Since their very first wedding inquiry, Jenny mentioned that she and her fiancé Matt are scuba divers and had dreamed of doing underwater engagement photos. As a fellow diver and lover of adventurous photo sessions, I said yes right away. After hearing more about their vision, we discussed options for safe and accessible underwater photo sessions in Puerto Rico, and I knew this was going to be one of those experiences I’d never forget.

Puerto Rico’s clear, tropical waters make it one of the most unique underwater photography destinations in the Caribbean. Whether you’re planning an underwater engagement, a creative underwater wedding photoshoot, or even a fun post-wedding adventure, the island’s natural beauty offers countless ways to bring those ideas to life beneath the surface.

I have this tradition of waiting until a couple’s wedding day to blog their engagement session, but I’ve been dying to share these for months. Luckily, the day has arrived, and here they are.

Underwater Portrait Photography in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is surrounded by water, but not every spot works for underwater photography. Pools are usually the safest and most predictable option, which is why many underwater photographers worldwide rely on them. I don’t own a pool (yet), but in the past, some clients have coordinated with their hotels to use one early in the morning, before guests arrive. It’s a great plan A—especially when you want comfort and control.

Still, I’ve always been drawn to natural settings. The ocean, as beautiful as it is, can be unpredictable with tides and currents. Rivers are prone to flash floods, and lakes often have murky or dark water. That’s why I love scouting the freshwater springs along Puerto Rico’s north coast—they’re crystal clear, cool, and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. They offer the perfect mix of adventure, beauty, and safety for underwater couple photography.

I don’t take every client to these locations since they usually involve hiking or a bit of climbing in remote areas. But when the right couple comes along, it’s so worth it. Jenny and Matt were absolutely the right match for this kind of adventure.

What to Expect from an Underwater Photoshoot

An underwater couple photoshoot isn’t for everyone. Swimming skills are essential, but more than that, it’s about feeling calm and comfortable while holding your breath underwater. These sessions always happen in shallow waters, so you can stand up at any time—but it takes practice to relax enough to stay down, pose, and let go.

Even for seasoned divers like Jenny and Matt, it took us about 30 minutes to feel at ease moving gracefully underwater, posing for a few seconds, and surfacing with a smile. Unlike other sessions where I chase golden light, bright sunny days are ideal for underwater engagement photography. We rely on sunlight to illuminate the water and keep everyone warm.

Many couples ask me how to prepare for an underwater photoshoot. My best advice is to practice holding your breath calmly and choose clothing that moves beautifully underwater—think flowy fabrics, soft colors, and textures that dance with the light. The goal isn’t to look perfect, but to capture that effortless, weightless connection between two people in love.

Adventure Engagement at a Hidden Freshwater Spring in Puerto Rico

We began our underwater engagement session outside the water, taking a few portraits in the surrounding tropical scenery before diving in. The sunlight filtered through the trees, and it already felt magical. Once we were ready, we slipped into the cool, fresh spring and started experimenting with poses beneath the surface.

Halfway through, the weather shifted and clouds rolled in, cooling the water even more. We took a break to warm up, laughed about our shivers, and went for one last round before sunset. The result was a collection of images that feel serene, romantic, and adventurous all at once.

Shooting in this hidden spring on Puerto Rico’s north coast reminded me why I love what I do. It takes patience and trust to create these images, but the reward is unlike any other. Jenny and Matt’s underwater engagement photos capture not just their love story, but also the joy of exploring something new together.

I’m endlessly grateful to adventurous couples like Jenny and Matt who trust me to bring their wildest ideas to life. If you’ve ever dreamed of your own underwater photo session in Puerto Rico, whether for your engagement, honeymoon, or wedding, I’d love to help make it happen.

xo,
Cami