Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Ask Questions

1Where are you located?
We are located on the Sunshine Coast 80km north of Brisbane, Australia.
2How soon do I have to book my shoot?
The earlier the better! We have very limited spots available. We recommend booking at least 2 months in advance. But feel free to reach out, and we'll do our best to accomodate your schedule. For a maternity photoshoot, book as early as 20 weeks. That will give us time to prepare the photoshoot from both ends, yours and ours. For a self-love experience at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
3What if I’m not a strong swimmer?
No worries at all! You don’t need to be an expert swimmer to create stunning underwater portraits. Many of my muses have little to no swimming experience. We shoot in a controlled, shallow water environment, and I guide you through gentle movements that feel natural and effortless. You are always in control, and we take breaks as needed.
4How long does the experience last?
Each experience is unique. However most session last around 4 hrs where you spend 2 hrs in the water. Every movement is guided, and we take breaks to ensure you're comfortable and energised. The experience is as immersive as it is transformative, and we go at your pace to create something truly unforgettable.
5Are you available for weekend photo shoots?
Our Underwater Portrait Sessions are weekdays: Mondays and Fridays.
6Does Memoirs of a Muse provide the outfits?
e have a stunning collection of dresses available for our pregnant muses and self-love sessions. These 8-meter fabric dresses create breathtaking underwater visuals, flowing beautifully in the water. Our range includes white, gold, coral pink, fuchsia, red, and teal. However, we also encourage you to bring your own attire to ensure your photoshoot is a true reflection of who you are.
7What should you bring?
We recommend bringing at least three to four different outfits to give you a variety of stunning looks. Choose pieces that make you feel beautiful and empowered—such as a bodysuit, a robe, a two-piece lingerie set, or a flowing dress. Once you've booked your session, we'll guide you through every step to ensure you feel confident and prepared.
8Can I bring props or accessories?
Yes! Props can add a surreal, storytelling element to your portraits. Flowing scarves, delicate crowns, dramatic capes, or even meaningful objects can elevate the imagery. If you have an idea in mind, let’s collaborate to make it unforgettable.
9Will my clothes be affected by the pool water?
Our pool is half salt and half chlorine, perfectly balanced and hasn’t degraded any clothes in the past. We rinse your clothes right away following our shoot so they’ll be clean and dry when you’ll leave us.
10What background colors can you choose from?
The mood and tone of your artwork depending on the preference of background you’ll make. There is the option of a lighter tone or a darker tone set by a white or black background. We'll explore more in our conversations towards the shoot.
11What about Make Up?
Make-up is included as part of your experience. We work with a professional makeup artist who will help you look and feel your best, ensuring your makeup complements the underwater settings and enhances your natural beauty. We want you to feel like the most confident self, both in front of the camera and in the water.
12What if i can't hold my breath for long?
No worries at all! Underwater The Merlesque Experience is about movement, not a breath-holding contests. We work in short burst-just a few seconds at a time- to capture the perfect moment. With gentle cues and guidance, you'll be surprised at how natural it feels. And remember, you're always in control of your comfort level.
13How much should you expect to invest?
Be prepared to fall in love with every image from your session—yes, we’re that good! Our muses often find it hard to choose their favorites and end up wanting them all. On average, our clients invest around $4000 to $5000 in their session and chosen artwork.
14Can I have the price-list?
Transparency is our priority, and we want you to make a conscious, informed decision with confidence. Our exclusive Information Guide includes the full price list and details about our bespoke experience. We’ll provide this to you so you can explore all your options and envision the perfect way to preserve your artwork.
15When do I pay for my artwork?
Your investment in your artwork is made at your Reveal & Ordering Appointment, where you’ll have the opportunity to select your favorite images. At this time, payment is required to proceed with the creation of your final pieces. We also offer flexible payment options to ensure you can bring home the artwork you love in a way that suits you.
16Do you offer Payment Plans?
Yes! Investing in your art and self-expression should feel exciting not stressful. We offer flexible payment plans to make this experience accessible. Full detailed in your 'Information Guide"
17How long do you keep my photographs?
We archive your final purchased images for safekeeping, ensuring they remain preserved for you. However, any unedited or unpurchased images are not stored long-term and will be deleted after your Reveal & Ordering Appointment. We highly recommend securing your favorite pieces during your session to ensure they are yours forever.
18How soon can I get my Wall Art?
Straight after FULL payment is made, we will start the processing process. Each order varies, depending on the amount and complexity of the photos you ordered. However, we try our best to deliver in with the 4 weeks mark. It could be 1 or two weeks over depending on the situation.
19What if I have to cancel or postpone the photo shoot?
You can postpone your photo-shoot until two weeks before the shoot without losing your non-refundable booking fee. However, an additional admin fee of $100, for the new date is required. There will be no refund for any reason after this time. However, there is a non-refundable policy for cancellation.
20What if it is raining on the day of the photo-shoot?
Memoirs of a Muse reserves the right to postpone the photo-shoot and reschedule caused by weather conditions
21I am not a model, I've never done a photoshoot on my life?
In 12 years, we have never used a professional model for our shoot and portfolio. All the ladies you see on your Instagram, Facebook, and websites are not models. They all come from different walks of life, different shapes, and sizes, different stories, different levels of confidence in water, different levels of confidence in their body. One common factor they all have in common, is they all want to feel beautiful. Through our guidance, expertise, and fun, we will prove to you that you are as beautiful and capable than any other women. Who you are is enough!
