met her, she was graceful and kind enough to show us the techniques needed to depict everlasting photos underwater. We loved working with Francesca. She was so kind and patient! Would totally do it again!”
— Judith
Do you photoshop the images?
Yes and no.
The underwater photos require a great amount of post-processing work. My edits are done to bring out more beauty from the photos by working with the textures, colors, and lighting. I will not do any heavy alterations that will modify the shape of your body because I firmly believe all bodies and their shapes are most beautiful the way they are. I want to have you wowing about an image of yourself that is 100% true to your beauty.
