A Canadian photographer has broken the Guinness World Record for the deepest underwater model photoshoot, capturing stunning images at nearly 50 metres (163.38 ft) on the deck of the Hydro Atlantic shipwreck in Boca Raton, Florida, USA.
In depth beyond the decompression zone, the Hydro Atlantic was a challenge, but photographer Steven Haining knew he had conquered this record not once, not twice, but thrice as he set this ambitious project with such daring attempts.
Haining initially set records in June 2021 and September 2023 when photographing at the depths of 21 feet and 30 metres, respectively. However, his feat was outdone in December 2023 by fellow Canadians Kim Bruneau and Pia Oyarzun in the Bahamas. They shot a photoshoot at 131 feet deep. With a desire to regain his title, Haining and his team took up this extreme underwater challenge.
Serious Training for Extreme Depths
To ensure the shoot’s success and safety, Haining’s team underwent extensive preparation. Model Ciara Antowski participated without an oxygen tank, adding complexity to the project. She wore a flowing white gown paired with black boots, creating a striking contrast against the underwater backdrop.
A scheduled 20 minute photo shoot is shortened to just 15 because the pressure itself threatens narcosis, a known side effect in high-pressure. It was complicated with rust spots coming from a wrecked ship and interference caused by fishermen plus a shark habitat to be sure Antowski has an easy go during the shotting process.
Watch here:
Sharks and Wonderful Shots
During a reconnaissance dive, the team encountered two sharks. Haining posted about the experience on Instagram, writing, “We spooked away the sharks and found a safe spot on the wreck for the shoot.”
Looking back on the record-breaking achievement, he told Guinness World Records, “We practised more than planned and arrived in good weather. After scouting the wreck, we knew exactly what to do, and everything was perfectly set.”
This terrific photoshoot not only shows how problematic it can be to photograph underneath water, but also how much perseverance and work it takes to acquire this enormous record.