commercial news
An underwater record of pride and joy By Joanne Slaughter
ABOVE: The fast cameras can capture plenty of images very quickly. Puddle Pics
SPLASH! asked Joan Slaughter to explain how underwater photography can add to the child’s swimming lesson experience. Underwater photography is one of the most exciting events swim schools can offer their customers and staff.
“Smaller siblings, who may not be as confident swimmers, benefit from the time they spend with their older sibling having photos taken.” After nine years in the business, the most rewarding part of the job is the interaction with the children and encouraging them to swim the best they ever have. Time and time again parents are amazed at what their child can do in front of a camera. You can 64
SPLASH!
October/November 2020
feel the joy and pride poolside as parents watch and record this very special event. Puddle Pics has developed a style of underwater photography that goes beyond just getting the kids to pose underwater. We offer swim schools a fun alternative activity for the children to apply their swimming skills and develop confidence. The opportunity to engage with the camera often stretches children to new skill levels. Paddling independently, opening their eyes underwater without goggles or swimming better than they have shown their instructor are just some examples. There is nothing more rewarding than a toddler coming up from the water with a big smile on their face shouting: “Mummy I did it, I did it!” I remember the time a little boy five years old had refused to put his eyes in the water. Both his mother and instructor said I would not be able to photograph him. As he watched his other classmates getting photos, I could see his curiosity grow. I turned to him and asked: “Are you going to have a go?” Before you knew it, he was paddling underwater and had the biggest smile on his face. His mother was