Our First Underwater Modeling Workshop in the Cenotes of Riviera Maya

After some months of planning, the day finally arrived for our first Underwater Modeling Workshop and mini photoshoot in Riviera Maya!

Together with the incredibly talented professional mermaid Mari Delgado, we brought our shared passion for underwater beauty to life. Mari’s expertise in underwater movement, breath control, and natural posing made her the perfect partner for this unique workshop experience.

We welcomed a small group of four amazing women, each with different swimming abilities and levels of experience underwater, which only made the day more dynamic, fun, and empowering.

 

Collection of clips of a Underwater modeling workshop in a cenote close to Tulum with Fran Reina

 

What Happens at an Underwater Modeling Workshop?

We designed this workshop to be both educational and inspiring, a safe, creative space for women to connect, learn, and challenge themselves through underwater photography in cenotes.

 
Ladies choosing outfits for an underwater photoshoot in a cenote in Riviera Maya

Outfit Selection: The Pre-Dive Glam

We kicked off the day choosing outfits for the photoshoot. It felt like getting ready for a night out with close friends with lots of suggestions, encouragement, and fun!

If you don’t have a specific outfit for your underwater photoshoot, no worries. I always bring a suitcase filled with flowing fabrics, dresses, and styling accessories that work beautifully underwater. You can mix and match your own pieces with mine, or rent my flying dresses and mermaid tails to really elevate the look.

If you need ideas, check out my underwater outfit guide for inspiration!

 

Underwater Posing & Breathwork Basics

Before diving in, we took time to cover some essential underwater posing tips, breathwork techniques, and safety basics.

Together with Mari, we shared everything from how to pose gracefully underwater, to what expressions and movements to avoid, how to use your breath for buoyancy and comfort, and how to stay fully aware of your body while submerged.

We even practiced some poses on land, which led to lots of laughs and helped everyone loosen up. It was the perfect way to ease into the shoot.

 
3 ladies in a jungle setting getting ready for an underwater photothsoot
A woman making poses next to a cenote before an underwater photoshoot
 

Diving Into the Cenote

Then came the best part: diving into the crystal-clear waters of the cenote!

Even though no one was afraid of being underwater, trying something completely new can always bring some nerves. But the energy of the group, filled with support, laughter, and encouragement, made it easy for everyone to relax, explore, and embrace their inner model.

Throughout the shoot, they each posed in different outfits and spots around the cenote. And as the day progressed, I could literally see the transformation in each one of them: more confidence, more freedom, and more joy.

This wasn’t just a photoshoot. It was a powerful personal experience.

 
A white woman posing in an orange flying dress for an underwater photoshoot in a crystal clear cenote between Tulum and Playa del Carmen
A free diver, posing for an underwater portrait in a cenote in Cancun
A white woman posing with a blue mermaid tail for a cenote underwater photoshoot in Mexico
A mexican woman posing underwater for a photoshoot, wearing a white flowy dress
A white woman posing in a yellow dress for an underwater shoot in a cenote in Playa del Carmen
 

Why Underwater Photography in Cenotes is so Special

There’s something magical about the cenotes of the Riviera Maya. Surrounded by nature and immersed in crystal-clear water, you feel totally connected to your body and your surroundings.

Underwater portraits taken in these unique natural pools aren’t just visually stunning, they’re deeply empowering. You learn to let go, breathe deeply, and move with intention. And in doing so, you unlock a version of yourself that’s strong, graceful, and glowing with self-confidence.

 
A Mexican woman posing underwater in a cenote, feeling happy, wearing a white dress
A white woman wearing a red dress for an underwater photoshoot in a cenote in Playa del Carmen

Leaving With More Than Just Photos

By the end of the day, we had all exchanged contacts, shared laughs, and left with that warm post-adventure buzz. Everyone received their underwater portraits and video clips, which are not just souvenirs but a beautiful proof of what they’re capable of.

We created memories, formed friendships, and inspired each other — and we can’t wait to do it again.

 
A white woman posing for an underwater shoot wearing an orange flying dress in a cenote
A white woman in a Mermaid tail for an underwater photoshoot in Playa del Carmen
 

Want to Join the Next One?

If this sounds like something you’d love to experience, don’t miss the next Underwater Modeling Workshop and mini shoot! Whether you're experienced in the water or a total beginner, this is for you.

If you are interested, sign up for my waiting list for updates on the next date!

 
Previous
Previous

Underwater Photoshoot Makeup Tips: Natural vs. Glam Looks in Cenotes

Next
Next

Afraid of Water or Don’t Know How to Swim? You Can Still Have a Magical Underwater Portrait Photoshoot in a Cenote!