About Underwater Photography
(or, Why You Should Try It!)

Why Underwater?

"All of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea — whether it is to sail or to watch it — we are going back from whence we came." — John F. Kennedy

There's a reason underwater images stop people in their tracks. Something about them feels both foreign and deeply familiar — and maybe Kennedy said it best.

After forty years of traditional photography, Jim Hobart went looking for a challenge that would make him a beginner again. In 2018, he picked up an underwater housing and jumped in the pool. He hasn't looked back since.

The Art of It

Underwater images look weightless, dreamlike, elemental — but that quality doesn't happen on its own. It's the result of meticulous preparation, a deep understanding of how light behaves beneath the surface, and a genuine collaboration between photographer and subject. Both have to give everything. When it works, the results are unlike anything achievable on land.

One longtime collaborator dubbed Jim a "Light Bender" — someone who captures light above and below the surface in ways that feel genuinely new. That's the goal with every session.

"Working with Jim is always a fun time and the results are magical." — Veronica
“I love working with Jim because he gives me constructive feedback that leads to amazing photos.” — Cristina
Read more on our Testimonials page →

About Jim

Jim Hobart has been photographing people for most of his life. After a career in advertising and marketing, he spent twenty years running a headshot studio — working with every kind of person imaginable, from those who love the camera to those who'd genuinely prefer a root canal.

That experience shaped a core belief: professional photography is 10% technical and 90% psychological. You have to earn trust quickly, and help people feel calm and capable — usually within the first five minutes. It turns out that's the perfect training for underwater work, where trust isn't just helpful. It's everything.

"I've worked with multiple underwater photographers, and Jim is by far the best." — Roxy
See what others are saying →

It's Hard Work —
and Worth Every Bit of It

We won't sugarcoat it: underwater photography is demanding. It takes stamina, focus, and a willingness to let the water do some of the work. Even experienced models are often surprised by how much effort is involved — and how rewarding the results are.

"I had no idea the stamina it takes, the release of control it takes — and how to truly just flow with the water." — Michelina
"It is definitely hard work, but so rewarding." — Lanie

First-Timers Welcome

You don't need to be a swimmer, a model, or an athlete. Aquatic Pictures works with people at every level of comfort and experience, with packages to fit any skill level or budget. Every session includes a posing coach and safety swimmer in the water with you — there to help with positioning, timing, and making sure you feel safe and supported throughout.

"Jim was patient and made me feel comfortable the entire session." — Jan Marie
"He was so understanding of any fears I had, and so encouraging." — Lanie

Ready to Try It?

Whether you're a performer seeking dramatic portfolio work, a couple wanting something truly unique, or simply someone curious — we'd love to talk.

Contact us to discuss your session or explore our packages.

Follow the work on Instagram: @aquaticpicture