Bali’s pristine ocean waters have always sparked wonder and imagination. But when a group of creative visionaries, mermaids, and underwater artists gathered here for something truly magical, the sea transformed into a stage of dreamlike beauty. Hosted at Bali Dive Resort, this Bali mermaid photo shoot retreat brought together world-class talent, a diverse dive team, and awe-inspiring locations — setting the scene for a week of enchantment, artistry, and unforgettable memories.
At the heart of this experience was the partnership with Submerge Underwater, led by the extraordinary underwater photographer Justin Lutsky and the remarkable professional mermaid and coach Abbey Blake. Their collaboration brought an entirely new dimension to Bali’s underwater world, mixing technical expertise with artistic flair in ways that captivated everyone involved. Read more about their nforgettable underwater modeling adventure in bali here.
From the very first meeting, it was clear this retreat wasn’t just another photo event — it was a creative odyssey. Participants arrived eager to explore, to push boundaries, and to capture the kind of imagery that only exists in dreams. Bali Dive Resort became the hub of operations — a welcoming space where creativity, comfort, and community came together.
Our resort’s dive team played a pivotal role from day one. With members from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and diving experiences, the team embodied the spirit of adaptability. Whether supporting seasoned underwater talents or assisting adventurous newcomers, they could tailor their approach to suit every individual’s level of comfort and need. Their ability to read the room — and the reef — ensured that every mermaid, model, and underwater artist felt supported as soon as they stepped in the water.
This diversity wasn’t just about different languages or training backgrounds; it was about emotional intelligence and fluid teamwork. Our dive team didn’t simply guide; they connected. They anticipated needs, adapted plans on the fly, and ensured every moment under the surface was as safe as it was inspiring.
Photographer and cinematographer Justin Lutsky is nothing short of a visionary. With a background in underwater filmmaking and photography that spans continents, his lens doesn’t just capture images — it tells stories. The compositions, lighting, and technical mastery evident in every shot speak to his ability to see beauty where others might only see blue water.
For this retreat, Justin’s role went beyond snapping photos. He coached participants on how to express themselves underwater, how to work with light and motion, and how to embrace the unique challenges of shooting in open ocean conditions. His presence created a learning environment where participants felt inspired and empowered — whether they were veteran models or first-time underwater performers.
If Justin shapes the visual narrative, Abbey Blake shapes the movement within it. Known professionally as “The Everyday Mermaid,” Abbey is a classically trained dancer, seasoned freediver, and underwater performer whose expertise helped elevate this retreat beyond the ordinary.
During the retreat, Abbey led mermaid coaching sessions that focused on fluidity, breath control, and expressive motion. Her background as an underwater talent coach was invaluable, especially for participants learning to move with grace beneath the surface. Abbey’s presence was both grounding and empowering — she helped turn nervous anticipation into confident expression, enabling each participant to feel like a true mermaid in their own right.
One of the unique aspects of this retreat was the intentional selection of dive sites designed to bring out the best in every shot. Bali offers an incredible variety of underwater scenery — from vibrant reefs teeming with life to the dramatic contours of the USAT Liberty shipwreck.
Our dive team, in collaboration with Justin and Abbey, carefully chose locations that would enhance each session’s artistic goals. Whether it was the open, sun-lit reef walls that allowed for soft, ethereal imagery, or the moody, iconic shipwreck that lent itself to dramatic storytelling, every location was chosen with purpose.
The Liberty shipwreck, in particular, became a star of the retreat. Its haunting silhouette and intricate coral growth provided a breathtaking stage for tail-clad mermaids to swirl, drift, and perform — resulting in images that were both surreal and profoundly beautiful. The team’s knowledge of currents, lighting conditions, and marine life ensured that every dive was safe, productive, and respectful of the fragile environment.
What truly set this retreat apart was not just the stunning photos or the expert instruction — it was the shared sense of transformation. Participants reported a deep connection not only to the art they were creating, but also to each other and to the ocean itself.
People left with incredible portfolios, yes — but they also left with confidence, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for what’s possible when creativity meets community. For many, mastering underwater movement and photography wasn’t just a technical achievement — it was a personal breakthrough.
Hosting this Bali Mermaid photo shoot retreat was more than an event — it was a testament to who we are as a team and a destination. Our dive crew’s adaptability and warmth made it possible for creatives from around the world to bring their visions to life with ease.
From tailoring support to individual needs, to choosing stunning dive sites, to ensuring every participant felt seen and safe, this retreat showcased our ability to meet guests exactly where they are — and elevate their experience far beyond expectations.
At Bali Dive Resort, we don’t just dive — we create, adapt, and inspire.
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