This is a fun way to get unique photographs for your Christmas or holiday cards or just a fun memory for your photo album. The registration fee you paid to the West University Recreation Center, is a donation to the West University Recreation Center and the West University Parks Department.
This year’s event is scheduled for:
Saturday, 15 November 2014
from 10:00 – 3:00
at the West University Recreation Center Pool
To help you obtain the best photographs, we have some simple suggestions for you and answers to some frequently asked questions:
What should we wear?
You will be underwater so a swimsuit is a must. Santa will be in his holiday dive suit and you may also want to wear a sun shirt, rash guard, or wetsuit. You can wear a t-shirt but tight fitting shirts look the best underwater because they don’t trap air or “wave” on the way down. Some of the past participants have also worn fun hats or stocking caps like Santa and our elf. This is a fun photograph so please feel free to be creative.
What about my hair?
You do not have to do anything special with your hair, but girls and ladies with long hair might find a pony tail or braid easier to deal with underwater. The main thing is to try and keep your hair out of your face for the photograph.
How many people can we put in the photo?
We have a very wide angle lens so you can put your entire clan in the photo.
What about goggles?
The best photographs are done without goggles and masks because we can see more of your face in the photograph, however, if you feel more comfortable with your swim goggles, please feel free to bring them.
Can we have our photograph done using SCUBA?
Santa and the photographer will be on scuba so, yes, certified divers may have their photographs taken while using scuba. You will need to bring all of your equipment with you or rent some from Oceanic Ventures ahead of time. When using scuba, we try and take the photographs after the bubbles clear so it helps if you and your diving buddy can “synchronize” your breathing. The staff in the water will be there to help you.
What if my children are too young to go underwater with Santa?
While a lot of children are comfortable going underwater in their swim classes, we also understand that not everyone can do it. As such, we can take the photos with Santa on the edge of the pool using the swim steps.
How does this work?
After turning in the forms, our staff will help you get into the pool and explain how to obtain the best photograph. As such, you should be ready to get in the water. Basically, you and your family will hold your breath and go underwater next to Santa. Santa has an elf who’s job is to help you stay underwater. Once you get underwater, you want to hold your breath and look at the camera with a smile on your face. We will snap several photographs and then let you go up and catch your breath. We will generally take 2 or 3 series of photos just to make sure we get a nice one of you. Try and stay underwater as long as possible so we can get everyone into position.
Can I make an appointment?
We will try and accommodate appointments but as the day progresses, we have found that things sometimes back-up a little on the deck. The best time to get in and out of the water is right at 10:00 am, the start of the event.
Is there some paperwork to complete?
One of our staff members will greet you when you arrive. There is some paperwork to complete and children under eighteen (18) must have a parent or guardian sign their forms as well. If you will contact eric at oceanicventures.net ahead of time, he will send you the forms which will speed up the process at the pool.
When can I look at my photos?
The photos will be posted by Tuesday morning at www.squarerigphotography.com. When you come to the event, you will receive a gift certificate that you can apply to your purchase which is equal in value to a 5×7 print. The gift certificate can only be used once. The photographs will be available on-line until Christmas.
Can I buy more prints, holiday cards, etc?
You have a wide selection of photographic products available to you on the site including options for holiday cards. If you would like something special, we can also design a special card for you. Please contact Eric Keibler at eric at oceanicventures.net for more information on custom options.
What if I have other questions?
Please feel free to call Eric at 713.523.3483 or contact him by email at eric at oceanicventures.net.
