It's always cool to have pre-wedding photos that differ from the norm — and photographer Tuck Hong of Tuckys Photography has tapped a unique type that you might just be interested in: Underwater engagement photos.
He "fell" into underwater photography thanks to a client who had proposed to his girlfriend while they were diving. "I was very interested in bringing this special element into their pre-wedding shoot," says Tuck Hong, who has 15 years' experience in photography. "So we set up a timeline and I started learning diving, bought my equipment as soon as I completed my open-water course — and we did the underwater shoot six months later!"
Four years on, and Tuck Hong has continued to shoot couples both in and out of the water, honing his underwater technique along the way. He shares some tips with us.
Get certified
It's helpful if the couple are experienced divers or have had some experience, to get familiar with air sharing, the buddy diving system and using compressed air to stay underwater longer. Uncertified couples must go through an orientation course and warm-up sessions in the pool.
Rehearse your poses
Facial expressions are most difficult to pull off while underwater. Try to relax and open your eyes underwater. It's much harder in pools, due to the chlorine in them, which is why Tuck Hong prefers deep-sea diving.
Clear skies, great photos
Avoid the monsoon season, and pray for sunlight — which also warms the water and makes it more comfortable for the couple. They can spend up to eight hours posing for pictures.
Go for floating outfits
Lightweight fabrics like chiffon and organza gracefully flow in the water. Light silk is good, too, but dyed silks can lose some colour underwater.
Plan good breaks
Prepare lots of towels and hot drinks for when you surface for breaks. Things can get chilly!
