What is a Mermaid Photo Tour?
Have you heard of the popular Mermaid Photo experience, which has been gaining attention not only in Okinawa but also at beaches and tourist destinations around the world?
A Mermaid Photo session allows you to transform into a mermaid and have your pictures taken. Mermaids, legendary half-human, half-fish beings, have been told of in myths across the globe. Wearing a dazzling mermaid costume and posing against the backdrop of the beautiful ocean will make it seem as if a real-life mermaid has appeared from legend.
Most mermaid photo experiences come with a professional photographer who provides posing guidance and selects the best locations based on the time of day to ensure the most stunning shots.
Both children and adults can participate, but since costume sizes typically range from 100 cm to 180 cm, it is recommended to check in advance if you plan to bring preschool-aged children. Younger kids can also join wearing swimsuits or regular clothing.
This experience has become increasingly popular for taking family photos for New Year’s cards or capturing romantic wedding-themed pictures as a couple.
Mermaid Photo Experience on Okinawa’s Main Island
Originally gaining popularity overseas, mermaid photo sessions are now one of Okinawa’s top activities. Their ease of participation and the rise of Instagram culture have only fueled their popularity.
Okinawa boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect setting for mermaid photography. Some tours even combine this experience with other marine activities.
For instance, Marine Picnic Tours include a boat snorkeling session at the Blue Cave followed by a mermaid photo shoot as a final commemorative activity.
Additionally, there are special tours where you can actually enter the water wearing a mermaid costume. Most standard mermaid photo tours prohibit participants from entering the sea for safety reasons, but these specialized tours provide water-safe costumes and underwater cameras for a unique experience. While these underwater mermaid photo sessions tend to be more expensive, they offer an unparalleled opportunity to capture the most realistic mermaid imagery.
The Appeal of Mermaid Photo Tours Unique to Okinawa
Capture Stunning Photos in the Perfect Location
It goes without saying that Okinawa is home to some of the world’s most beautiful oceans. The emerald-green waters boast visibility of up to 20 meters, with vibrant coral reefs welcoming visitors. A photo shoot in this setting is guaranteed to be Instagram-worthy!
Local photographers know Okinawa’s beaches inside and out. They are well-versed in the best angles, lighting conditions, and scenic spots, ensuring that each session is carefully planned to capture the best possible shots.
A particularly recommended time for a shoot is during sunset. The stunning sunset views of Okinawa’s tropical paradise are truly breathtaking. As the sun dips westward, its golden light reflects perfectly on the ocean’s surface, creating a mirror effect that beautifully captures the sky and clouds. Dressing as a mermaid in such a setting will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight out of a fairytale.
Exclusive Group Photo Sessions
For those who want to perfect their mermaid shots, a private group tour is the best option, allowing for an extended, dedicated photo session.
Group size limits vary depending on the tour, but some can accommodate over 10 participants. While standard mermaid photo tours last about an hour, private group sessions provide additional time for costume selection, posing, and even drone photography coordination.
Many tours also offer the option to take photos not just with the professional photographer’s camera but also with your own smartphone or personal camera. Make sure to take advantage of this service!
A Perfect Memory for Girls’ Trips or Family Vacations
Compared to other marine activities, mermaid photo sessions take a relatively short amount of time, making them a great option for capturing a quick yet unforgettable memory. Why not end your Okinawa trip with a magical sunset mermaid photo shoot?