Meet Kimber Greenwood | Florida’s Underwater Portrait Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimber Greenwood and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimber, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
When I first started in photography, I was told that in order to run a successful and sustainable business, I had to shoot everything. “The most successful photographers are generalists” was something that I heard often. And I tried, I really did. But some types of sessions just didn’t resonate with me and I didn’t feel that it was fair to me or my clients to keep forcing what didn’t feel authentic.

When I discovered water sessions, something just clicked within me and I knew that I had found my passion. I still offer select other types of photoshoots (maternity, boudoir, adventure elopements, and commercial shoots), but I also offer all of those underwater as well. By becoming more of niche- or specialist- photographer, I’ve been able to brand myself as the industry expert and become a trusted name in my area.

If you’re a photographer who wants to specialize in an area, I would suggest that you do a lot of research and preparation first so that you can set yourself up for success and longevity. You can absolutely be successful and not photograph everything that comes your way. Follow your passion and it will be evident in your work!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am always excited about shooting underwater! I’m not sure exactly why, but I think it’s partly the challenge and partly the fact that the images always turn out different. Even if I shoot in the same location, with the same model, the images will never look identical. That’s part of the challenge and the beauty of it. Not only the ability to shoot underwater, but the ability to shoot underwater safely, is what sets me apart from others. I constantly use my background in Marine Biology, Nursing, and lifeguarding to make sure that my team and I are being as safe as we can be in the water. We have extensive protocols, training, and equipment for each shoot to ensure client safety and have found this enhances the images because it builds more trust with the clients and helps them relax.

I wouldn’t say that it was easy. These types of sessions require an immense amount of training and preparation to be done well, but they are 100% worth it. I am constantly seeking out more education, rounding out our safety protocols, and trying to keep growing in the area of underwater portrait photography.

If I could have a reputation for anything it’s that I want to be known for my commitment to safety and beautiful images that we capture underwater in our stunning Florida springs.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Gainesville, Florida, is a gem located in North Central Florida. Most people only know it from the University of Florida, but it holds so much more. In addition to being one of the cleanest air cities in the USA, it also holds a piece of magic that can be found nowhere else on the planet- the Florida springs. Our springs are the main source of drinking water in the USA and are one of the most beautiful places on Earth. When friends come to visit, I often take them to several different springs (because each one has it’s own individual personality), to Prohibition Pizza (the best gluten free pizza I’ve ever found), paddling on the Rainbow River (occasionally we are graced by an otter), and, of course, to Crystal River to see the manatees. There is so much more to Florida than just beaches and NASCAR- we have wild Florida, untouched by modern development with incredible finds around each twist in the river.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My partner of over 15 years, Will, has been instrumental in the success of my business. He was the first person I called after I completed my first ever water shoot and told him that I finally found my calling, and he’s supported me ever since. I don’t think I would have nearly the level of success in my business without his support- from him helping me on the backend of my business, cooking dinner countless nights, doing school pickup, etc. He is just a truly supportive partner in every sense of the word.

Website: https://waterbearphotography.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/waterbearphotography

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimber-greenwood-882059288/

Facebook: https://facebook.com/waterbearphotographyllc

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/waterbearphotography

Image Credits
Charity Grace
Jules Maue
Headshot Image: Kristi Sherk