22Can my partner be in the photoshoot?
Your partner can be in the shoot with you.
23I'm not photogenic. will i look good underwater?
You don't need to be a model to create breathtaking portraits-You just need to be YOU. The water does something magical: it softens, elongates, and transforms movement into pure artistry. With expert guidance on posing, lightning, and flow, I promise you'll see yourself in a way you never have before-ethereal, powerful, and absolutely stunning.
24what happens after the photoshoot?
After the session, The magic continues! Arielle will carefully curate and a light retouch to 40 to 80 of your most breathtaking images to bring out their full artistic beauty. Within 1 to 2 weeks, you will be invited to your virtiual reveal session, where you will see your portraits for the first time and seslect your favourites. This ensures that every portrait you receive is one you truly love and fell deeply connected to.
25What if I have long hair? Will it be messy?
Long hair creates some of the most magical underwater effects! We use gentle movement and water flow to create stunning shapes, giving your portraits an ethereal quality. If you prefer a more polished look, we can style your hair in braids or loose waves that still move beautifully in water.
26What if I'm nervous?
That's completely natural-most of our muses start out feeling a little nervous. But the moment you into the water, something shifts. The weights of the world disappears, and all that's ;eft is flow, beauty, and freedom. We'll guide you step of the way, making sure you feel safe, comfortable, and radiant. By the end, you won't just feel confident-You'll feel transformed!
27Can I book a session as a gift for someone?
Yes! An underwater portrait experience is one of the most unique and unforgettable gifts you can give. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a celebration of self-love, you can purchase a gift certificate or arrange a surprise session. Imagine gifting someone the chance to see themselves as art—it’s an experience they’ll cherish forever.
28What if I need to reschedule?
Life happens! If you need to reschedule, just let me know as soon as possible, and we’ll find a new date that works for you. A small rescheduling fee may apply depending on how much notice is given, but I always try to be as flexible as possible.
29Is underwater photography safe?
Your safety is my top priority. We shoot in a controlled environment with shallow water, and I guide you through every movement at your own pace. You never have to go underwater for long, and we take breaks as needed. If at any point you feel uncomfortable, we adjust—this experience is about feeling free, not pressured.
30What happens if I feel uncomfortable during the shoot?
Your comfort is my top priority. If at any point you feel uneasy, we stop, adjust, and go at your pace. There is no pressure to push beyond what feels good for you. The water is a space of freedom, not stress, and we’ll find movements that feel natural and empowering to you.
31What’s the difference between a studio photoshoot and an underwater session?
Studio photography captures beauty, but underwater photography captures something deeper—a feeling of freedom, weightlessness, and raw emotion. The water softens edges, extends movement, and transforms even the simplest gestures into something otherworldly. If you’re looking for a portrait that feels like a dream, an underwater session is unlike anything else.
32"Can I book a session if I’m pregnant?
Yes! Underwater maternity sessions create some of the most breathtaking images, celebrating the beauty and strength of pregnancy in a way that feels almost mythical. The water provides gentle support, allowing for effortless movement and comfort. Let’s create something that captures this powerful moment in your journey.
33What if I have tattoos or scars?
: Every mark on your body tells a story, and I believe in celebrating that. If you’d like any scars or tattoos subtly softened in editing, just let me know. But more often than not, these unique details add depth and meaning to your images, making them even more powerful.
34What should I expect after I book?
Once you book, you’ll receive a welcome guide with all the details to prepare for your session. We’ll also have a pre-shoot consultation where we discuss your vision, styling, and any questions you may have. This experience is designed to be seamless, exciting, and completely personalized to you.
35Do you travel for your photoshoot?
Yes, we do trvek to your location if you prefer the comfort and privacy of your own pool. To ensure the best clarity in the water, there are a few simple guidelines we'll provide to make sure the pool is clean and ready for the shoot. Please note, there will be a travel fee tp cever transportation and setup costs.
36What should I bring with me?
Bring a swimsuit or nude undergarments to wear beneath any flowing fabrics. If you have a personal item you'd love to include (a special dress, a scarf, or a meaningful object), feel free to bring it! Also, a towel, water bottle, and a change of clothes for after the session will keep you comfortable.
37"Do you offer digital files or prints?
You’ll receive high-resolution digital files, perfect for printing and sharing. I also offer luxury print options, from fine art prints to custom albums, to transform your portraits into tangible works of art. Your images deserve to be displayed, not just stored on a screen.
38Do you shoot artistic nude sessions?
Yes! Fine art nude photography create some of the most elegant, empowering, and surreal images. Every session is handled with the utmost professionalism and artistry, ensuring you feel safe, confident, and celebrated.
39Can I do an underwater session if I have mobility challenges?
Yes! We work with muses of all abilities to create stunning, comfortable underwater portraits. If you have specific mobility concerns, let’s discuss how we can tailor the experience to make it enjoyable and accessible for you.
40"What if I need to cancel my session?
I understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel, please notify me as soon as possible. Deposits are non-refundable, but I’m happy to reschedule your session for another date within [timeframe]. My goal is to make sure you still get to experience this incredible journey.
41What makes Memoirs of a Muse different from other underwater photography?
This isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s a transformation. I don’t just capture underwater images; I craft dreamlike, emotional, and deeply personal works of art that reflect who you are in a way you've never seen before. Every session is tailored to tell your story, making it an experience as unique as you are.