The California Mermaid Convention is proud to partner with many eminent photographers, local to California!
Whether you are a professional mermaid, a cosplayer, a mermaid enthusiast, or a modeling newbie, we have a photo package for everyone. Shoot underwater, on dry land, or both!
Scroll down for our Photo Shoot Session Packages
Please see below for our current Photo Shoot offerings and make sure to check back for updates in our programming.
We are so proud to once again work with master underwater photographer, Brett Stanley. We are not exaggerating when we say that Brett has been a pioneer and leader in underwater photography for over a decade; he has traveled all corners of the globe teaching workshops and coaching underwater sessions. Brett has photographed and partnered with some of the most famous merfolk and underwater performers of our era. Don't miss out on the opportunity to shoot with this icon!
About Brett Stanley
Brett is renowned for his creative underwater portrait work and has made a name for himself as an innovative photographer pushing the boundaries of this niche genre. He specialises in creating unique underwater sets for his clients to play in, stretching the imaginations of his viewers, and challenging the technology available to bring these worlds to life – even to the point of manufacturing his own equipment to complete the task. His images have been seen and published world wide, in magazines and album covers, and even a few awards.
As an underwater performance coach, Brett knows how to get the best out of people when they are in the water – even those who have never performed below the surface before, and those who might not know how to swim! His patient and calm nature helps to bring a peace to the set, creating an environment where the work is not rushed but polished.
-Photo Sessions take place on Friday, May 19th 2023 and Saturday, May 20th 2023
-Models must be able to safely tread water for 10 min without assistance to participate in all underwater photoshoots
-Models will receive a gallery of images to choose two images for a final edit
-Models may purchase more edits directly from the photographer, if desired
-Sessions are 30 minutes in length
-Model must bring their own costume to shoot
-Shoot includes entry to Main Convention on Saturday, May 20th
-Two models may book a session together
Dive into a new world with our underwater photographer Liz. This emerging underwater photographer has been working with the convention since 2021 and is ready to create some watery magic with you.
About Liz
Liz Marchiondo is an image creator that enjoys photographing everything from mers, to roller derby, to things under a microscope! Liz is based in the Sacramento area and when not photographing on land, is experimenting with 3D underwater photogrammetry captures, SCUBA diving up and down the California coast, or working at Dolphin SCUBA Center. Liz also volunteers on the Board of the Dolphin Divers of Sacramento dive club and was adopted by the NorCal Merpod in 2022.
-Photo Sessions take place on Friday, May 19th 2023 and Saturday, May 20th 2023
-Models must be able to safely tread water for 10 min without assistance to participate in all underwater photoshoots
-Models will receive a gallery of images to choose three images for a final edit
-Models may purchase more edits directly from the photographer, if desired
-Sessions are 30 minutes in length
-Model must bring their own costume to shoot
-Up to one model may book a session
Sometimes mermaids get caught in a net...and that's a good thing ;) This year at the California Mermaid Convention, Mikey the Rigger brings a special photo opportunity for our guests. Spin through the air in a special mermaid hammock or saucer and capture images like you've never had before!
Mickey the Rigger Says
"I'm a rigger with a passion for bringing people's circus goals to life. One of my favorite ways to do this is by setting up my aerial rig at mermaid gatherings, where I create a unique and exciting experience that allows attendees to feel like they're a "fish out of water". Using a specially designed aerial net or saucer, I provide a safe and secure platform for merfolk to take stunning social media photos.
As a rigger, safety is my top priority, and I take great care in ensuring that every aspect of my setup is secure and reliable. I work closely with the performers to ensure that they are comfortable and confident in their movements, allowing them to fully embrace the thrill of flying. I feel honored to be able to contribute to the mermaid community in such a unique and meaningful way. Seeing these beautiful creatures live their dream of flying is truly a joy, and I am always excited to bring this experience to new audiences. "
Aerial Photo Op FAQ
-Photo Ops are first come, first serve on site at convention on May 20th, 2023. A sign up sheet will be posted on site. If you miss your time slot, it is forefit to the next guest.
-Aerial photos will be available from 11 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 5 PM
-Guests will have 15 minutes to shoot in the hammock net OR the saucer
-Guests will shoot images and video on their own phones or cameras
-Pricing for this opportunity is $30 and payment instructions will be on site
We are fortunate to have procured the time and skill from our absolutely wonderful roaming event photographer, Lee Harland Photography for the duration of the Convention. Be sure to give them a big smile if you see his cameras around the con!
It is important to us at The California Mermaid Convention to capture the magic and fun of all three days of events! Our roaming photographers will be onsite at each location, making sure not a moment of merriment is lost.
We will be posting images from our staff photographer on our social media pages after the event for all to see and share
Group Photos will take place at our Main Event - exact location tba at the event. ANYONE can join in our group photos; the more the MER-ier
Group Photo Schedule
11 AM: Society of Fat Mermaids Group Photo
12:30 PM: Convention Wide Group Photo
3 PM: Bipoc Mer Group Photo
4:30 PM: Transand Non-Binary Group Photo
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