A STORY TOLD THROUGH WATER
Memoirs of a Muse is a luxury underwater portrait photography where women step into their most ethereal, empowered and artistic selves. Through breathtaking portraits, we capture the divine beauty that already exists within you - weightless, fearless & free.
Underwater Maternity & Boudoir Photography - Sunshine Coast | Memoirs of a Muse
WELCOME TO THE MERLESQUE EXPERIENCE
"I see you. I know what it feels like to lose parts of yourself in life's demands. This is your space to reclaim them." ~ Arielle, founder of Memoirs of a Muse
Our Why?
"FEMININITY IS NOT ONLY POWERFUL BUT PROFOUNDLY BEAUTIFUL "
Femininity is both powerful and profoundly beautiful—yet, in the rush of life, we often forget to embrace it fully.
For us, underwater portrait photography is more than just capturing beautiful portraits—it is about TRANSFORMATION.
As women, we move through life carrying stories, emotions, and the weight of expectations that shape how we see ourselves. Beneath the surface of the water, there is a sacred space—one where gravity releases its hold, noise fades away, and we are left with only the raw essence of who we are. Water has a way of dissolving the weight of expectations, allowing the feminine essence to rise—fluid, free and untamed.
In this weightless world, we invite you to step into your power, your vulnerability, your beauty. The water becomes a mirror, not just reflecting an image but revealing a version of yourself you may have forgotten or never seen before. It strips away self-doubt and replaces it with freedom, confidence, and grace.
Each session is a journey of surrender and discovery. The moment a woman lets go and allows herself to move with the water, something shifts. She is no longer posing; she is becoming. The way she flows, the way her body expresses itself—it's an awakening, a deep reconnection with her own strength and femininity.
We do this because we believe every woman deserves to witness herself in a new light—to see her resilience, softness, and power. Underwater, she is untamed, unbound, and breathtakingly herself.
We have witnessed this transformation firsthand. Women stepping into the water with hesitation and emerging with a glow they never knew they had.
"YOU DESERVE TO SEE YOURSELF AS ART"
You have spent a lifetime admiring beauty in others and everything around you - but have you ever paused to see yourself that way? Underwater, the way you move, the way light dances around you, the way your essence unfolds—it is art. YOU ARE ART. Not because of perfection, but because of presence. Because of the story written in your eyes, the softness in your strength, the power in your stillness. You deserve to see yourself this way—to witness the masterpiece that you already are.
"IT IS MORE THAN PHOTOGRAPHY. IT'S A RECLAMATION OF SELF."
We've seen confidence ignite, vulnerability turn into strength, and self-doubt wash away with every submersion. This is your moment. Let the water reveal the version of you that has always been waiting.
Where Art Meets Empowerment
"You will not be the same woman who walk into the water. Something will change. You will let go of doubt. You'll embrace the moment. And when you rise, you'll see yourself as you were always meant to be - BREATHTAKING!"
This is a promise we make to you.
Words From Our Muse
"I expected beautiful photos, but what I got was so much more. Every shot told a story, every detail was perfect. I never imagined I could look this ethereal, yet here I am, forever captured as a work of art. Thank you for this gift!"
— Isabelle T.
Why Choose Us?
You are here today because our art has sparked novelty and excitement in you. Maybe you finally find a studio that speaks your language: unique, timeless, artistic, transformation and empowerment. As you consider our services, we believe it's important to understand the complex nature of our work. We hope it will help you appreciate the intricacies that go into creating stunning underwater portraits.
- FROM LAND TO LIQUID MUSE:
We have mastered the remarkable ability to transform ordinary individuals (no modelling experience, non-swimmers) into an underwater muse within the span of a 2 hrs photoshoot.
- TURNING SECONDS INTO ARTISTRY:
Underwater photography is defined by its time constraints, where each submersion lasts only a few precious seconds. We possess the skill for turning these brief submersions into stunning artistry.
- POSE GUIDANCE:
Posing underwater can be challenging. We are experts in guiding our muses to achieve grace and elegance beneath the waves.
- TECHNICAL MASTERY:
Underwater portrait photography demands a unique skill set that marries technical mastery with aquatic finesse. We possess a deep understanding of underwater dynamics, buoyancy control, and communication in a submerged world. 15 years of experience!!!
- SPECIALISED GEAR:
Creating breathtaking underwater portraits relies on specialized equipment, waterproof camera housings, underwater strobes, and specialised lenses. We use state-of-the-art equipment to capture your portraits.
VISUAL UNDERSTANDING
- POST-PROCESSING :
We're not a commercial studio driven by deadlines and quotas. We're artisans devoted to our craft. Each portrait is a labour of love - a testament to our dedication and passion. Arielle is a Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP), she brings an additional layer of depth and sensitivity to her work, allowing her to connect on a profound level with each photo. She listens to the whispers of each portrait, deciphering its unique language. It's a process of discovery, of uncovering the soul within.
PRESS/HOVER OVER THE PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE THE BEFORE/AFTER POST-PROCESSING
TRUE ARTISTRY TAKES TIME...
Each of these pieces below underwent 8 hrs of post-processing!
Words From Our Muse
"I was drawn to the idea of underwater photography but wasn’t sure if I could pull it off. The moment I stepped in, all my doubts disappeared. I was guided with such grace and patience, and when I saw the final images, I was absolutely blown away. It’s like stepping into a dream!"
— Amara S.
READY TO SEE YOURSELF IN A WHOLE NEW LIGHT?
Transparency is our priority. Request our Merlesque Information Guide. Get insights into our process and services to ensure your needs are met.
A Gallery Of Fluid Elegance
A Visual Poetry Of Womanhood
MERLESQUE GALLERY
It is a celebration of your femininity, an exploration of your sensuality. It's beyond a mere photoshoot; it's a journey that will leave you feeling empowered and invigorated. This journey is yours, a narrative of self-love and affirmation, a visual poetry of the woman you are.
Words From Our Muse
"This was unlike any photoshoot I’ve ever done. The feeling of floating, the way the fabric moved, the whole atmosphere—it was pure magic. If you’re even thinking about doing this, don’t hesitate. You’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll have a piece of art that reflects your soul."
— Lily V.
MERLESQUE MATERNITY GALLERY
Immerse yourself in a truly enchanting journey that's as unique as your journey into motherhood itself. It is an experience that celebrates, immortalises and commemorates your wonderful journey in the most breathtaking way possible. It's not just a photoshoot; it's a journey of bonding, empowerment, and timeless artistry.
Words From Our Muse
"From the moment I arrived, I felt taken care of. The makeup, the styling, the gentle direction in the water—it all came together so effortlessly. The final images captured a side of me I’ve never seen before. I felt like a goddess, and now I have the proof."
— Emma L.
How We Work
STEP ONE
THE EXPERIENCE
THE REVEAL & ORDERING DAY
ALL SESSIONS INCLUDE
Words From Our Muse
"Stepping into the water felt like stepping into another world. I was nervous at first, but the way I was guided through every movement made me feel powerful and weightless. When I saw my images, I couldn't believe it was me. This wasn’t just a photoshoot—it was a transformation."
— Sophia M.
STEP INTO THE WATER. STEP INTO YOUR POWER!
Request our Merlesque Information Guide. Get insights into our process and services to ensure your needs are met.
Why Be Normal When You Can Be Magical
Memoirs of a Muse - Empowering photography for women