Water Sessions: Just do it!
- Beth Gilleon
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
What the hell is a "Water Session?"
If you've followed me for longer than a season, you know I go on and on about these portrait sessions. I could wax poetic about it; I could go on and on about the raw power of nature, the balance of force exhibited by this element that is at once life-giving and destructive. I could tell you about how water calls to and calms my turbulent soul, and that several times a year I drive to one of any number of lakes, streams, creeks in Ohio just to watch it in peace.
But let's face it: what you want from me is visual art! I'm a photographer, you're a fan (hopefully!), and the deal of our arrangement is that I make images that make you go, "Ooo!" Well, let me tell you, nothing "Ooo"s the shit out of me like these water sessions!
To be honest, there isn't much to them and that's part of the beauty of it. You show up, we do a couple of photos at the water's edge while we chat, and then with some gentle encouragement, I guide you in and let you just do your thing and enjoy yourself. If you want to splash and laugh, great; if you want to float around silently and let the sound of water in your ears block everything else in this noisy world, great! We can talk about you, me, or nothing at all. I'm going to hype the shit out of you though, because I'll be making incredible art throughout this time and getting really excited about it.
"OK Fine, I'm in - What do I wear for a water session?"
Deciding on what to wear for a portrait session can be so tough, but when it comes to water sessions, KISS: Keep It Super Simple. Yes, I know that's not what that acronym usually stands for but hey, I'm trying to win you over, here.
Basically, I advise people that earth tones are universally flattering, because they are. You want a fabric that is looser and flowy, rather than restrictive, because it'll be easier to move in and looks prettier when it's moving with the water. I would recommend solids over prints, because they tend to look good wet or dry, unlike some patterns. Most importantly though, pick something that makes you feel pretty and powerful!
How to book your own Water Session
You won't see these sessions see listed on my website, because they're so unique. Each one has its own location and vibe, and we'll build a water session based on your vision and what you want from the images at the end. That being said, these are accessibly priced, because I understand that their nature is different from other, "standard" portraits. You probably won't be using these for your work badge or sending them out to your parents on the holidays. Just send a message from my contact form and ask about creating a water session that is personal to you!
These are earthy, dreamy, life-affirming experiences that center you in a way we don't often get to do in a fast-paced world focused on productivity and end goals. Water changes the pace of a moment and pulls you into a very literal flow, where movement comes naturally and you can grant yourself a moment to savor.

















These are magical!