These Extraordinary Underwater Maternity Photos Redefine Pregnancy Pictures

Updated on 6/26/2018 at 11:40 AM

There's no shortage of options when it comes to maternity photos, but in the end, they all pretty much look the same — pregnant woman cradling her burgeoning belly (sometimes clothed, often not) with a knowing look in her eye. But sometimes a photographer and his subject take it one step further — and one step wetter.

We've seen underwater maternity photos before — Beyoncé just released her maternity photos, which include a few underwater snaps — but nothing prepared us for the beauty and artistry of Adam Opris's portraits. The Palm Beach, FL-based photographer told us:

"I grew up in South Florida in the ocean, and being in the water has always been second nature for me. As my wedding photography business progressed, I always loved how the brides that I captured came to me for their maternity pictures after they got pregnant. I am always looking to push the envelope with my photography, and when I saw underwater photos from around the world, I realized that I could bring clients into this underwater world. After a few test shoots, I realized that the options underwater are limitless."

Opris went on to test those limits with some of the most stunning maternity photos we've ever seen. Read on to see them, and get the story behind the process.

"I got my first inquiry from a pregnant mom-to-be and decided to go for it."

"After doing some research on safety and pregnancy, I realized that being in the water was not only safe when done right, but recommended for pregnant women, as it is a great way to relieve stress off their backs and joints."

"Once I captured my first underwater maternity shoot and realized what a great experience she had, I knew this was something that would be great to offer my new moms!"

"[Moms] are usually hesitant. I am asking women who, most of the time, are not too comfortable being photographed to jump into a pool with clothes on and bend and twist around."

"Most women have a fear of not looking graceful while holding their breath."

"I try to make every shoot fun and relaxing, and I have learned the key moments when they will look their best."

"By teaching them the best way to pose and how to position themselves underwater, they always seem to let loose and have a fun day in the water."

"Each photo shoot lasts roughly an hour and a half."

"With multiple outfits to change into, plus the initial comfort phase/learning curve, after about 90 minutes, when everyone's hands turn pruney, we normally have a large collection of unique images."

"I make sure that they are not underwater for more than a few seconds at a time. Safety is always my number one concern."

"The object is to keep the mother-to-bes calm and stress-free."

"I always make sure there is constant communication between each breath hold and plenty of rest to ensure no undue stress is put on the mother or the child."

"The most rewarding thing about these photo shoots is the feeling of accomplishment I get from my clients when they see the results."

"Most of the time, they cannot believe they were capable of doing so great, and when they see themselves in the photos, I can tell we just created memories that will always be cherished."